On 23rd July 2025, the All-Africa Students Union (AASU) held an in-house capacity-building training on Qualitative Research Methods and Desk Research Methods for its staff, National Service Personnel (NSPs), interns, and volunteers. This session forms part of a broader series of research-focused trainings aimed at strengthening the organization’s internal capacity to deliver high-quality, evidence-based programs and advocacy.
The training provided participants with practical, hands-on skills in key areas such as developing robust research proposals, crafting impactful policy briefs, and applying qualitative research techniques to real-world challenges. Emphasis was placed on how research can be strategically leveraged for effective policy development, targeted advocacy, and informed decision-making that aligns with AASU’s mandate of empowering Africa’s youth.
Participants also explored best practices in desk research, including literature reviews, data synthesis, and the use of credible sources to support policy recommendations. The goal was to ensure that every member of AASU’s human resource team is well-equipped to contribute to research outputs that are both academically sound and socially impactful.
The session was expertly led by Bismark Amefianu Kudoafor, AASU’s Chief Technical Officer, whose extensive experience in research and policy development provided participants with valuable insights and actionable techniques.
By investing in continuous learning and skill-building, AASU is reinforcing its commitment to becoming a leading youth-driven policy think tank in Africa—one that can influence change through solid research and evidence-based advocacy.
#AASU #CapacityBuilding #QualitativeResearch #PolicyMaking #YouthEmpowerment #ResearchTraining #EvidenceBasedAdvocacy
