Capacity Building Workshops
Skill development sessions and training to enhance research methods and innovation capabilities for young scientists
The Young Scientists Association successfully hosted a professional webinar titled Scientific Paper Reviews on 23rd April 2026. The session was designed to strengthen the research capacity of students and early-career scientists by focusing on the essential skills of scientific writing and literature review.
Speaker
The webinar featured Dr. Ousman Bajinka, Senior Lecturer and Researcher at the University of the Gambia. Drawing on his academic and research experience, Dr. Bajinka delivered a structured and practical presentation aimed at equipping participants with the foundational competencies required for high-quality scholarly work.
The session addressed the core principles of clear, precise, and structured scientific communication, including the conventions that underpin effective academic writing.
Participants were guided through systematic approaches to literature appraisal, the distinctions between different review formats, and best practices for producing rigorous and credible evaluations of scientific literature.
In an era of rapidly expanding scientific literature, the ability to critically evaluate and clearly communicate research findings is fundamental to scientific progress. This webinar provided young scientists with actionable knowledge to improve the quality of their manuscripts, strengthen their peer-review skills, and enhance overall research literacy.
The Scientific Paper Reviews webinar reflects the Young Scientists Association’s ongoing commitment to professional development, knowledge sharing, and the advancement of early-career researchers. By focusing on practical scholarly skills, the Association continues to support the next generation of scientists in producing credible, high-impact research.
Young Scientists Association
Advancing knowledge • Fostering collaboration • Empowering future scientific leaders
The Young Scientists Association (YSA), in collaboration with the African Pharmaceutical Network (APN), hosted a professional development webinar on “Mastering Interviews: How to Get Ready for Interviews Effectively.” The session was designed to equip young scientists, students, and early-career professionals with practical skills and confidence to perform effectively in academic, professional, and career-related interviews.
The webinar focused on practical approaches to interview preparation, responding to common interview questions, effective communication, and making a strong and lasting impression. Participants were guided on how to approach interviews strategically and present their skills, experiences, and professional potential with confidence.
Key Areas Discussed included
-Preparing effectively for interviews
-Understanding and responding to common interview questions
-Building confidence during interviews
-Communicating skills and experiences effectively
-Making a positive and lasting impression
-Practical strategies for improving interview performance and
Professional presentation and interview etiquette.
The session provided an interactive platform for participants to gain practical career-development skills and insights from experienced professionals, helping them better prepare for employment, academic, fellowship, and other professional opportunities.
The webinar reflected the Young Scientists Association’s commitment to empowering young scientists and early-career professionals through mentorship, professional development, knowledge sharing, and access to career-building opportunities.
The webinar featured:
Dr. David Odhiambo — Executive Director, African Pharmaceutical Network (APN) and
Vivian Awuor Atieno, PMP — Capacity Building Officer, International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE)
The Young Scientists Association (YSA) hosted an engaging webinar on “Securing Scholarships”, aimed at equipping students and young professionals with practical knowledge and strategies for identifying, preparing for, and successfully applying for scholarship opportunities.
The webinar brought together experienced scholars and researchers who shared valuable insights on crafting competitive scholarship applications, developing strong personal profiles, preparing effective statements of interest and motivation letters, and avoiding common application pitfalls.
Participants also had an opportunity to learn about available scholarship programmes and gain practical guidance on how to strengthen their applications and improve their chances of securing funding for further education and professional development.
Key Areas Discussed included
-Crafting a winning scholarship application
-Building a competitive academic and professional profile
-Preparing effective statements of interest
-Writing strong motivation letters
-Common scholarship application pitfalls and mistakes to avoid
-Identifying and accessing available scholarship opportunities, and
Practical strategies for improving scholarship applications.
The webinar provided an important platform for knowledge sharing, mentorship, and career development, particularly for students and young scientists seeking opportunities to advance their education and professional careers through scholarships.
The session featured insights from:
Michael Midenyo — Program Lead, St. Louis, Missouri
Rose Catheru — PhD Student, The University of Glasgow
Jimmy Nkaimuatei — AMR Champion and Researcher, Zihi Institute.
The event demonstrated the Association’s commitment to empowering young scientists and students through mentorship, professional development, access to opportunities, and knowledge sharing.
