SWIS x CMU Research Training Program
SWIS Africa is partnering with Carnegie Mellon University to offer a research training program to build the research communication capacity and confidence of African women in science by equipping them with relevant skills in scientific research presentation, personal branding, and storytelling through digital media.
The program targets Female STEM students and early-career researchers at Carnegie Mellon University Africa and across Africa as well as Young African women aspiring to pursue STEM, policy stakeholders, and broader public audiences interested in women in science.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE PROGRAM?
1. Capacity-Building Workshop A one-day hybrid (or in-person) session in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University Africa, featuring:
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4 Expert Speakers:
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2 on Scientific Research: Methodology, ethics, writing & publication tips.
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2 on Presentation Skills and Personal Branding: Effective public speaking, storytelling, LinkedIn optimization, digital confidence.
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Panel Session & Q&A: To engage attendees in dynamic, interactive discussions with the speakers.
2. Train-the-Trainer Research Showcase
Following the workshop:
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10 students (female) from Carnegie Mellon University Africa (Data Science and IT Departments) will be selected based on interest and ongoing research projects.
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These students will receive focused training on:
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Crafting short, impactful presentations.
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Vlogging techniques for science communication.
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3. Content Creation and Public Engagement
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Each of the 10 trained students will be interviewed and recorded while presenting their research in an engaging format.
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The videos will be edited and uploaded on the SWIS Africa YouTube Channel, amplifying their voices and making research more accessible to younger audiences
The activities will be achieved in a span of four weeks in the following order'
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Week 1– Planning and outreach
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Week 2 and 3 – Training event and selection of research presenters
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Week 4– Vlogging training, content production, and publication
PROGRAMS OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED OUTCOMES
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To provide foundational training in scientific research and presentation skills to women in STEM in order to Increase awareness and confidence among participants to share and present their research.
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To create a platform that amplifies the voices of women in STEM by showcasing their work on the SWIS Africa YouTube channel to strengthen the visibility and engagement for women researchers across Africa.
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To train student researchers to serve as peer-trainers and content creators, contributing to the sustainability of the initiative.
