Building qualitative research capacity in the global health workforce and developing a community of practice in parts of sub-Saharan Africa: a case study.

backgroundQualitative research offers unique insights into the lived experience of individuals with chronic conditions which can tie directly into public health priorities and identifying the need for additional support. More participatory approaches and qualitative data surrounding chronic diseases are needed in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Valuable “insider” insights are often missing as the conceptualisation of research often overlooks the value of such interactions. For successful and meaningful global health research, it is imperative to involve in-country experts and strengthen the capacity of research teams with qualitative skills.

methodsTo address this, two hybrid qualitative research skills workshops were conducted in West Africa (Ghana; with virtual attendees from Nigeria) and East Africa (Kenya; with virtual attendees from Tanzania and Ethiopia) to deliver training and develop support networks as part of the ‘Transforming Parkinson’s Care in Africa’ research project. Both workshops were conducted over two days and involved presentations, discussions, and activities to ensure attendee interaction, while providing a comprehensive overview of qualitative research.

resultsMaterials were developed by facilitators, drawing on an experience of teaching qualitative methods and supporting research development in the UK, and doing qualitative research in SSA. Fifty-eight healthcare professionals and researchers attended the training. Following the training, short-term improvement was noted in self-rated knowledge and skills, with positive qualitative feedback from attendees. To ensure a lasting impact of the training, a community of practice has been established to provide continual support and mentorship to attendees. Five perpetual qualitative software licenses were also purchased for use by attendees and their teams to facilitate collaborative analysis of TraPCAf data and allow access beyond the duration of the project.

conclusionsThere is a desire to develop qualitative research skills among researchers and healthcare professionals in SSA. This case study offers an example of how such training can be developed and delivered. To continue these learnings forward, a community of practice has been formed to ensure longer-term impact, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the qualitative research capacity of the public health workforce across SSA. This is enacted through continual engagement and mentorship of workshop attendees and addressing financial barriers to success by funding software access for individuals.