Date : March 11-12, 2025
Venue : La Falaise Hotel, Yaoundé-Cameroon

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Background

Africa faces multifaceted challenges that require innovative solutions grounded in science and technology. However, the continent’s contribution to global scientific output remains disproportionately low. With 12% of the world’s population, Africa accounts for less than 1% of global academic publications, significantly limiting its influence on scientific progress.

Scientific writing and publication are fundamental to advancing research, ensuring credibility, and fostering global collaboration. The quality and quantity of published works often determine researchers’ career progression, peer recognition, and access to critical funding. Yet, the limited representation of African researchers as first authors, even in studies centered on African issues, highlights significant gaps in capacity and opportunity. These challenges stem from inadequate training in scientific writing, a lack of mentorship opportunities, and insufficient resources for young researchers. Addressing these gaps is essential to positioning Africa as a leader in scientific innovation.

The Nkafu Policy Institute, a leading think tank of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation, is committed to empowering young African researchers. Through this 3rd edition of the Scientific and Manuscript Writing Course, we aim to enhance participants’ skills in scientific writing, foster confidence in the publishing process, and improve the dissemination of high-quality research.

 Objectives

The Scientific and Manuscript Writing Course seeks to:

1. Equip young African researchers with advanced scientific writing skills.
2. Strengthen participants’ ability to effectively communicate research findings.
3. Foster a network of mentorship in scientific writing and publication.
4. Instill best practices in ethical publishing and research integrity.

 Expected Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will:

• Master the principles of writing high-quality scientific manuscripts.
• Gain practical strategies for publishing in high-impact journals.
• Understand ethical guidelines and best practices for scientific publication.
• Build confidence to lead as first authors and co-authors in global research.
• Be part of an active mentorship network supporting ongoing professional growth.

 Target Audience

The course is tailored for:

• Master’s and PhD students.
• Early-career researchers and professionals in academia and related fields.

 Participation Requirements

To attend, participants must pay the applicable training fees:

• Students: XAF 15,000 (or XAF 20,000 for late registrations)
• Early-career researchers and professionals: XAF 30,000 (or XAF 35,000 for late registrations)

Participation is capped at 25 individuals, with sponsorship opportunities available for select candidates.

 Payment: Once selected, participants can pay via Mtn Mobile Money, Eventbrite, cash, bank transfer or credit card (VISA, MasterCard, and PayPal). All bank charges and commissions are the responsibility of the participant. On-site payment is not allowed.

The participation fee includes:

• Certificate of participation
• Admission to all workshop sessions
• A printed copy of all event materials
• Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• The final event report (electronic version)

 Program Format and Date

Dates: March 11-12, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Mode: In-person at La Falaise Hotel, Yaoundé, Cameroon

Course Content

The curriculum is designed to offer comprehensive training on key aspects of scientific writing and publication:

1. Introduction to Scientific Writing
   • Understanding the structure of scientific papers (IMRAD format).
   • Key elements of effective writing: clarity, precision, and coherence.
2. Mastering the Art of Scientific Communication
   • Writing compelling abstracts and summaries.
   • Developing impactful research titles and keywords.
3. Referencing Systems and Reference Management
   • Overview of major referencing styles (APA, MLA, Vancouver, etc.).
   • Using reference management tools (e.g., Zotero, EndNote, Mendeley).
4. Navigating the World of Journals
   • Identifying suitable journals for your research.
   • Understanding journal metrics and impact factors.
5. Conducting and Writing Systematic Reviews
   • Overview of systematic review methodologies.
   • Writing reviews that contribute to evidence-based research.
6. Grant Proposal Writing
   • Crafting persuasive research proposals.
   • Identifying funding opportunities and developing budgets.
7. Ethical Publishing Practices
   • Understanding plagiarism and avoiding common pitfalls.
   • Authorship criteria and conflict of interest disclosures.
8. Research Dissemination Strategies
   • Leveraging open-access platforms and repositories.
   • Promoting research through social media and academic networks.
9. Workshop: Peer Review Process
   • Understanding how the peer review process works.
   • Responding to reviewer feedback effectively.
10. Practical Writing Sessions

Guided manuscript writing exercises with faculty feedback.

Evaluation and Follow-Up

To measure the program’s effectiveness:

• Participants will complete a satisfaction survey at the end of the course.
• Annual assessments will track participants’ publication records and research impact.

Selection Process and Timeline

• November 27, 2024:             Online application opens.
• February 14, 2025:                   Application deadline.
• March 4, 2025 :                      Late registration deadline
• February 17 – March 5, 2025:           Review and selection of successful applicants.
• From February 21, 2025:                 Notice and announcement of selected candidates.
• March 11 – 12, 2025:           Scientific and Manuscripts Writing Course in Yaoundé.

Course Faculty Members

1. Dr. Denis Foretia
2. Dr Constantine Ashangwa
3. Dr Ronald Gobina
4. Dr Odette Kibu
5. Dr Rondi Kauffman
6. Mr Wilfred Ngwa
7. Dr Ignatius Esene
8. Dr Fabien Sundjo
9. Dr Landry Nfonsam
10. Dr Fuein VeraKum
11. Desmond Jumbam
12. Dr Jean Cédric Kouam
13. Dr Nadege Fackche
14. Prof Simplice Asongu

About the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation

The Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyze Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship, science and technology innovation, public health, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation partners with local governments, policymakers, private enterprises, civil society organizations, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs, farmers, and small business owners, improving individual livelihoods.

About the Nkafu Policy Institute

 The Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent, in-depth, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free, fair, democratic, and sustainable economies. The Institute’s team of analysts, experts, and researchers works on governance and democracy, health and education, peace and security, science and technology, and economic policy.

Contacts

Questions related to the organization of this event can be sent to:

Ms. Solange Dabou                                                    

Health Policy Analyst                                                 

Division of Health Policy and Research,

Nkafu Policy Institute

[email protected]

 Nkafu Policy Institute

P: (+237) 222 31 15 84 / (+237) 654 86 72 54 www.nkafu.org