AFRICA POLLING INSTITUTE (API) CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP FOR DISABILITY-BASED CSOS

Africa Polling Institute (API) organized a capacity building workshop for disability-based CSOs in collaboration with Ford Foundation. The workshop aimed to equip the organizations with research skills, proposal drafting and effective communication. HAPI team was represented by Ms. Jovkyundan Mercy.

The training was designed to provide the participants with 12 modules to research. These modules included research conceptualization for advocacy, terminologies in the disability space, developing literature reviews, designing research methodology, developing research protocols, data collection, disability data collection approaches and tools, data processing and analysis, report writing, infographics/illustrations as a tool for advocacy, communication dissemination of research findings, and developing a disability inclusive proposal.

The workshop started by emphasizing the need for disability-based organizations to engage in research to better understand the issues affecting people with disabilities in their communities. The participants were encouraged to use the research findings to advocate for their rights and improve their well-being.

The training covered a wide range of topics from research conceptualization to proposal development. Participants were taken through the process of developing a research question, literature review, and research methodology. The workshop also provided an opportunity for the participants to learn about data collection approaches and tools, including how to use interviews and surveys effectively.

The participants also learned about data processing and analysis, which included data cleaning, coding, and analysis. The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to practice report writing, which is an essential aspect of research. The workshop also covered the use of infographics and illustrations as a tool for advocacy, and how to disseminate research findings effectively to reach a broader audience.

Finally, the workshop covered developing a disability-inclusive proposal. The participants were shown how to develop proposals that take into account the needs of people with disabilities. They were also taught how to communicate their proposals effectively to funding agencies.

At the end of the workshop, the participants were presented with certificates of participation. The workshop was a great success, and the participants were equipped with the necessary research skills to carry out their work effectively. The capacity building workshop provided an opportunity for disability-based organizations to improve their research skills and engage in evidence-based advocacy, which is essential for improving the lives of people with disabilities.