CRAFS is proud to share that two of our interns, Agatha Chituwa and Florence Tina Mwalwanda, recently participated in the African Doctoral Academy (ADA) Winter School, held from 7th to 12th July 2025 at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS) in Stellenbosch, South Africa.

The Winter School brings together emerging African researchers for advanced academic and research training. Agatha and Florence were enrolled in a short course titled “Statistics Revisited: All You Need to Know to Successfully Analyze and Present Your Data,” facilitated by Prof. Catherine Comiskey from Trinity College Dublin. The course offered intensive training in statistical methods, research study design, and critical thinking.

Throughout the week, the interns gained practical skills in SPSS, T-tests, regression analysis, and designing statistically sound research. These skills are directly relevant to their current master’s research, both of which focus on data-driven approaches to addressing challenges in agriculture and water systems. The course emphasized hands-on learning, with participants applying statistical techniques to their own research topics.

In addition to the technical training, the experience provided a valuable platform for networking with fellow researchers from across Africa. The inclusive learning environment, combined with Prof. Comiskey’s motivational guidance including the powerful reminder to "just keep going" despite challenges left a lasting impact on the participants.

Florence and Agatha expressed their gratitude to CRAFS and the University of Malawi for the continued support in their academic journeys. The knowledge and exposure gained from this Winter School will contribute meaningfully to their research work under CRAFS and to their broader professional development as early-career scientists.

We look forward to seeing how they apply these new skills and insights in advancing CRAFS’s mission to support innovative, evidence-based solutions for sustainable development in Malawi and beyond.