The Walter Sisulu University Directorate of Research Development and Innovation (DRI) has developed an Academic Mentoring and Coaching Framework aimed at fast tracking the acquisition of critical high-level research skills by its emerging researcher cohort.
Upon identifying a notable lack of critical skills pertaining to research, teaching and other aspects of the academic endeavour, DRI found it crucial to institute a programme that would link inexperienced researchers with adept mentors.
DRI Senior Director, Professor Wilson Akpan said that the mentoring and coaching framework’s aim is to empower emerging scholars to function effectively and achieve heightened confidence in their academic positions.
“Our Framework provides guidance on how WSU can utilise mentoring and coaching as a key mechanism for giving effect to the pursuit of individual and institutional excellence, as demanded by the University’s Vision 2030,” said Akpan.
Professor Akpan also added that it was imperative for an institution like WSU to have a well-designed mentoring and coaching programme, which would foster a culture of excellence and high levels of productivity among emerging scholars.
“We are convinced that an effective mentorship programme can support the setting of personal and career goals, advise on strategies to work towards those goals, and provide the support to ensure goal achievement,” said Akpan.
After several mentors and mentees showed interest in the framework, a workshop spearheaded by DRI’s Professor Kariena Strydom and Dr Anthony Masha was held to prepare interested parties for the mentoring process. The workshop was facilitated by Dr Johan Van der Merwe, an experienced facilitator in the area of mentoring and group dynamics.
“The mentees are guided in various areas of research for their Master's and PhD studies. They also receive guidance in terms of writing for publication. The insights given by mentors to mentees add immense value to the entire programme since mentees receive impactful information and advice that they would otherwise not get elsewhere,” said Dr Masha.
Further workshops targeting mentees, as well as joint sessions featuring mentors and mentees are in the pipeline. Masha encouraged WSU to make use of this framework, as it would assist them to achieve their research goals.
Professor Akpan also asserted that WSU, under the leadership of new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rushiella Songca, would invest resources in research and innovation capacity development to bring to fruition its vision of an impactful, technologically infused African University.
- Yanga Ziwele