Cambridge-Africa Postgraduate Research Symposium 2023
On Wednesday 21st of June 2023, Cambridge-Africa hosted a university-wide postgraduate research symposium for scholars from the African continent at Hughes Hall. The afternoon consisted of a range of presentations and flash talks by MPhil and PhD scholars from different departments, often focusing on multidisciplinary approaches.
A plenary talk by Dr Gabriel Okello, a Research Associate at Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, kickstarted the symposium. Using his experience, Dr Okello provided an insightful look at integrating research into policy, something that many scholars aim to achieve throughout their degrees and in their career.
This was followed by three sessions of student presentations, focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM); politics & social justice; and education. The audience and presenters were extremely excited by the diversity of topics covered by students. Some commented on how impactful the research could be, not just for the African continent, but for the whole world. The symposium gave scholars a glimpse of research that aligned with their own and an opportunity to exchange ideas with peers.
To reflect the drive and passion that many scholars have beyond academia, three presentations were on their social ventures, ranging from increasing the accessibility of music among their community, to improving the mental health of young people and supporting working mothers. This segment evoked an emotional response from the audience, as it delved into challenges faced by many students, or their friends and families.
The afternoon was rounded off by another emotional moment for the Cambridge-Africa team, as the winner of the Dr Amit Bhasin Prize 2023 was announced, with Amit’s wife and mother joining in the audience. This prize was awarded to MPhil student, Inioluwa Afolabi. She offered to use her prize money to contribute to the mentorship scheme run by the African Society of Cambridge University (ASCU), increasing support for fellow African applicants to study at the University of Cambridge. A very generous and heart-warming offer.
Later, everyone proceeded to celebrate the success of the day with a BBQ overlooking the cricket grounds. Although interrupted by the fire alarm right before food was served, everyone was satisfied and grateful to hear about the contributions that students are making through their fascinating research.
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