Dr. Ani continues to advance her commitment to research excellence and capacity development through active participation at workshops and conferences. During the Glotan–Durban University of Technology Joint Conference on Climate Change and Economic Management for a Sustainable Future, held in Durban, South Africa, Dr. Ani facilitated a capacity-building session titled “Writing Grant-Winning Proposals,” designed to equip academics, early-career researchers, and development practitioners with practical skills for securing competitive research funding.
The session addressed the growing need for high-quality, fundable research proposals capable of responding to complex global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development.
Dr. Ani’s presentation provided participants with a structured approach to grant writing, emphasizing strategic alignment with funders’ priorities, clarity in research problem formulation, and methodological rigor. She also offered practical insights into budgeting and justification, dissemination planning, and common weaknesses that often undermine otherwise promising proposals.
Key thematic areas covered during the session included:
Pre-Proposal Planning: Understanding eligibility criteria, aligning research ideas with donor priorities, and adhering to timelines.
Proposal Structuring: Clearly articulating research motivation, objectives, methodology, and expected contributions.
Budget Development and Justification: Ensuring coherence between project activities and financial plans.
Common Pitfalls in Grant Writing: Identifying and avoiding frequent causes of proposal rejection.
Responding to Rejection: Building resilience and effectively incorporating reviewer feedback into revised submissions.
A major highlight of the session was the emphasis on resilience in the grant application process. Drawing on professional experience, Dr. Ani encouraged participants to view rejection as part of scholarly growth and a pathway to improved funding success.
The session was highly interactive, with participants actively engaging in discussions and sharing lived experiences of grant writing challenges. Feedback from attendees highlighted the session’s practical orientation, mentorship-driven approach, and relevance to contemporary research funding landscapes.
Dr. Ani’s participation in this international conference reflects her ongoing dedication to strengthening research capacity, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and supporting scholars to produce impactful, fundable research that contributes to sustainable development outcomes.
If cities could tell stories, Boston would whisper its tales gently – through its chilly November breeze, its busy train stations, and the warm heartbeats of the people who pass through it. This year, my visit to Boston became much more than a conference trip; it transformed into a tapestry of friendship, curiosity, culture, and countless little moments that stitched themselves into memory.
A City That Greets You With Both Wind and Warmth
Boston’s weather in November dances between crisp cold and soft sunlight, the kind that wakes you up gently but insists you wrap your scarf a little tighter. Every morning, the air smelled of roasted coffee beans drifting from cozy cafés tucked between historic brick buildings. I became loyal to the city’s coffee shops far too quickly – coffee cups always warming my hands, and, more importantly, warming my spirit. Chicken wraps, fresh vegetable bowls, and the comforting rhythm of fellow commuters made every meal feel like a pause in the rush of discovery.
Trains, Long Walks, and the Poetry of Movement
The train rides – oh, the train rides – became my daily meditation. From Hynes Convention Center to various spots, I took a long walk that stretched into the night, the city lights providing company. The sidewalks were alive with conversation, laughter, and that familiar hum of a place that refuses to sleep. Boston teaches you how to think while walking, how to breathe between footsteps, and how to appreciate the small silence that comes when the wind brushes past your ears.
The Harvard Glow
A visit to Harvard was like stepping into a living postcard. Its lawns, even in the cold, carried an unmistakable academic charm – the kind that silently reminds you of the dreams you’re nurturing. Each building felt like a guardian of centuries of ideas, and even the fallen leaves seemed scholarly.
Harvard had a hum in the air – an almost spiritual seriousness mixed with an inviting curiosity. As I walked through Harvard Yard, I noticed a small crowd gathering around the famous statue of John Harvard, the so-called “Father of Harvard” and a symbol of academic destiny for thousands of visitors.
Almost instinctively, everyone reached out to touch the statue’s foot – a ritual said to bring good luck, intellectual clarity, and scholarly breakthroughs. It was fascinating to watch people from all over the world, speaking different languages, share this single moment of reverence, each with their own silent wish.
And of course, I joined them.
With a quiet smile, I stepped forward, placed my hand on the polished bronze foot, and let myself soak in the meaning of the gesture. The metal was cold, but the symbolism was warm – standing there, touching the foot that countless dreamers before me had touched, I whispered my own prayer for good fortune, wisdom, and elevation in my academic journey. It felt almost sacred. A brief but powerful moment of connection – with the past, with the present, and with possibilities yet to unfold.
Harvard does that to you. It makes you believe more deeply in what you are capable of.
Giving Back: A Noon at Kennedy High School, Somerville
One of the most grounding and joy-filled parts of my trip was volunteering with the NGO Kids in Tech at Kennedy High School in Somerville. Stepping into the classroom felt like stepping into a world buzzing with possibility. The learners were not just energetic – they were sharp, curious, imaginative, and wonderfully alive with questions that poured out faster than we could answer.
They were the kind of kids who remind you why the future is bright.
Their eyes sparkled with curiosity, the kind that comes from genuinely wanting to understand the world – not just memorise it. They asked thoughtful questions about technology, culture, and the places I had travelled from. Many of them shared their own dreams too: becoming engineers, scientists, coders – dreams so big they seemed almost too large for the room, yet perfectly fitting for their minds.
There was also a beautiful playfulness in the way they learned. One moment they were racing to complete a robotics challenge, and the next, they were laughing loudly at inside jokes, teasing each other with the kind of camaraderie that only young, confident learners share. Their ability to balance seriousness with fun, focus with creativity, and discipline with joy was truly refreshing.
What struck me most was how effortlessly smart they were – not just academically, but emotionally and creatively. They worked in groups, supported each other, debated ideas, and celebrated every little victory with full enthusiasm. In their presence, learning didn’t feel like an obligation; it felt like an adventure.
Being with them reminded me that showing up, even for a short time, can create ripples in ways we may never fully see. They made me hopeful. They made me smile. They made me believe deeply – again – in the power of nurturing young minds.
And as I walked out of the school building that day, I carried their laughter, their dreams, and their bright energy with me like a warm souvenir.
Warm Plates, Warmer Connections
What is travel without food – without the flavors, aromas, and small sensory surprises that shape your memories as much as the places and people do?
In Boston, food became one of my quiet companions. From the steady rhythm of my daily coffee runs to the comforting familiarity of warm meals on cold days, each bite told a story. I discovered cafés where the baristas greeted you like an old friend, and where the smell of freshly brewed coffee wrapped itself around you like a gentle morning hug. Every sip seemed to nudge my energy into motion, preparing me for the conference-filled days ahead.
Then there were the wholesome vegetable bowls – vibrant, colorful, beautifully arranged. They made me feel, in the best possible way, like a responsible adult nourishing both body and intention. Crisp greens, roasted vegetables, tangy dressings – they tasted like wellness in a bowl, the kind that resets your day and reminds you that balance is a quiet form of self-care.
But one of the most heartwarming food moments was my visit to a Nigerian restaurant – one that felt like stepping into a pocket of home carved out in a foreign city. The spices embraced me instantly: the familiar warmth of pepper, the richness of stew, the aroma of well-seasoned meat; flavors that whispered, You are home, even here. I could almost hear the sounds of kitchens back in Nigeria, the laughter, the storytelling, the sense of belonging that only certain meals conjure so vividly.
We had fun. I couldn’t but capture a short video that expresses the bliss of the moment.
Boston, without trying too hard, served both nostalgia and novelty – meals with colleagues that fed my heart, comforted my soul, and reminded me that food is not just nourishment but a form of memory-making layered with social connection, shared stories, and quiet moments of belonging. And I embraced every dish wholeheartedly, savoring each moment as its own little joy.
An Embrace to Remember: Meeting the GSA President
At the GSA meetings, the warmth was not just from the heating vents but from the people – colleagues, mentors, and strangers who soon became friends. Yet one moment stood out in a way I did not expect.
The President of the Gerontological Society of America welcomed me with such genuine kindness – an amiable, heartfelt hug that instantly dissolved the monotony of long flights, cold winds, feelings of alone-ness and conference bustle. It wasn’t a formal, distant greeting; it was a gesture of openness, humanity, and true collegiality. In a field where titles and credentials often tower over personalities, her warmth felt like an invitation – not just into the conference, but into the wider family of gerontology scholars.
That embrace said something powerful about her leadership.
It reflected a leadership grounded in accessibility, empathy, and connection – qualities that are often spoken about but rarely practiced with such sincerity. She led not from behind a podium, but from a place of shared humanity. She embodied the idea that great leaders do not create distance; they create belonging. Her hug, simple as it was, symbolized the climate she has cultivated in GSA: one where emerging scholars feel seen, welcomed, and encouraged.
That brief moment, captured in my memory alongside my official GSA headshot, became a defining symbol of the professional connections, mentorship, and friendships strengthened at the conference. It reminded me that leadership is not merely about guiding an organization – it is also about lifting people, one warm gesture at a time.
Art That Got Away
My attempt to visit the Boston Museum of Fine Arts turned into a story of its own – the doors were closed, but the building itself stood like a monument of imagination. Even without stepping inside, I felt enveloped by the quiet dignity of art waiting behind the walls.
Despite this failed attempt to see the Museum, I felt ready to return to the familiar streets of Medford Square. Confidently, I boarded the 96 Harvard Square bus only to realize, halfway through the ride, that something was off. The streets looked different. The shops were unfamiliar. I heard my spirit whisper to me that I was in a wrong bus and I found myself laughing at my mistake – I had boarded the 96 to Harvard square instead of Medford Square.
Here I was, returning from a temple of art which I could not see, only to find myself driven to the streets of Harvard by accident. Somehow, it felt appropriate: the universe had decided that even a trip home deserved a touch of improvisation.
By the time I corrected course and finally arrived back where I belonged, the museum visit felt even richer despite not getting to see the arts, but for the story I had collected on the way back: a little detour, a lot of laughter, and a reminder that sometimes the most memorable moments happen when you take the “wrong” turn.
Colleagues, Laughter, Stands, and Midnight Conversations
The GSA exhibitions buzzed with innovation and ideas. I wandered from stand to stand, absorbing conversations, shaking hands, taking photos with colleagues – both old and newly met. Some were long-term contacts I had not seen in years; reconnecting with them felt like returning to chapters I had once paused.
Evenings turned into dinners, and dinners turned into bowling nights with faculty and colleagues from universities across the U.S. Laughter spilled across the bowling lanes as easily as the clattering of pins. Those moments reminded me that academic journeys are not only about papers and presentations – they are about people.
The Open Road: New York, New Jersey and Maryland
In the midst of conferences and commitments, I embraced the spontaneity of road trips – to New York, New Jersey and later to Maryland. The highways stretched like long silver ribbons, carrying stories, music, and laughter. New cities, new skylines, but the same spirit of adventure.
A Journey That Stays With You
Boston was cold, yes—but it warmed me in the ways that mattered.
In the friendships built, the quiet moments stolen between events, the hugs exchanged, the art longed for, the students inspired, the coffee savored, and the miles travelled by train, road, and foot.
This trip reminded me that professional journeys are deeply personal ones too. And sometimes, the most meaningful parts of a conference happen outside the conference hall – on train rides, over shared meals, through unexpected hugs, and across long wintery walks.
And oh, how could I forget these two angels – Omotola and Bunmi – whom circumstance led me to, and who became a gentle reminder that some connections are divinely timed. In their laughter, kindness, support and presence, I found warmth, ease, and the kind of companionship that turns unfamiliar spaces into moments of home. They made my stay a gentle story of laughter, warmth, and unexpected friendship, one I will carry with me long after the journey ended. My trip became softer, brighter, and deeply memorable, turning moments into lasting memories and an unfamiliar city into a place of warmth and belonging.
In a rapidly evolving digital world, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a defining force in how research is conceived, developed, and disseminated. Recognizing this, the African Scholars Mentorship Network (ASMN) under the DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), in collaboration with C-SET (Centre for Socially Engaged Theatre), University of Regina, and Mobile Research Lab, hosted Episode 2 of its Bootcamp 6.0 series on “Leveraging AI for Credible Research Writing.”
The virtual session, held on November 2, 2025, featured two dynamic facilitators — Dr. Chinwe Igiri, Acting Director, ODeL at Mountain Top University, and Dr. Judith Ani of Walter Sisulu University, South Africa — with Prof. Evans Osabuohien, Chair of DIaDeRC, serving as host.
Exploring AI’s Role in Research
AI is reshaping every phase of the research process — from brainstorming and literature synthesis to data analysis and grant writing. As Dr. Judith Ani emphasized in her presentation, “AI can serve as a co-thinker, assistant, and collaborator — not a replacement.”
The session unpacked how postgraduate students and emerging scholars can use generative AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance clarity, structure, and efficiency in research writing. However, participants were cautioned against blind reliance on AI outputs, which may contain fabricated data or hallucinated citations.
Balancing Innovation with Integrity
A recurring theme in the discussion was academic integrity. Dr. Ani noted that “Full disclosure is required — hidden or unverified AI use amounts to academic misconduct.” Scholars were encouraged to always document which AI tools they use, the purpose, and how outputs were verified.
Key ethical practices highlighted include:
Disclosing the AI tool, version, and use case in the methodology or acknowledgments section.
Verifying all AI-generated claims and cross-checking references.
Maintaining human oversight and disciplinary grounding.
Avoiding plagiarism or mechanical writing that lacks originality.
AI Misuse and Cautions
Dr. Ani presented real-life cases illustrating AI misuse. In one instance, a lawyer in New York faced penalties for submitting fake AI-generated citations. Another involved a professor who wrongly failed students based on ChatGPT’s false confirmation. These cases underscored AI’s lack of a truth filter and the necessity of human verification.
Using AI Smartly
Participants were guided on prompt engineering — crafting precise and contextual prompts that yield relevant outputs. Dr. Ani demonstrated how researchers can use AI to refine research questions, improve clarity, and structure grant proposals, but always rewrite in their own voice and retain contextual insight.
Practical tips included:
Keeping a log of AI prompts and outputs.
Using AI for clarity, not content creation.
Discussing AI use openly with supervisors and collaborators.
What Funders Are Saying
Dr. Ani also shared insights from funding agencies that have begun flagging overly AI-generated proposals. Funders reportedly favour authenticity, conceptual depth, and contextual relevance over polished but shallow writing. The key takeaway: AI fluency does not equal research credibility.
Final Reflections
The session closed with a compelling reminder from Dr. Ani: “AI won’t replace you, but someone who uses it well might.” Participants were urged to balance efficiency with integrity, always disclosing and validating AI-assisted outputs. The Bootcamp reaffirmed ASMN’s commitment to nurturing responsible and innovative African researchers who can harness technology ethically and effectively.
At Girls Secondary School, Ngwo, Enugu State, a remarkable awareness event unfolded—one that empowered over 250 young girls with critical knowledge and confidence to confront and challenge Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Organized by the Education and Research for Sustainable Development (ERSD) supported by Due Process Advocates (DPA) and the Heroine Women Foundation, the programme was a beacon of advocacy and education.
At the forefront of this initiative was Dr. Judith I. Ani, Executive Director of ERSD and a leading voice in gender rights and research-based advocacy. Her vision to educate, protect, and inspire action against GBV brought together a team of experts and advocates who addressed the root causes, consequences, and actionable solutions to this pervasive issue.
Understanding the Urgency
Gender-Based Violence remains a critical human rights issue with far-reaching consequences. Beyond the physical harm, GBV diminishes a victim’s self-worth, triggers psychological trauma, and can lead to depression, self-harm, and social isolation. The campaign stressed that freedom from violence is not a privilege—it is a fundamental human right. Participants were introduced to the causes of GBV, which include: Drug and substance abuse, Emotional frustration and depression, Unemployment and poverty, Harmful cultural ideologies, Paedophilic attitudes, etc. The facilitators also explored the various forms of GBV, such as: Sexual violence, Physical violence, Emotional and psychological violence, Economic and cultural violence, and so on. Real-life examples, including rape, domestic abuse, sexual harassment, and intimate partner violence (IPV), were discussed to deepen understanding and promote early detection and reporting.
A Multi-Voiced Movement
Joining Dr. Ani were voices like Barr. Emeka E. Ugwuonye, Founder and CEO of Due Process Advocates, and Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Chukwu Joy Mamah, Executive Director of the Heroine Women Foundation. Barr. Ugwuonye, affectionately referred to as the “digital daddy,” encouraged the girls to recognize their rights and the strength of their voices. Hon. Mamah delivered a powerful session on reclaiming self-confidence and navigating personal empowerment in the face of adversity. Another highlight was the inspiring presence of Onyii Eziallor, whose delivery created an atmosphere of awakening and personal discovery for the participants. Her engaging talk encouraged the girls to envision a future free from fear and filled with possibility.
Dr. Ani emphasized that addressing GBV requires a comprehensive approach:
Strengthening laws and policies
Raising awareness of women’s rights
Providing institutional redress and support
Mandating male involvement in prevention and advocacy
By increasing the social and legal consequences for perpetrators and promoting shared responsibility, society can take significant steps toward eradicating GBV.
A Lasting Impact
The awareness programme did more than educate—it inspired. It planted seeds of resilience and advocacy among young girls, reinforcing the role of education as both shield and sword in the fight against gender-based violence. Through initiatives like this, ERSD and its partners are building a generation of empowered girls ready to challenge harmful norms and lead with purpose. Dr. Judith I. Ani’s leadership continues to pave the way for meaningful, research-informed interventions that promote safety, dignity, and justice for all.
DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA – February 24, 2025 – At the Glotan–Durban University of Technology Joint Conference on Climate Change and Economic Management for a Sustainable Future, Dr. Judith Ifunanya Ani, delivered one of the most engaging and impactful sessions of the event. With her extensive background in research and grant writing, Dr. Ani facilitated a session titled “Writing Grant-Winning Proposals,” equipping participants with practical strategies and fresh perspectives on how to secure competitive funding for high-impact projects.
The conference itself brought together a diverse mix of academics, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners, all focused on tackling the twin challenges of climate change and sustainable economic growth. Within this context, Dr. Ani’s session stood out as particularly timely—emphasizing that good research ideas alone are not enough; without strong proposals and effective grant-seeking strategies, valuable innovations often remain unfunded and unrealized.
Breaking Down the Essentials of Proposal Writing
Dr. Ani structured her facilitation around the key building blocks of a successful grant application, guiding participants step by step through the process:
Pre-Proposal Planning: She emphasized the importance of preparation before even beginning to draft, including understanding eligibility requirements, carefully aligning projects with funder priorities, and paying close attention to timelines and submission deadlines.
Structuring the Research Proposal: She unpacked the critical elements of a compelling proposal—articulating the motivation behind the study, framing clear and answerable research questions, presenting a sound methodology, and highlighting the project’s contribution to existing literature.
Budgeting and Justification: Beyond ideas, funding agencies look for feasibility. Dr. Ani explained how to develop a well-structured, realistic budget that aligns with project goals, and how to justify costs in ways that demonstrate accountability and strategic planning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: From vague objectives to misaligned priorities, she highlighted the pitfalls that often lead to rejection, offering practical advice on how to spot and correct these errors.
Dealing with Rejection: Perhaps the most inspiring part of her session was the emphasis on resilience. She shared from personal experience how even strong applications sometimes face rejection and reminded participants that unsuccessful attempts should be treated as stepping stones rather than dead ends.
Building Resilience Through Rejection
One of Dr. Ani’s strongest messages was about changing the way researchers think about rejection. Instead of viewing it as failure, she encouraged participants to see feedback from funders as a resource. “Every rejection carries within it the seed of a stronger proposal,” she shared, noting that persistence and the willingness to adapt are often what separate successful grant winners from those who give up too soon. This message resonated deeply with participants, many of whom openly shared their own struggles and frustrations with past applications.
An Interactive and Collaborative Session
Far from a one-way lecture, the session was highly interactive. Participants engaged actively, asking questions, sharing their experiences with grant writing, and reflecting on the barriers they had faced. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and mutual learning. Attendees expressed appreciation for Dr. Ani’s approachable teaching style, her ability to break down complex processes into simple, actionable steps, and the use of real-world examples drawn from her own journey as a researcher and mentor.
Several participants commented that the session demystified grant writing for them—transforming what previously felt like a daunting process into one that is manageable, structured, and, with practice, achievable. By the end of the workshop, many left with renewed confidence and practical insights they could immediately apply to their current and future projects.
Strengthening Research Capacity for Sustainable Impact
Dr. Ani’s contribution to the conference extended beyond technical training—it reflected her broader commitment to capacity building within the academic and research community. By equipping researchers with the tools to write stronger proposals, she is also helping to unlock resources that can fuel innovative solutions to pressing challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and community resilience.
Her facilitation aligned seamlessly with the goals of the conference: fostering collaboration, enhancing research excellence, and ensuring that ground-breaking ideas are not lost due to lack of funding. In doing so, she reinforced her reputation not just as a researcher, but as a mentor and advocate for sustainable impact in Africa and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As participants continue to apply the lessons learned from her workshop, the ripple effects of Dr. Ani’s facilitation are likely to be felt long after the conference. Stronger proposals mean more funded projects, and more funded projects mean greater opportunities to address the urgent social and environmental challenges facing communities today.
Her session was more than a technical training—it was a call to action, reminding researchers that persistence, preparation, and strategic communication are key to turning ideas into impact.
In taking on this role, Dr. Judith Ifunanya Ani not only strengthened the skills of fellow scholars but also underscored her own commitment to advancing research excellence, sustainability, and mentorship within the academic world.
In a resounding testament to academic collaboration and capacity building, the workshop titled “Grant Writing, Winning, and Rewardable Scholarly Career in Africa”—held at Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) on February 15–16, 2024—brought together some of the brightest minds in African research. Co-organised by TASUED and the DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC), the event hosted over 80 scholars from various public and private institutions, all converging to sharpen their skills in research, grant acquisition, and academic development.
Among the facilitators who left a lasting impression was Dr. Judith I. Ani, a respected qualitative researcher and passionate academic leader affiliated with Inspire World Foundation. Dr. Ani played a pivotal role in the workshop’s success, leading a specialised session on qualitative research methods that offered participants a deep dive into the intricacies of design, data collection, and analysis.
With clarity and warmth, Dr. Ani guided participants through the often complex terrain of qualitative inquiry, illustrating how narratives, interviews, and grounded theory approaches could be employed to uncover rich, contextual insights—particularly within African communities. Her session not only demystified qualitative research for early-career academics but also reinforced its value in tackling pressing societal issues, such as gender inequality, community health, and education.
The two-day workshop was enriched by contributions from prominent speakers and facilitators, including Prof. Evans Osabuohien (Chair of DIaDeRC), Prof. Samuel Ekundayo (Director of Research at TASUED), and Olasubomi Obadeyi of Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), who addressed research ethics and communication. It also featured a high-level engagement from public officials, notably the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology in Ogun State, Prof. Abayomi A. Arigbabu, and TASUED’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oluwole Sikiru Banjo.
Dr. Ani’s interactive approach allowed participants to explore real-world research scenarios, refine their methodological choices, and receive personalised feedback. Her facilitation underscored the critical role of qualitative research in grant-winning proposals—emphasising depth, context, and the human element behind data.
The workshop concluded with practical breakout sessions, where scholars presented concept notes in thematic groups, receiving expert feedback from facilitators like Dr. Ani. Many participants described these sessions as transformative, with several now actively collaborating in research teams formed under the new TASUED-DIaDeRC Community.
As the event drew to a close, the atmosphere buzzed with newfound confidence and camaraderie. Certificates were issued, media houses like NTA and Nigerian Tribune captured the moment, and facilitators like Dr. Judith Ani were celebrated for their role in shaping a new generation of African scholars.
This workshop not only showcased the synergy between institutions like TASUED and DIaDeRC but also affirmed the power of mentorship and methodical research training—areas where Dr. Ani continues to lead with expertise and inspiration.
In alignment with the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this outreach event sought to address the critical need for education for a sustainable development. Recognizing the alarming statistic that six out of 10 children fail to reach basic education due to a learning crisis, our initiative aimed to reshape perceptions of education among young minds. We believe that education should not be viewed as a daunting task but rather as a gateway to opportunity and growth. To instill this perspective, we organized an outreach event targeting over 500 beneficiaries, with the primary focus on projecting education as a catalyst for development and equipping children with essential skills for the future.
Objectives and Approach:
The core objective of our outreach was to expose children to the indispensable skills required for their holistic development, including critical and creative thinking, teamwork, resilience, and effective communication. Understanding that traditional classroom methods may not fully address these needs, we decided to utilize sport, specifically football, as an innovative entry point. Football, with its universal appeal and inherent values, serves as an effective tool for instilling important life lessons such as teamwork, respect, honesty, and resilience. By integrating football into our educational outreach, we aimed to create a fun-filled experience with lasting impact.
Implementation and Impact:
The outreach event unfolded with various engaging activities designed to blend education with sport. Through interactive sessions, children were encouraged to explore the parallels between football and life skills. They learned the importance of teamwork, the value of perseverance in the face of challenges, and the significance of mutual respect both on and off the field. Beyond physical health benefits, the event also fostered the development of psychosocial skills and leadership abilities among participants.
Moreover, the outreach served as a platform to emphasize the critical role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting gender equality. By instilling a passion for learning at a young age, we aspire to pave the way for a future where both boys and girls have equal opportunities to lead dignified lives. The event concluded with a renewed sense of enthusiasm among participants, as they embraced the transformative power of education and sport.
Conclusively:
Our outreach event successfully merged the principles of education, sport, and sustainable development to empower over 500 children with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. By leveraging the universal appeal of football, we were able to instill valuable life skills while promoting the importance of education for long-term prosperity. As we reflect on the impact of this initiative, we remain committed to fostering a generation of empowered individuals who are equipped to create positive change in their communities and beyond.
Gender-based violence (GBV) poses a significant global threat to human rights, public health and attaining the Sustainable Development Goals. There is a growing emphasis on researching to identify issues and understand the experiences of women relative to GBV. The increasing demand for policymakers and public health practitioners to adopt evidence-based approaches in addressing GBV highlights the need for research prioritization on experiences of GBV among women in resource-limited settings such as sub-Saharan Africa. This paper explored GBV among women in 25 sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries to identify and present key intervention priority areas for addressing GBV in these settings.
Methods
The study involved a cross-sectional analysis of a nationally representative dataset from the Demographic and Health Survey of 25 SSA African countries. Data was analyzed descriptively and inferentially using the Pearson chi-square (X2) at a p < 0.05.
Results
Findings revealed that women aged 25–29, living in rural areas and with primary education were at a significant risk of experiencing GBV across 25 SSA countries. A notable 44.94% of women reported experiencing at least one form of GBV, with the prevalence varying by country. Women in Comoros had the lowest reported prevalence (10.76%), while Sierra Leone women had the highest (60.27%), followed by Uganda (56.92%). Emotional and physical violence were most prevalent in Sierra Leone, while sexual violence was most common in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Discussion
This study highlights the urgent need for targeted …
A mega rally was organized to enhance ongoing sensitization efforts aimed at increasing the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The initiative was implemented by Education and Research for Sustainable Development (ERSDI) under the leadership of Dr. Judith I. Ani, in partnership with the International Vaccine Access Centre (IVAC), Direct Consulting and Logistics Nigeria (DCL), National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Women Advocates for Vaccine Access (WAVA), and the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN). The event was supported with funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, through Johns Hopkins.
The campaign was strategically planned to coincide with a major market day in order to reach a broad and diverse audience. Market days typically attract large crowds, including traders, buyers, and visitors from various areas, offering an effective platform for public health engagement. The primary objectives of the rally were to increase public awareness about the importance of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer, address widespread myths and misconceptions about the vaccine, encourage vaccination among girls aged 9 to 14, and advocate for its integration into routine immunization schedules.
Activities began in the morning hours with a courtesy visit to a traditional leader whose community hosts one of the major markets targeted for the rally. The leader expressed strong support for the vaccination campaign and commended the efforts of the organizers, noting the relevance of the rally in reaching a wider population. Sensitization activities were conducted across two major markets, beginning with one and proceeding to the other, which is widely known for its extensive commercial activity and segmented trading zones, including those for automotive parts, electrical goods, timber, building materials, and general merchandise. The presence of many women involved in trading in these markets provided an important opportunity to address female audiences directly.
With the support of market leadership and key executives, the sensitization team conducted outreach across various sections of the markets. Informational materials were shared, and discussions were held with traders and customers to provide accurate information about the HPV vaccine. Misconceptions were actively addressed, and the campaign generated excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Mass Administration Campaign (MAC).
The rally was considered successful, having reached a large number of individuals and fostered greater understanding and acceptance of HPV vaccination. The event also highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration in public health initiatives. In addition to the primary partners, ERSDI acknowledged support received from the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), MWAN Anambra State Chapter, MWAN National Maternal & Child Health Committee, market leaders, and supportive local businesses including St. Joseph Cakes and Events and Kenan MultiLinks.
The mega rally served as a key mobilization effort to promote HPV vaccine uptake and cervical cancer prevention. It demonstrated the effectiveness of community-centered strategies and reinforced the need for ongoing collaboration between health authorities, civil society organizations, and local stakeholders in addressing public health challenges.
Links to media coverage of the event, pictures of newspaper publications
In a quiet corner of Udi Local Government Area, Enugu State, a powerful conversation unfolded—one that has long been overdue in rural communities across Nigeria. On August 28, 2021, over 200 men and women from Ngwo gathered for a health sensitisation and awareness outreach that tackled two silent killers: breast and prostate cancer.
The outreach, led by Dr. Judith I. Ani and supported by multiple local and international partners, was not just another community programme. It was a deeply personal, interactive, and educational encounter that sought to break myths, dispel fear, and promote early detection.
A Community-Centered Approach
This outreach was rooted in the belief that health education should be inclusive, accessible, and tailored to the realities of underserved communities. From the outset, community stakeholders were actively involved. Their support was instrumental in mobilising participants and ensuring materials were translated into local languages to improve understanding and engagement.
It wasn’t just about raising awareness—it was about empowering people with knowledge. Discussions focused on understanding risk factors, early signs, and the importance of regular screening. The session also addressed long-held misconceptions and encouraged open dialogue. For many, it was the first time they were hearing accurate, context-relevant information about these diseases.
Action Beyond Words
What made this outreach remarkable was the move from talk to tangible action. Fifteen women underwent free Clinical Breast Examinations (CBE) conducted by medical professionals. Among them, five were found with suspicious lumps and were referred for further medical evaluation. These moments underscored the power of timely intervention and the life-saving potential of community health initiatives.
There were challenges, of course. A scheduled guest speaker from out of state couldn’t make it due to travel disruptions, and some religious sensitivities led to a few women opting out of the physical exam. But even these hurdles highlighted the importance of culturally respectful health interventions and the need for more female medical practitioners in such efforts.
Partnerships that Powered the Impact
The event’s success was made possible by a strong network of partners, including Inspire World International Foundation, BRECAN, LAPO, Niola Cancer Care Foundation, and Jasons Health Organisation, among others. These organisations provided technical, financial, and human resource support that brought the vision to life.
A particularly heartening endorsement came from the office of the Local Government Chairman, whose representative not only attended but expressed interest in replicating the programme across other wards. This shows the growing recognition of grassroots health initiatives as critical tools for public health.
The Journey Ahead
This outreach was not a one-off event. It’s a stepping stone toward more robust, sustainable community health engagement. Plans are underway for a “Pink October” digital series, featuring voices of breast cancer survivors, medical professionals, and public health experts. Additionally, efforts are being made to formally register the initiative, expand its outreach, and secure funding to ensure continuity.
At the heart of it all is a simple but powerful mission: to save lives through education, early detection, and community empowerment.
Because in places like Ngwo—and indeed across Nigeria—awareness is not just the first step. Sometimes, it’s the only chance someone has.
