Emerging researchers gathered from 20 – 22 January 2026 at Blue Marlin Hotel for an engaging Pedagogy of Supervision Workshop facilitated by Professor Gabriel Kabanda. A three-day programme dedicated to strengthening postgraduate supervision practices. Designed specifically for early-career academics and new supervisors, the workshop provided a comprehensive exploration of what constitutes effective and exemplary postgraduate student supervision.
The workshop focused on equipping participants with practical tools, supervision models, and shared experiences to enhance their supervisory approaches. Through dynamic and interactive sessions, attendees explored strategies for managing the postgraduate supervision process more effectively, from proposal development and ethical clearance to thesis completion and examination preparation.
A key highlight of the programme was its emphasis on the supervisor-student relationship. The facilitator guided discussions on communication styles, expectation management, feedback mechanisms, and navigating common challenges that arise during the supervision journey. Participants engaged in case studies and scenario-based learning, allowing them to reflect critically on their own practices while learning from peers.
One participant reflected on the immediate impact of the workshop, stating:
“I will now be able to answer more efficiently and I will be able to try minimise issues that students can encounter during defence.”
As institutions continue to prioritise research excellence and student throughput, initiatives like this workshop demonstrate a strong commitment to strengthening supervisory capacity and supporting emerging researchers in their professional development.
