The Unit social science researchers-built capacity in effective qualitative data analysis through an in-house training focused on good data practice for qualitative management and analysis. The training groomed social scientists with expertise in conducting study designs, empirical ethics, qualitative data collection, and analysis. 

Social scientists from the MENISCUS study built confidence, skills, and knowledge using Nvivo, an industry-leading qualitative analysis software. 

“Our social scientists were empowered with skills to analyse data crucial in writing research papers for peer reviews that will contribute to health policy and practice in Uganda, regionally, and globally.”

Dr. Catherine Kansiime, MENISCUS Project Leader

The training combined theoretical knowledge with methodological skills through group tutorials and discussions to provide a directly practical and integrated tool for international health research. 

MENISCUS is a part of the Unit’s robust social aspects across the health course programme. MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit is one of the few institutions in Africa with a dedicated social science programme embedded since the Unit’s inception, linking virology and epidemiology to human behaviour and evolving to address needs in vaccine and non-communicable research in a focused manner that responds to some of the most pressing health challenges in Uganda, regionally and globally. Over the last 35 years, the programme’s innovative and informative work with adolescents living with HIV, young migrants, sex workers, fishing communities, people living with disabilities, and older people has contributed to policy development and practice.