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Current Research Projects
AFRIB is actively engaged in a variety of research projects across Africa, all guided by our Pan-African lens and commitment to promoting positive social change. Here are some highlights of our ongoing research initiatives
Health Literacy
investigates the effectiveness of culturally adapted interventions in raising mental health awareness and promoting help-seeking behaviour in rural communities across some African countries.
Life Skills Learning
explores the impact of integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) programs into early childhood education (ECE) curriculums across West Africa.
Addressing Substance Abuse
explores the factors contributing to youth substance abuse in a specific urban setting within a major African city.
1. Promoting Mental Health Literacy in Rural Communities
(Multi-Country Study)
Project Focus: This multi-site study investigates the effectiveness of culturally adapted interventions in raising mental health awareness and promoting help-seeking behaviour in rural communities across three African countries (e.g., Ghana, Kenya, South Africa).
Pan-African Lens: The research employs local storytelling traditions and utilizes community radio for dissemination, ensuring cultural relevance and accessibility. Traditional healers and community leaders are actively involved in the project design and implementation.
Expected Outcomes:
- Develop culturally appropriate mental health literacy materials.
- Evaluate the impact of SEL programs on children's social-emotional development, including emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and prosocial behaviour.
- Advocate for the integration of SEL into national ECE policies in West African countries.
2. Enhancing Life Skills and Social-Emotional Learning in Early Childhood Education
(Regional Study)
I
Project Focus
This research explores the impact of integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) programs into early childhood education (ECE) curriculums across West Africa. The project is being conducted in collaboration with regional research institutions and ECE providers.
II
Pan-African Lens
The research team is adapting existing SEL programs to consider specific cultural norms and child development practices within West Africa. Local languages are used in training and resource development.
Expected Outcomes:
- Develop culturally appropriate SEL curricula for ECE programs in West Africa.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions in reducing stigma and increasing help-seeking behaviour for mental health concerns.
- Advocate for the integration of SEL into national ECE policies in West African countries.
3. Understanding and Addressing Youth Substance Abuse in Urban Settings
(Case Study)
Project Focus
This case study explores the factors contributing to youth substance abuse in a specific urban setting within a major African city. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with focus group discussions and in-depth interviews.
Pan-African Lens
The research team is collaborating with local youth organizations and community leaders to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context surrounding substance abuse. The project seeks to identify culturally relevant prevention and intervention strategies.
Expected Outcomes:
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the factors driving youth substance abuse in the specific urban setting.
- Identify culturally appropriate prevention and intervention strategies that address the root causes of substance abuse.
- Inform local policy and community initiatives aimed at reducing youth substance abuse.