SSDS to Host Proposal Development Seminar
By Dr. Benard Lango, Lecturer & Coordinator Postgraduate Research, SSDS
The Department of Social Sciences and Development Studies (SSDS), FASSc, will host a virtual research proposal development webinar on Thursday, 29 October 2026, aimed at equipping students with the knowledge and practical guidance needed to develop well-structured academic research proposals. The webinar, scheduled to run from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon via Google Meet, will bring together students proceeding to the proposal development stage of their academic programmes. The session is designed to strengthen students’ understanding of the essential components of a research proposal and provide guidance on developing coherent, methodologically sound, and academically grounded research projects. The programme will begin with opening remarks by Dr. Mary Mutisya, Head of Department, Social Sciences and Development Studies, followed by a series of presentations addressing the key chapters of a research proposal. Mr. Benard Ndonga will lead the session on Chapter One, focusing on the background of the study. Dr. Violet Simiyu will guide participants through Chapter Two, covering theoretical frameworks and literature review, while Dr. Jennifer Wangari will facilitate the session on Chapter Three, which focuses on research methodology. These sessions will provide students with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of how to contextualize a research problem, engage relevant scholarly literature, establish an appropriate theoretical foundation, and select suitable research methods for their studies. The webinar will also feature a question-and-answer session, allowing participants to seek clarification from the presenters on various aspects of proposal development. Dr. Benard Lango, who will serve as host and facilitator, will lead the general guidance session and closing remarks before the event concludes with a closing prayer. The initiative reflects the department’s commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey by strengthening their research competencies and promoting scholarly inquiry. Developing a strong research proposal is an important step towards producing credible research that contributes to knowledge, informs policy, and addresses challenges affecting society. Through this initiative, SSDS continues to encourage a culture of academic excellence and research, preparing students to undertake meaningful scholarly work that responds to contemporary social and developmental issues. Under the guiding theme, “Research Today… Development Tomorrow,” the webinar underscores the importance of sound research foundations in shaping informed scholarship and contributing to sustainable development. Event Details Event: Proposal Development Webinar Date: Thursday, 29 October 2026 Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon Platform: Google Meet Target audience: Students proceeding to proposal development Organizing department: Social Sciences and Development Studies, CUEA