The GCRO hosts Wits student volunteers

The GCRO recently introduced the Visiting Scholar Programme. Six students from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg - Amogelang Pule, S’hlengiwe Ndebele, Thulani Ramotsoka, Katlego Teu, Siduduziwe Mpho Motaung and Sihlosokuhle Zwane - volunteered themselves to take on several tasks at the GCRO. They conducted the Quality of Life Pilot training to test the QoL 7 questionnaire.

The visiting scholar volunteers in one of the GCRO's board rooms

In their role as visiting scholars, the students enthusiastically embraced the chance to act as student research assistants, focusing primarily on a QoL 7 survey pilot. This involved coding qualitative datasets and meticulously testing and refining the survey questionnaire to ensure its clarity for participants before the commencement of data collection. Despite encountering challenges, the experience was exceptionally rewarding for them. Along this journey, they gained invaluable insights into qualitative data analysis and the nuances of coding qualitative data. Their skillset expanded to include data management and analysis, notwithstanding the fact that it was a new venture for them. The students quickly adapted to these tasks and found great satisfaction in working with data, witnessing its capacity to address research queries and recognizing how its findings could impact policy decisions. Moreover, their time at the GCRO provided them with the opportunity to cultivate professionalism in a workplace setting.

The journey of genuine research within a professional setting was an enjoyable and enlightening experience for the visiting scholars. They accumulated extensive knowledge about research and data analysis, all while collaborating with seasoned researchers. Contributing to a research project with a global impact was a source of immense gratification. Their understanding of research and data analysis grew substantially as they learned to conduct research, gather and scrutinize data as well as craft research papers. Additionally, they honed their academic abilities by collaborating with seasoned researchers and actively contributing to research endeavours.

Their resounding recommendation goes out to anyone intrigued by the world of research. Volunteering as a student research assistant emerges as an outstanding means to garner valuable experience and delve into the realm of research. It is an endeavour that promises both challenges and rewards. Above all, the scholars extend their heartfelt gratitude to the GCRO for the invaluable opportunity to serve as student research assistants, a journey that enriched their knowledge and left them with cherished memories.

Five of the Wits University student volunteers with the GCRO's Executive Director (Rashid Seedat) and Administrative Officer (Naledi Ngwenya)