Building research foundations
SACEMA’s flagship short course, Introduction to Epidemiological Analysis, recently concluded a successful week of training, equipping participants with essential skills in epidemiological thinking and data analysis. Designed for students, researchers, and public health professionals, the course combined rigorous academic content with hands-on application, delivering a dynamic and impactful learning experience.
This one-week intensive course, 07-11 April, introduced foundational concepts in epidemiology alongside practical data management and visualization using R. The programme was developed by SACEMA to address the growing demand for analytical skills in public health, disease surveillance, and research. It blends two training tracks:
- Introduction to Epidemiology and Research Methodology: Study design, bias, causation, and scientific communication
- Introduction to Data Management with R: Cleaning, transforming, exploring, and visualizing data using tidyverse tools
Dr Jo Barnes led the epidemiology component with clarity and depth, while Dr Larisse Bolton and Ms Zinhle Mthombothi facilitated the R training with energy and real-world application.
Participants engaged with real-world case studies, learned to critically appraise research methods, and explored the epidemiological reasoning behind public health decisions. This year’s cohort included Master’s and PhD students, government researchers, SACEMA policy modelling fellows, and early-career academics from across the continent. The hybrid format – offered both in-person and via Microsoft Teams – enabled wide participation while maintaining interactive and high-quality instruction.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Highlights include:
- Improved understanding of study designs and research ethics
- Practical experience in R for data analysis and reporting
- Engaging lectures and relatable examples from the field
- Increased confidence in critically evaluating epidemiological research
Participants noted the presenters’ approachability, responsiveness, and deep expertise as major strengths.
“The course really probed the mind—each topic was coupled with realistic scenarios. It was a very beneficial week.”
“Learning about bias, causation, and how to write effective research papers was incredibly helpful. The practical sessions were clear, insightful, and fun.”
Whether you are just beginning your research journey or looking to sharpen your epidemiological toolkit, this course provides a robust, practical foundation. You’ll gain technical skills, critical thinking strategies, and the ability to apply epidemiological principles to real-world problems.
Questions can be addressed to SACEMA Training Coordinator, Faikah Bruce – faikah@sun.ac.za
