Strathmore University Business School, through the Institute of Healthcare Management PRISM Centre, in partnership with the Kenya Health Human Resource Advisory Council (KHHRAC), is implementing the project Strengthening Health Workforce Governance and Management in Kenya.
As part of the project’s launch, a research training workshop was recently held to prepare the research team before embarking on field activities.
Why Techniques Matter
The training emphasized that in research, techniques matter. As the facilitators explained, research without techniques is like baking without a recipe—chaotic and inconsistent. Sound techniques are the blueprint that make findings systematic, objective, and credible.
Exploring Research Approaches
During the session, participants explored a range of methodologies that will guide their work:
- Quantitative Research – focused on numbers, measurements, and statistical analysis to generate reliable evidence.
- Qualitative Research – aimed at understanding meanings, experiences, and perspectives from participants.
- Mixed-Methods Research – combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches to capture richer insights.
- Systematic and Scoping Reviews – synthesizing existing evidence to map gaps and strengthen credibility.
These approaches will be central to the project’s activities, which include a comprehensive HRH situation analysis, a donor transition study, and the development of an AI-enabled HRH information platform for Kenya.
Key Takeaways for Researchers
The facilitators left the participants with a set of reminders to guide their work:
- Clearly define the line of inquiry before starting.
- Choose research techniques that fit the problem at hand.
- Document every step — from data collection to challenges encountered.
- Stay curious and observant, as some of the best insights come from simple observations.
- Remember that everyone who solves problems is, in essence, conducting research.
Building Credibility Through Methodology
As the trainers highlighted, the final reports, reviews, and presentations are only the outward expressions of research. What gives them real meaning and influence is the robust methodology that lies beneath. By adopting rigorous approaches, the project team will ensure its findings are credible, impactful, and capable of shaping policy and practice in Kenya’s health sector.
Looking Ahead
This training marks an important step in ensuring that the Strengthening Health Workforce Governance and Management in Kenya project delivers on its promise: to provide evidence that informs smarter policies, strengthens accountability, and supports the equitable distribution of health workers across the country.
Ultimately, the project seeks to create a responsive, data-driven, and sustainable health workforce system. By equipping researchers with the right tools, the initiative lays a strong foundation for improving governance and management of human resources for health in Kenya.
