From Theory to Practice: Community Medicine and Public Health

Qualitative Research Workshop: Theory to Practice organised by Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh

The Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health at PGIMER, Chandigarh, collaborated with HEAL and NAMS, New Delhi, to host a five-day Qualitative Research Workshop from June 30 to July 4, 2024.

The workshop aimed to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application in qualitative research, emphasizing health equity and community building. Additionally, thirty-five participants from India and Nepal actively engaged in the sessions.

The sessions began with foundational aspects of qualitative research, covering paradigms, interdisciplinary approaches, and the development of research questions.

They introduced participants to research designs, sampling methods, and data collection techniques, stressing qualitative research’s crucial role in advancing public health equity and community development.

The final sessions provided guidance on writing research manuscripts, submitting to peer-reviewed journals, and tips for thesis writing. Led by experts including Dr. Manmeet Kaur, Dr. Venkatesh Chakrapani and Dr. Rajesh Kumar, the workshop featured interactive sessions, group exercises, and discussions designed to enhance participants; understanding and application of qualitative research methodologies.

Course Director Dr. PVM Lakshmi, a Professor at PGIMER, Chandigarh, Organising Secretary Dr. Vineeth Rajagopal, an Assistant Professor at PGIMER, Chandigarh, and Course Coordinator Dr. Guneet Singh Assi, Senior Program Manager at HEAL Foundation, Chandigarh, jointly oversaw the workshop.