New Frontiers in Qualitative Research Explored at Health Sciences Workshop

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The Discipline of Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences (BELS), within the School of Health Sciences, proudly hosted an impactful two-day qualitative research workshop on 8 and 9 July 2025 at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Westville campus.

The event featured distinguished scholar Professor Brett Smith from Durham University, UK, an internationally respected expert in disability studies, narrative inquiry, and arts-based research methods.

Titled ‘Exploring New Frontiers in Qualitative Research: Insights from a Leading Expert’, the event drew more than 65 researchers, postgraduate students, and academics from across disciplines. The sessions focused on advanced topics including co-production, post-qualitative inquiry, publishing strategies, and visual methods in qualitative research.

The opening address was delivered by the College of Health Sciences Dean of Research, Professor Bongani Nkambule, who underscored the importance of strengthening research capacity through engagements that cut across disciplines and paradigms. He welcomed Smith and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to advancing methodological innovation and scholarly collaboration.

Throughout the workshop, Smith fostered a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. Reflecting on his experience, he said, “I thoroughly enjoyed facilitating this workshop. The level of engagement, the thought-provoking questions, and the openness to new ideas made for a dynamic and stimulating space. It was a privilege to be part of such rich conversations and to contribute to UKZN’s growing qualitative research community.”

Professor Rowena Naidoo, Academic Leader of BELS and host of the event, expressed gratitude to all collaborators and noted plans to establish the workshop as an annual fixture. She also announced that a series of online workshops is being considered to promote continuous learning and expand access to qualitative research training across disciplines.

Participants offered positive feedback, highlighting the workshop’s practical impact:

“The facilitation style was inclusive and participatory, making everyone feel heard and valued.”

“The most effective and engaging aspects were the interactive activities and hands-on learning.”

“It gave a broad overview of how to use qualitative approaches in my study. I learned how to introduce photographs as tools, use photo elicitation to deepen responses, address ethical considerations, and analyse visual and narrative data.”

“The focus on co-production and research rigour was a game changer.”

Materials were praised as clear, accessible, and applicable to real-world research contexts, and the overall format allowed for meaningful collaboration, reflection, and immediate application of new skills.

Professor Verusia Chetty, a long-time champion of qualitative research and co-host of the event, remarked: “Qualitative research allows us to explore the richness of human experiences. It enables voices that are often marginalised to be heard and understood in context. At UKZN, we are committed to fostering these approaches, especially in health sciences, where complexity and context matter.”

The event was generously supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) through a Knowledge Interchange and Collaboration (KIC) grant. Gratitude is also extended to Professor Percy Mashige, Dean and Head of the School of Health Sciences, for his strategic support and encouragement of initiatives that elevate the School’s research standing.

“Sincere appreciation goes to Ms Bongiwe Gumede (Academic Development Officer) and Mrs Pam Singh (Teaching and Learning Administrative Officer), whose dedication ensured the seamless co-ordination of the workshop,” said Naidoo.

The workshop concluded with closing reflections, leaving participants inspired and equipped to deepen their qualitative research practice. It reinforced UKZN’s leadership in research excellence and marked an important step toward building a vibrant, inclusive, and methodologically diverse academic community.

Words and photograph: Lunga Memela