In a bid to enhance research capacity and publishing competence among academics, a one-day seminar titled “Navigating Research Grants and Academic Publishing” was held on Monday, 21st July 2025, drawing participants from various academic disciplines.
The event featured two key sessions led by renowned international scholars: Prof. Tim Stapleton and Prof. Roy Doron, who provided practical insights into securing research funding and publishing in reputable journals.
Accessing Research Grants: Insights from South Africa and Canada
Prof. Tim Stapleton opened the seminar with a comprehensive presentation on strategies for accessing research grants. He emphasized the structural differences between South African and Canadian funding systems, with particular attention to Canada’s Tri-Agency Funding System, which includes the Medical Research Council, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).
These agencies, he explained, offer a range of funding opportunities with varying eligibility and partnership requirements. Understanding these nuances is crucial for scholars seeking international research support.
Contributing further, Prof. Roy Doron advised researchers to study grant documents meticulously and review successful applications from past recipients. “Replicate effective methods,” he urged.
Prof. Doron also facilitated the second session on the fundamentals of publishing in reputable journals. He walked participants through the academic publishing process, stressing the importance of: Choosing the right publication outlet, avoiding predatory publishers, and adhering to editorial guidelines and peer review protocols
He also provided a detailed framework for structuring academic papers, including key components such as a well-crafted introduction, literature review, main body, and conclusion. He encouraged scholars to tailor their submissions to the expectations of their specific disciplines and maintain logical consistency within the standard word count range of 8,000–12,000 words.
Prof. Doron underscored the peer review process as a vital, though time-consuming, aspect of academic publishing. He outlined typical review outcomes—acceptance, revision, or rejection—and encouraged attendees to view feedback as an opportunity for improvement.
The seminar highlighted the essential link between strategic planning and scholarly success. Participants left with practical knowledge on aligning research with funder priorities and increasing their chances of publication in respected journals.