Trainee experiences of a qualitative research training programme for young women in Kenya: a mixed methods study.

OBJECTIVES: To explore and understand trainee experiences of a pilot qualitative research training programme for young women in Kisumu, Kenya. DESIGN: Mixed-methods study, including knowledge surveys disseminated at three time points (baseline, midline, endline), one-on-one qualitative interviews conducted at two time points (baseline, endline) and an open-ended follow-up survey 16 months after the training concluded. SETTING: The Future of Sexual and Reproductive Health Research Kenya (FOR-Kenya) programme was implemented in Kisumu, Kenya. TRAINEES: 10 young women (20-25 years old), including six undergraduate students at Maseno University and four community members in Kisumu, Kenya. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: We assessed trainees' knowledge of qualitative research, confidence in qualitative research skills and interest in a qualitative research career. RESULTS: Trainees' average knowledge score rose from 69% at baseline to 78% at endline, alongside increases in confidence in conducting, evaluating and identifying key elements of qualitative research and in interest in a qualitative research career (80%-100%). Interviews highlighted hands-on fieldwork, close mentorship and peer support as central to these gains alongside challenges around time for data analysis. At the 16-month follow-up, 6 of 10 trainees reported using FOR-Kenya skills to secure further research opportunities. CONCLUSION: Structured, hands-on qualitative research training delivered before graduate school appears to build research capacity and career interest among young women from university and community backgrounds. Programmes adapting this model should plan for adequate time, funding and institutional lead time to support trainees' full engagement.