Ndirangu is a doctoral student in Finance & Accounting at the University of Nairobi, with a research interest in inequality & poverty, entrepreneurship, economic growth, innovations and national competitiveness, international trade, and productivity. Ndirangu is a regular publisher and columnist with Business Daily Africa among others, he has published in several journals, is a peer reviewer, and he frequently speaks at international and local conferences. He is a fellow of the following institutes: IFE Institute of Advance Studies, Human Science Research Council, Ubuntu, European Union Law & Governance in Populist Times.

Why Research is the Cornerstone of Development in Kenya

Written by a doctoral student in Nairobi, this article discusses the benefits of research in enabling a country, such as Kenya, to generate increased economic growth and social development. Research is fuelled by curiosity and asking questions, immersing us in discovering everything there is to know – and ultimately propels humanity forward with developments.

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The Journey to Authenticity in Academia

‘If a PhD is to be an ordeal – and indeed, it is – then let it be an ordeal wherein you find meaning in something that is true to yourself’. This article explores the feelings of imposter syndrome and the pressures to follow academic trends at the start of your PhD journey, disconnecting you from your true interests. A translation project helped the author realise the value of embracing his authentic self and focusing on what truly resonates with him. By shifting to linguistics and translation studies, the author found fulfilment and meaning in his research.

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PhD Scholarship Proposal: Why I Would Write It Again!

In this article, Bettina Lier shares her experience of applying for a PhD scholarship and how she initially found the application process overwhelming. With the support of her supervisor she overcame her doubts, and successfully completed the proposal. Her story is a great example of how with the right mindset and support, we can overcome any challenge.

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10 Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me Before My PhD

Pillalamarri Srikrishnarka shares 10 tips he wish he knew before starting his STEM-based PhD program at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. A final year scholar, Pillalamarri emphasizes networking and time management, he provides useful links to other resources.

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