Mentoring the Next Generation: A Journey in Facilitating Training and Publication for Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) Early Career Agrifood Scholars

Sociologists and social al scientists in Sub-Saharan Africa remain among the least published professionals in the world. Likewise, existing works are often limited in quality and visibility as most authors and institutions lack resources, such as funding to attend conferences and professional development workshops that would promote strong research and publications. In May 2023, the Research committee on Sociology of Agriculture and Food (RC40) supported a 2.5 day long virtual workshop. The main objectives of the workshop were to the equip the early-career researchers with skills required to enhance their capabilities in publishing in international journals as well as mentorship. Drawing on a multi-faceted approach, we share some of the key opportunities and challenges faced in our journey as well as share some proposed best practices for others looking to design and implement low cost and virtual professional development workshops.