Using a projectivized approach towards advanced studies in mental health research and developing graduateness among mental health students

Postgraduate students could benefit from joining a projectivized research project, as this could be helpful to focus research objectives early in their career. It may also assist in aligning their efforts with those of seasoned academics and contribute towards solving important research questions. This group aims to develop a projectivized research proposal which will be accessible to a diverse pool of students, hosted by several universities and supervised by an experienced cohort of supervisors. This effort could increase research collaboration, as well as the exchange of knowledge between universities and improve the graduateness of those individuals involved. Importantly, the proposal intends to address one of the most pressing mental health problems in Africa. Additional to these outcomes, the proposal could form the basis of grant applications. The group is also committed to obtain ethical clearances for the project through research ethics committees at one South African and one international university. Given the high level of buy-in associated with projectivized research, and the meticulous planning required in the design thereof, it is foreseen that several publications might emerge from the project. This should contribute towards enhancing the careers of the young graduates.