ZANKLI RESEARCH CENTRE HOLDS ONE DAY STAKEHOLDERS WORKSHOP TO ENLIGHTEN PARTICIPANTS ON THE POWER OF PHOTOVOICE.

 

The Photovoice Stakeholders Workshop which was held recently at Bolton White Hotel in Abuja provided a platform for key stakeholders from the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy programme of the Ministry of Health, KNCV Nigeria, STOPTB and other stakeholders to learn about and engage with the Photovoice methodology in the context of Tuberculosis (TB) control in Nigeria. The workshop, organized by the LIGHT Consortium and Zankli Research Centre, aimed to educate participants on the significance of using photographs to amplify the voices of individuals and drive positive change in communities affected by TB.

Dr. Bimba, Director of Zankli Research Centre, opened the workshop by expressing gratitude to all attendees and providing an overview of the LIGHT Consortium's mission. He stated that the photovoice methodology is relatively new in this part of the world, but he expressed optimism that photovoice is here to stay and describes it as a phenomenal tool.

 

Dr. Toyosi making his presentation at the workshop

Dr. Adekeye Toyosi, the Research Uptake Manager and Co-investigator in the Photovoice study, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the purpose and implementation of Photovoice. He emphasized the methodology's ability to empower marginalized communities, challenge societal perceptions, and influence policy. Dr. Adekeye stated that Photovoice involves using photographs or videos to express thoughts and experiences about one's environment. He emphasized that photographs have the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, hold policymakers accountable, and empower individuals without requiring them to speak publicly.

 Mr. Andrew Oguntolu, Co-investigator in the Photovoice study, facilitated an engaging exercise during the workshop that encouraged participants to connect with the displayed pictures on the wall. He invited each participant to carefully select one or two pictures that resonated with their role as a researcher or within their workspace and share their insights with the group. The exercise sparked lively discussions as participants examined the photographs, seeking connections between the visuals and their professional experiences. Each participant had a unique perspective and interpretation of the images, which added depth and richness to the conversation.

Some participants looking at the display pictures on the wall.




During the question-and-answer session, stakeholders raised inquiries regarding the research methodology, the number of TB facilities in Nigeria, the limited awareness about TB, and the progress of the LIGHT Consortium. The LIGHT team and other stakeholders addressed these questions and concerns, fostering a deeper understanding of the Photovoice approach.

 

Two key presentations showcased the practical application of Photovoice. Miss Umoti Yakdum presented a pilot study conducted in Kagoro Local Government Area (LGA) of Southern Kaduna, focusing on the health challenges faced by the community due to banditry and subsequent attacks. The presentation featured powerful images depicting destroyed houses, damaged farmlands, and bandits using the community's only water source to bath and feed their animals. The analysis of these photographs shed light on the community's health challenges and highlighted the potential for Photovoice to create positive change.

Mr. Haruna Aminu presented an analysis of pictures taken during the Researchers' Training, explaining the analytical process using the SHOWED method. The analysis method allowed participants to delve into the deeper meaning and implications behind each photograph, encouraging the development of concrete actions and engaging potential sponsors and partners.

In a group discussion, participants explored ways to improve the Photovoice methodology and discussed its usefulness in their respective workspaces. Recommendations included cautious photography practices to avoid legal repercussions, greater awareness creation and advocacy, collaboration with partners and policymakers, organizing workshops, and establishing partnerships. Participants recognized Photovoice as a powerful communication tool with the potential to generate impactful data, create publishable articles, drive advocacy efforts, and raise awareness about TB.

The workshop concluded with a suggestion for a larger forum to facilitate knowledge sharing, best practice exchange, and comprehensive discussions on Photovoice implementation in TB control. Participants recognized Photovoice as an underused yet powerful research method and highlighted its potential to overcome language barriers, create lasting impact, and mobilize resources for TB control programs.


















Written By Andrew Oguntolu, Communication Officer ZRC/LIGHT

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