PhD Student Tackling Intimate Partner Violence in Resource-Constrained Settings Receives an IDRC Doctoral Research Award

In a recent interview with Omolola Alade, a Ph.D. candidate in Global Health at McMaster University, a spotlight was put on her research addressing intimate partner violence (IPV) in resource-constrained settings. Omolola, whose background lies in dentistry and global health, shared insights into her personal journey, research motivations, methodologies, and the significance of her work.

Omolola’s interest in IPV stemmed from her clinical encounters with patients whom she suspected were experiencing domestic abuse. However, the lack of certainty on how to address the issue within resource-constrained settings posed a significant challenge. Her experiences resonated with many healthcare professionals she both worked alongside and interacted with, reflecting a broader issue within the healthcare system.

The discussion delved into the prevailing gaps in research, particularly the absence of women’s voices from resource-constrained settings like Nigeria. Omolola’s research aims to bridge this gap by focusing on community perspectives and experiences, emphasizing the need for interventions tailored to the unique challenges faced by these communities.

What further sets Omolola’s research apart is her mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis with qualitative evidence synthesis. By analyzing demographic and health survey data, she aims to map typologies of help-seeking behavior for IPV, providing quantitative insights into a complex social issue. Additionally, the qualitative studies will offer deeper insights into women’s experiences, perceptions, and challenges in seeking help.

Omolola’s research has been recognized with an IDRC Doctoral Research Award, highlighting its significance on the global stage. The award acknowledges the importance of her work and emphasizes the commitment to supporting international projects addressing critical health issues.

Throughout the interview, Omolola emphasized the transformative role of McMaster’s Global Health program in shaping her research journey. From foundational courses in research methods to the supportive academic environment, she credits her program for providing the necessary skills, guidance, and resources to undertake impactful research. For aspiring researchers, Omolola’s journey serves as a testament to perseverance and belief in oneself. Despite facing setbacks and rejections, she encourages others to continue pursuing their goals, emphasizing that each application and endeavor is a learning opportunity.

Omolola’s work represents a crucial step forward in understanding and addressing IPV in resource-constrained settings. By amplifying women’s voices and employing a multidisciplinary approach, her research has the potential to inform targeted interventions and policies, ultimately contributing to the well-being of communities worldwide.

As Omolola’s research journey continues, her dedication and commitment to addressing pressing global health challenges serve as an inspiration to researchers and advocates alike. With her work, she not only sheds light on the silent suffering of people experiencing IPV but also paves the way for meaningful change and empowerment in communities around the world.

Congratulations, Omolola on your IDRC Doctoral Research Award! We wish you all the best in your research and studies!