KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Oct 17: The Department of Community Medicine at SKIMS Medical College and Hospital, Bemina, in collaboration with the Department of Community Medicine, SKIMS Soura, organised the First Research Methodology Workshop on October 14 and 15, bringing together 34 participants for an intensive two-day academic programme aimed at strengthening research skills among medical professionals.
The workshop focused on developing a systematic understanding of research methodology through expert-led lectures, interactive discussions and hands-on practical exercises. It covered key aspects of medical research, including formulating research questions and hypotheses, selecting appropriate study designs, reviewing scientific literature, determining sample sizes, writing research protocols and understanding research ethics.
The initiative marked a collaborative effort by the two institutions to promote a stronger research culture among medical professionals and equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to undertake scientifically sound studies.
The inaugural session began with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Ashfaq Ahmad Bhat, In-charge Head of the Department of Community Medicine at SKIMS-MCH Bemina.
Prof. Dr. Fazl Qadir Parray, Principal, SKIMS-MCH Bemina, delivered the opening remarks and underscored the importance of high-quality research in medical practice. He highlighted the need for medical professionals to develop a sound understanding of research principles to improve the quality of scientific inquiry and contribute meaningfully to evidence-based healthcare.
Prof. Dr. Anjum Bashir Fazili, Head of the Department of Community Medicine at SKIMS Soura, also addressed the participants, emphasising the role of research in advancing healthcare delivery and achieving better health outcomes. The inaugural session set the academic tone for the workshop, with an emphasis on building research capacity and encouraging a scientific approach to addressing healthcare challenges.
The first day’s proceedings began with an introductory session on research methodology conducted by Prof. Dr. Yasmeen Jan, Organising Secretary of the workshop. The session familiarised participants with the fundamental concepts of research and the systematic processes involved in designing and conducting a scientific study.
Prof. Dr. Ashfaq Ahmad Bhat and Dr. Labeeb subsequently conducted sessions on formulating research questions and hypotheses, explaining how clearly defined research problems and testable hypotheses provide the foundation for meaningful scientific investigation.
The academic programme also included a detailed session on research designs conducted by Prof. Dr. Javid Ahmad of SKIMS Soura and Dr. Altaf. The session familiarised participants with the importance of selecting an appropriate research design in accordance with the objectives and scope of a study.
Another important component of the first day was the session on literature review and reference management, facilitated by Dr. Beenish, Associate Professor, and Dr. Fahd, Senior Resident. Participants were introduced to the process of reviewing existing scientific literature and using Mendeley, a reference management tool that helps researchers organise citations and prepare bibliographies.
The session was followed by practical exercises, allowing participants to apply the concepts discussed and gain familiarity with tools used in academic writing and research documentation.
The second day focused on further strengthening participants’ understanding of the technical and ethical dimensions of medical research.
Dr. Inaamul Haq of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar conducted a session on sampling techniques and sample size determination. The session addressed the importance of selecting appropriate study populations and determining adequate sample sizes to ensure that research findings are scientifically meaningful.
Dr. Beenish and Dr. Qudsia guided participants through the process of research protocol writing, highlighting the importance of a clearly structured protocol in outlining study objectives, methodology, procedures and other essential elements before the commencement of research.
The workshop also featured a session on study instruments conducted by Dr. Shamila Qadri, Additional Professor at SKIMS. The session focused on the role of appropriate research instruments in collecting reliable and relevant data for scientific studies.
Prof. Dr. S. M. Salim Khan of GMC Srinagar delivered a session on research ethics, addressing the ethical principles that underpin responsible scientific investigation. The session highlighted the importance of maintaining ethical standards while planning and conducting research involving human participants.
The concluding academic session was conducted by Dr. Rabbani Tariq of SKIMS Soura, who discussed the different types of research and their relevance to scientific inquiry and healthcare-related investigations.
The programme was coordinated by Prof. Dr. Yasmeen Jan, Organising Secretary, and Dr. Beenish Mushtaq, Co-Organising Secretary, who played key roles in organising the workshop while also contributing to its academic sessions.
Dr. Fahd, Dr. Labeeb, Dr. Qudsia and Dr. Altaf also contributed through their respective teaching sessions and practical exercises. The collaborative efforts of the organising team, invited faculty members and institutional leadership helped ensure the smooth conduct of the two-day programme.
The workshop concluded with a post-test to assess participants’ understanding of the subjects covered during the sessions. This was followed by the valedictory session and distribution of certificates to the participants.
The participation of 34 individuals and the comprehensive coverage of research-related topics reflected the workshop’s focus on combining conceptual learning with practical application. By bringing together faculty members from SKIMS-MCH Bemina, SKIMS Soura and GMC Srinagar, the initiative also provided an opportunity for academic exchange and collaboration across institutions.
The successful completion of the first joint Research Methodology Workshop marks a constructive step towards strengthening research competencies among medical professionals. Such academic initiatives are significant for encouraging evidence-based clinical and public health practices, improving the quality of medical research and nurturing a culture of scientific inquiry within healthcare institutions.
With research increasingly shaping healthcare policies, clinical decision-making and public health interventions, structured training in research methodology can help medical professionals translate healthcare challenges into well-designed studies and generate findings that contribute to better patient care and improved health outcomes.
