Innovative Approaches to Strengthening Postdoctoral Mentorship in Resource-Constrained African Universities

Abstract

This study investigates innovative strategies to improve postdoctoral mentorship in resource-limited African universities, addressing significant challenges in establishing effective mentorship structures. A comprehensive literature review using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AJOL, and Google Scholar, along with case studies from academic publications and institutional reports, was conducted. Thematic analysis identified challenges, best practices, and novel approaches. The review highlights effective methods to enhance mentorship programs, advocating for a reassessment of mentorship practices in African universities, and emphasizes mentorship models, collaborative frameworks, and technological applications. The study stresses the importance of innovative mentorship strategies to support early-career researchers in resource-constrained environments, offering insights for policymakers and academic leaders to bolster research capacity.