By: Balasius Shikongo
Research is often described as the process of discovering new knowledge. In Oshiwambo, research can be expressed as omapekaapeko; in Afrikaans, it is navorsing; in Otjiherero, it is ongondononeno; in Portuguese it is pesquisa and in English, simply research. Regardless of the language, the purpose remains the same: to seek answers through systematic inquiry.
Research is usually undertaken during the final year of Level 8 qualifications and at postgraduate levels. However, it can be done in some secondary schools, depending on the field of study. Unfortunately, many scholars fear the word research.
The truth is that they are not afraid of research itself; they are afraid of learning its rules because it really requires you to apply your Medulla Oblongata. Every university has its own research guide, and the first step towards success is to familiarize yourself with that guide. Learn it, follow it, and let it become your daily song.
One common mistake is writing a research proposal in the past tense. Why write about something as if it has already happened? Think of it as a man proposing a lady he loves. You would never say, “If you become mine, I was buying you a car.” Instead, you would say, “I will buy you a car.”
A proposal describes what you will do. Once data has been collected and analysed, then you write a report in the past tense because you are reporting what has already happened. Interesting, isn’t it?
As a researcher, never be stubborn. Be willing to learn, accept correction, and engage in meaningful discussions instead of unnecessary arguments. Leadership begins with humility, positivity, and a willingness to grow.
Through my observations, I have noticed that many postgraduate students stop working on their proposals immediately after defending them. They wait until data collection begins, wasting valuable time and this affects them in reaching the recommended number of words. My advice is simple, but valuable: duplicate your approved document.
Keep one as your working copy and continue expanding your introduction, literature review and methodology.
Dedicate at least three days a week to improving your work. This keeps your supervisor engaged and allows steady progress while awaiting approvals or data collection.
Many students leave university because of research. If you are one of them, return and finish what you started before you pass that culture to your children. Keep your supervisor busy, and seek an additional mentor who can guide and scaffold your understanding whenever you feel discombobulated.
Remember this: We rest when the work is done, not when we are tired or when challenges arise. When the journey becomes difficult; strengthen your mind, remain resilient, and keep moving forward. Your degree is waiting for you.
Finish the race and celebrate a victory that no one can take away and like nobody who quitted/wanted to give up before.
