Report Lloyd Kwambana

What is your research project about?

I analyse programs critical for the realisation and respect of children’s rights protecting them from abuse, exploitation, and violence. I had already worked on that topic in my master’s thesis which focused on the inclusion of children in the policy formulation process that determine their growth and development. The voice of a child is critical when developing policies that concern their welfare. Participation of children promotes sustainability and effectiveness of interventions that facilitate a safe space for children.

My research is also shaped through my personal experience. Losing both my parents and growing up under my grandmother’s care shaped my interests and passion to advocate for support for orphans and vulnerable children.

Your Master’s thesis won the “Child Protection and Gender Trophy Award” at Women’s University of Africa. Then, you received a PhD scholarship through the KAAD. Why did you choose to apply at Leuphana University?

I chose Leuphana because of its reputation and critical relevance to my PhD study. I conducted a university mapping analysis and noticed that Leuphana University was the institution that would make me realise my career goals. Leuphana’s commitment, values and integrity were at the core of my consideration.

Within the doctoral research group “Social Pedagogy in Diverse Societies” I found the mentors I was looking for, thus I shared my application package with Prof. Dr. Lars Alberth. Although I am just getting started at Leuphana, I already received detailed feedback. Particularly, I appreciate the supervision agreement, which lays out a solid path for my research. The professionalism and supportive energy from Leuphana makes me enjoy my study and learn at the same time.

What is your experience as an international graduate applying at Leuphana, what advice can you give to others?

It helps to take your time to analyse which research group suits your interests best. After identifying my potential supervisor, I put a lot of work in my application package which included my research proposal, a motivational letter and information on my personal background.

After my application, I received support to plan my doctoral journey in a way which l believe every PhD candidate wishes for. Therefore, l give my informed advice to other candidates or applicants to consider Leuphana University as an academic hall-mark towards realising their academic goals.

What do you hope to achieve with your research ?

I hope to achieve the realisation of programs and interventions that protect and safeguard children from any form of abuse, violence, and exploitation. This includes participation of children in policy making processes concerning their welfare, developing a Child Protection Framework and implementing it. In the future, l see myself actively participating and contributing to programs around the welfare of children, participating in my doctoral research group and mobilising resources towards sustainable support for the growth and development of children.