Certified Specialist Programme in Child Rights Research
Published on June 23, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're talking with Dr. Sofia Patel, an expert in child rights research and the lead instructor for the Certified Specialist Programme in Child Rights Research. Dr. Patel, can you tell us a bit about what inspired you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely, I've seen a growing need for specialized knowledge in child rights research, particularly when it comes to data analysis and qualitative methods. I wanted to create a program that would equip researchers and practitioners with the skills they need to design robust research projects and understand child protection frameworks. HOST: That's fantastic. And how does international human rights law factor into the course? GUEST: International human rights law is a key component of the course because it forms the foundation for child rights. We explore how these legal frameworks inform research and practice, and how they can be used to advocate for children's rights at the local, national, and international levels. HOST: I see. And who is this course ideal for? GUEST: The course is ideal for academics, NGOs, and government professionals who are working in or interested in child rights research. By completing the program, they'll gain valuable credentials that can boost their career and expertise in this crucial field. HOST: That's great to hear. Now, what are some of the challenges faced in the field of child rights research, and how does the course address them? GUEST: One of the biggest challenges is the lack of standardized methods for conducting research in this field. The course addresses this by providing rigorous training in data analysis and qualitative methods, so that researchers can produce high-quality, reliable data that can inform policy and practice. HOST: And what do you see as the future of child rights research? GUEST: I believe that child rights research will continue to be a critical area of focus, particularly as we work to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children around the world. The course is designed to equip researchers and practitioners with the skills they need to make a real difference in this field, and to advance our understanding of child rights in a rapidly changing world. HOST: Dr. Patel, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights on the Certified Specialist Programme in Child Rights Research. It's been a pleasure having you on the show. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure sharing my thoughts on this important program.
