Abstract 77: Nigerian Cancer Research Training (NCAT) Program

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: Given its rising incidence and poor outcomes, cancer is a priority area for research and training in Nigeria. The Nigerian Cancer Research Training Program (NCAT) is a multi-pronged training program that aims to strengthen cancer research capacity in Nigeria. This evaluation assessed the early experiences and impact of the training on the first two cohorts of trainees who participated in the program. Methods: Surveys assessing basic research skills and satisfaction with training modules and mentors were administered to NCAT scholars who completed the program. Each cohort also participated in focus group discussions (FGDs) to assess their experiences and the program’s impact on their research career. Ten and 9 scholars participated from cohorts 1 and 2, respectively. Rapid matrix analysis was used to identify salient themes which were organized into two domains: (1) the decision to participate in the program and (2) program experience. Results: Of the 22 scholars that completed the NCAT program, 18 (85.7%) were very satisfied with the overall experience of the program, and 22 (100%) believed their mentor/mentee relationship was valuable to their work. Compared to pre-session scores, post-session test scores show significant improvement in knowledge in five out of seven training sessions. FGDs revealed that the scholars’ decisions to participate in the program were rooted in a desire to build knowledge, increase personal capacity for research, collaborate with colleagues, and attractiveness of program offerings. Regarding the overall program experience, scholars felt the program didactics were appropriate in content and mechanism of delivery but were overwhelmed by the volume of content in the given timeframe—which may be alleviated by revisiting didactic topics. Mentorship was a major positive aspect of the program, helping the scholars define what mentorship is and feel more committed to their work through support and practical guidance. Inclusion of the Harvard Principles and Practice of Clinical Research course in the program was a major draw and benefit for scholars, with some reporting they returned as Teaching Assistants. Conclusion: The NCAT program’s initial outcomes demonstrate that it was well received and provided valuable foundational skills for leading independent oncologic research. Future studies will evaluate long- term outcomes such as translation of knowledge and skills gained from this program into career progression. Citation Format: Naqiya Rahil Choonawala, Fatimah B. Abdulkareem, Oluseyi Olanrewaju, Jaime Gilliland, Catherine Zivanov, Erica Mann, Rivka Kahn, Shekinah Yobuh Williams, Elizabeth Bashua, Chinonso Mary Agrippa, Oyelola Adeoye, Israel Adeyemi Owoade, Victoria L. Mango, T. Peter Kingham, Olusegun Isaac Alatise. Nigerian Cancer Research Training (NCAT) Program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 13th Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research; 2025 Sep 16. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 77.