An academic field visit and training programme on Qualitative Research Methodology was organized at the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Comilla, from 23th of August to 27th of August, 2026, in connection with the course Research Methodology: Fieldwork, (PA 2421). The programme was designed to strengthen the research knowledge, methodological understanding, and practical research skills of the students of BPA 2025, who are currently studying in their 4th semester.

A total of 40 students have participated in the training programme, accompanied by the Chairman of the Department of Public Administration, Lt. Col. Md. Rezaul Karim, two faculty members, Lecturer Nahin Anzoom Sayed and Lecturer Jannateen Naoar Siena. The programme provided students with an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with practical, field-oriented learning through a series of structured sessions conducted by experienced instructors from Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD).

The training covered a range of important areas related to social research, research methodology, field-level data collection, sampling, academic writing, and public-sector financial administration. The sessions conducted during the programme were:

1. Financial Administration, Budgeting and Auditing of the Bangladesh Government

• Instructor: Mr. Abdullah Al Mamun

2. Basic Concepts of Social Research

• Instructor: Dr. Md. Mizanur Rahman

3. Research Methods: Survey Method, KII, Case Study and FGD

• Instructor: Dr. Md. Mizanur Rahman

4. Techniques for Preparing Questionnaires and Checklists

• Instructor: Mr. Abdullah Al Hussain

5. Importance of Sampling and Sampling Techniques

• Instructor: Dr. Benzir Ahmed

6. Basic Concepts and Application of PRA Tools and Techniques: The Art of Data Collection in Field Situations

• Instructor: Mr. Abdullah Al Mamun

7. Literature Review, References and Footnotes

• Instructor: Dr. Md. Mizanur Rahman

8. Report Writing

• Instructor: Dr. Md. Mizanur Rahman

The field visit and training programme provided students with valuable exposure to practical research tools and techniques, enhancing their understanding of qualitative research methods and field-based data collection. The sessions enabled them to gain practical insights into research design, sampling, questionnaire and checklist preparation, participatory research tools, qualitative data collection, literature review, referencing, and academic report writing. In addition, the session on financial administration, budgeting, and auditing offered students a broader understanding of financial and administrative practices within the public sector.

The programme, therefore, served as a valuable experiential learning opportunity, enabling students to translate classroom-based theoretical knowledge into practical research skills and competencies. The field-based nature of the training also contributed to strengthening their analytical abilities, methodological competence, and professional preparedness as students of Public Administration.

The Department of Public Administration expresses its sincere appreciation to the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD), Cumilla, for hosting the programme and extending its valuable support and hospitality. The Department also conveys its gratitude to the distinguished instructors for sharing their expertise and providing insightful and engaging sessions that significantly enriched the academic experience of the participating students.