From May 14–16, 2025, Ifakara Health Institute is conducting a hands-on training to strengthen the capacity of public health researchers, academics, and vector control experts in ecological data analysis using Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs) in R. The training is designed to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in applying GLMMs, enhancing their ability to analyze complex datasets and improve the quality of their research. 

The three-day training brought together young scientists from leading institutions across Tanzania, including Ifakara Health Institute, the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP), the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Mzumbe University, Zanzibar Malaria Elimination Program (ZAMEP), and the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). 

Participants covered a broad range of topics—from data types, sources, and entry, to data summarization and visualization. General linear models, Generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) and its application in analysis of ecological data. They also learned advanced techniques such as model selection using AIC, and DHaRMa package, and scientific reporting with R Markdown.

The training was facilitated by scientists from Ifakara’s Environmental Health and Ecological Sciences (EHES) Department, led by Principal Investigator Letus Muyaga with Yohana Mwalugelo and Dr Halfan Ngowo. Their guidance empowered participants to gain practical, hands-on experience in applying GLMMs to real-world ecological datasets.

The GLMM training funded by the African Mathematical Modeling Network (AMMnet), which runs from December 2024 to December 2025. It targets public health professionals and researchers with intermediate knowledge of R and data analysis, offering a comprehensive mix of theoretical and practical skills to improve their research capabilities.