My name is Immaculate Nakabugo, and I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Animal Science with a focus on Animal Nutrition within the Department of Animal and Fisheries Science at the School of Agriculture, Food Security, and Environmental Sciences at Maseno University under the CaReFoAfrica mobility scholarship.

My research aims to explore the effects of propolis, collected from various ecological zones in Kenya, on feed efficiency in broiler chickens. According to the guidelines for research proposal presentation and approval, I am required to present my proposal first at the department level, then at the school level, and finally at the School of Graduate Studies (SGS). As part of this process, I presented my research proposal to the Department of Animal and Fisheries Science on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, in the SGS boardroom. The presentation began shortly after 9 AM and lasted for 20 minutes, followed by a session for panelists to provide feedback on the proposal. The feedback highlighted areas that needed revision in accordance with Maseno University’s proposal writing guidelines. Additionally, the panel offered guidance on refining the proposal to focus more on the nutritional aspect of the research, in line with my specialization, rather than the therapeutic aspect. In conclusion, the panel advised me to work closely with my supervisors to address the comments before proceeding with the presentation at the School of Agriculture, Food Security, and Environmental Sciences. I am currently working on the revisions to move forward with the next steps in the process.

I am grateful to my supervisors, Dr. Wambui and Dr. Olwande, for their invaluable support in helping me make steady progress in my research through their prompt guidance at each stage of the proposal approval process. In closing, I encourage my fellow students to actively engage their supervisors throughout the various stages of proposal approval to ensure they meet the established timelines.