Paulina Jara-Osorio

Childhood Participation: A Challenge of Design and Implementation of Public Policies in Chile.

My PhD research is examining whether it is necessary to incorporate childhood participation in public policy making in Chile and the possible consequences of this aim for childhood, policymaking and social programmes in which they are part. Reflection regards the barriers and proposals to promote children’s participation in the policymaking would enlighten what type of childhood participation should be promoted through a system which guarantees the protection of children's rights in Chile

In my master’s thesis, I identified the need for a relational change in Chilean public schools. However, the promotion of this change transcends the student space since childhood would develop in contexts where violent dynamics are reproduced and promoted. During my work experience in different Ministries in my country I witnessed and experienced the shortcomings of the system dealing with the problems of childhood in Chile. There has been a lack of holistic comprehension and approach to the childhood dimension in different social public programmes. I wanted to implement my research to contribute to the promotion of meaningful children’s participation in the initiatives in which they are involved, especially in the policymaking process.

I was a Lecturer at the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at a Chilean University. I decided to start my PhD to continue my improvement of research knowledge because a PhD is substantial to continue the academic career. Also, I have worked in different ministries and public services in my home country. Before starting my PhD, I was coordinating a European Union project in alliance with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile.

A PhD process differs from a PG/UG study in many aspects. First, the PhD research is a more flexible space in which you are the leader of your process, the intensity of your study and the outcomes you would obtain through this process depend on you as a researcher. Although, you have the guidance and support of your supervisors during the PhD, everything depends on you.

Secondly, the PhD process is more independent and lonelier than a PG/UG study. Despite having your colleagues, most of the time the PhD researcher is working in the own project. It is not like the PG/UG context in which you see your classmates daily and prepare coursework or exams with them.

Studying a PhD offers an academic space to generate knowledge which will contribute not only to the academia but also to the reality of people who are involved in the studied phenomena. I really appreciate having the chance of helping to improve the quality of life of other people thanks to the findings of my research.

It is important to feel passion and real interest in your research topic as the PhD process is intensive and demanding and your passion for knowledge helps you to persevere and continue your research until the end. Moreover, having a balance between your studies and personal life is necessary to keep your wellbeing strong, especially your mental health in a good level, a priority because without good health, it is more difficult to conduct your research with success. Finally, I recommend planning each day and define aims for each week and month with a diary because this will help students to organise their research process with more details and in a practical way.

I think that 含羞草视频 tries to keep a good atmosphere for postgraduates, offering proper spaces to conduct your research, and interchange knowledge with other members of the academic community. Furthermore, there is an important interest in supporting the health condition of students through mental health support and many sports activities/facilities which encourage a balance between the studies and the need of leisure time and relief of stress.

I see myself as a Lecturer at a University, encouraging students to learn and understand that with their knowledge they can change the life of many people in any context. Moreover, I would like to contribute with my research in different public programmes to collaborate in the wellbeing of citizenship, especially children and young people.