Privacy Policy

1. Information We Collect

We collect the following types of information when you register for our training:

Personal Information:

• Full name
• Email address
• Country of residence
• Academic institution
• WhatsApp phone number
• Academic level/position

Usage Information:

• Training attendance and participation
• Community engagement metrics
• Website interaction data

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information to:

• Provide access to training sessions and materials
• Send training updates and schedules
• Add you to our WhatsApp community (with your consent)
• Provide ongoing mentorship and support
• Improve our training programs based on feedback
• Send occasional updates about future training opportunities (if opted in)
• Comply with legal obligations

3. Information Sharing and Disclosure

We do not sell, rent, or trade your personal information to third parties. We may share your information only in the following circumstances:

• WhatsApp Community: Your name and phone number are added to our community group with your explicit consent
• Service Providers: With trusted partners who help us operate our training platform (under strict confidentiality agreements)
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights and safety
• Consent: When you explicitly give us permission to share specific information

4. Data Security

We implement appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal information against unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. These measures include:

• Encrypted data transmission and storage
• Regular security assessments and updates
• Limited access to personal information on a need-to-know basis
• Secure backup and recovery procedures

5. Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

• Access: Request copies of your personal information
• Correction: Request correction of inaccurate personal information
• Deletion: Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal obligations)
• Opt-out: Unsubscribe from our communications at any time
• Data Portability: Request transfer of your data to another service
• Withdrawal of Consent: Withdraw consent for processing where applicable

6. Data Retention

We retain your personal information for as long as necessary to provide our services and fulfill the purposes outlined in this policy. Specifically:

• Registration information: Retained for the duration of your participation plus 2 years
• Communication preferences: Until you opt-out or request deletion
• Training materials access: 1 year after program completion
• Legal compliance: As required by applicable laws

7. International Data Transfers

As we serve scholars across Africa and potentially use international service providers, your information may be transferred to and processed in countries outside your home country. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect your information during such transfers.

8. Children's Privacy

Our services are intended for individuals who have reached the age of majority in their jurisdiction. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without parental consent.

9. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically to reflect changes in our practices or applicable laws. We will notify you of significant changes by email or through our training platform. Your continued participation after such notice constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

10. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your rights regarding your personal information, please contact us at info@researchwithme.com or through the official communication channels provided during your registration.