• Training of supervisors for meaningful engagement with their students • Standards of supervision should be formally defined in line with the country context • Institutions should try to ensure accessible training materials in social determinants of health and public health, possibly in partnership with other national or international organisations • Consider using and crediting blended learning approaches to improve course access • Doctoral research should be professionally managed with clear roles and responsibilities and defined milestones • Use of information and communications technology should be promoted to improve the access to training material • Institutions should try to secure sustainable finances to fund research work and provide stipends to students in order to attract and retain the most capable