Publication
Strengthening Research Institutions in Africa: A Synthesis Report
This report summarises the key findings arising from the needs assessment of seven African countries that were considered for inclusion in DFID’s ‘Strengthening
What is it about?
This page summarises the results of a one-year study of research system strengthening in low- and medium-income countries.
The study included two phases: • a rapid evidence assessment (REA) of research capacity strengthening interventions in LMICs • an analysis of the needs and strengths if the research system in seven African countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda).
This is the first study that tries to systematically assess research systems using a replicable methodology comprising of 104 qualitative and quantitative indicators. This research was conducted by Research Consulting for the UK Department for International development (DFID) to inform the Strengthening Research Institutions in Africa (SRIA) programme.
More information on SRIA can be found by visiting: • DevTracker (https://devtracker.dfid.gov.uk/projects/GB-GOV-1-300781) • R4D (https://www.gov.uk/dfid-research-outputs)
Why is it important?
Research systems that enable researchers, funders, and users of research to work together productively are an important component of economic development. As well as producing research outputs and expertise that can guide economic, social and political development, research systems help to create a culture of critical, evidence-informed thinking. They help frame debates, shift social norms, increase participation and promote inclusion. Strong research systems increase human capital, underpin the transition to knowledge-based economies, and promote innovation.
Perspectives
When we started the project, we were surprised to see how little attention had been paid to research system strengthening. Historically, much of the focus had been on strengthening research capacity at the researcher or - at best - organisational level. This study begins to address the evidence gap by assessing research systems needs in selected LMICs. More importantly, it introduces a method that can be replicated across the developing world and refined over time to guide strategic interventions in this area.
Dr
Mattia
Fosci
Research Consulting Limited
