UoN in a programme to develop research uptake

Abstract

UoN in a programme to develop research uptake Send by emailPDF version Share: Facebook Twitter Google Plus Yahoo LinkedIn Digg Delicious (From left) Prof. Seth Mcligeyo, Dr. John Kirkland, Prof. Lucy Irungu, Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi and Mrs. Rosemary Omwandho.

The University of Nairobi (UoN) is one of the 24 universities selected to participate in the Development Research Uptake in Sub-Saharan Africa (DRUSSA) Programme after a successful expression of interest to participate.

The five-year programme seeks to assist participating universities’ efforts to ensure that their research and other relevant work reaches and directly impacts on policy and practice in their countries by supporting and strengthening their in-house expertise.

Dr. John Kirkland, Secretary General, Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) commended the University for putting research and management structures in place. He pointed out the prominence universities have been receiving over the years but was keen on how these institutions remain relevant in the community.

Dr. Kirkland spoke recently when he paid a courtesy call to the University in a meeting presided over by Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs. In his remarks, Prof. Kaimenyi challenged the team to ensure that the programme is sustainable even after the five years. Through the programme a vibrant research culture is set to develop not only in UoN but in the country as well.

During the programme, each University is expected to form an implementation team that will join in the DRUSSA community and be part of on-campus events which will constitute part of institutional strengthening and capacity building in research management.

There will be 20 bursaries for the M.Phil programme to be awarded amongst the 24 participating universities. Case studies will be undertaken in specific research projects at selected universities as part of impact evaluation of research uptake.

In addition, campus visits by DRUSSA partners will also be conducted. The aim of the visits is for the partners to meet with implementing teams and sensitize them about research uptake management. Short courses for the participants will also be offered.

DRUSSA aims at supporting links between emergent research managers in universities across Eastern, Western and Southern Africa.

In attendance was Prof. Lucy Irungu, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Production and Extension, Prof. Seth Mcligeyo, Ag. Director, Board of Postgrduate Studies (BPS) and Mrs. Rosemary Omwandho, the administrator for the DRUSSA champion in the University.