Nigerian universities and research institutions are missing out on valuable international research grants due to insufficient visibility and accessibility, according to the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC). This concern was spotlighted during a recent meeting organized by APHRC for the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU) and other university officials.
Dr. Sindi Kirimi, Programme Manager of the Catalyze Impact Initiative at APHRC, presented data showing that African institutions, including those in Nigeria, receive a disproportionately low share of international research funding. “Out of 30,160 grants awarded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) between March 1994 and October 2021, only 2,996 grants were allocated to Africa-based institutions, representing just 9.9% of all grants,” Kirimi noted. He attributed this disparity to the limited online presence of African universities and a lack of awareness about their capabilities among international funders.
Kirimi emphasized the need for these institutions to improve their digital footprint. “Many institutions lack functional websites that are easily accessible, and there is a general lack of awareness about the capacities of the institutions and their researchers,” he explained. To address this, APHRC has developed the Good Financial Grant Practices (GFGP) standard, which certifies institutions and researchers, thereby enhancing their chances of securing grants by demonstrating their capacity to manage funds effectively.
Additionally, Kirimi stressed the importance of African scientists publishing in international journals, as local publications often do not reach a global audience. APHRC is engaging with journal editors across Africa to create a common platform that will increase the visibility of African research.
Dr. Alphonsus Neba, Program Director at APHRC, highlighted the untapped potential of African research institutions, noting that while global funding opportunities are expanding, African commitments to research funding have often gone unmet. He stated, “Seizing these opportunities requires robust research ecosystems, sound financial management and governance, excellent research environments, and strong institutional leadership. The visibility and discoverability of African researchers and institutions are crucial to this endeavor.”
Neba called for Nigerian universities to embrace the GFGP standard, which is supported by major international funders and is becoming increasingly essential for securing substantial grants. He argued that sound financial management and innovative approaches are key to overcoming the challenges that have historically limited progress.
The APHRC’s initiatives aim to enhance the global competitiveness of Nigerian and African research institutions, ensuring they are better equipped to access and manage international research funding effectively.
Article by RB Correspodent
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