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Khisa AM, Wao H, Brizuela V, Compaoré R, Baguiya A, López Gómez A, Bonet M, Kouanda S, Thorson A, Gitau E. Embedding research capacity strengthening in multi-country studies in low-and middle-income countries: learnings from sexual and reproductive health research. Glob Health Action 2024; 17:2338634. [PMID: 38607331 PMCID: PMC11018088 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2024.2338634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Research capacity strengthening (RCS) can empower individuals, institutions, networks, or countries to define and prioritize problems systematically; develop and scientifically evaluate appropriate solutions; and reinforce or improve capacities to translate knowledge into policy and practice. However, how to embed RCS into multi-country studies focusing on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) is largely undocumented. We used findings from a qualitative study, from a review of the literature, and from a validation exercise from a panel of experts from research institutions that work on SRHR RCS. We provide a framework for embedded RCS; suggest a set of seven concrete actions that research project planners, designers, implementers, and funders can utilise to guide embedded RCS activities in low- and middle-income countries; and present a practical checklist for planning and assessing embedded RCS in research projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. Khisa
- Capacity Strengthening and SRHR Research, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hesborn Wao
- Capacity Strengthening and SRHR Research, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Vanessa Brizuela
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Rachidatou Compaoré
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute for Health Sciences, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Adama Baguiya
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute for Health Sciences, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Mercedes Bonet
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Seni Kouanda
- Department of Biomedical and Public Health, Research Institute for Health Sciences, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- African Institute of Public Health, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Anna Thorson
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Evelyn Gitau
- Capacity Strengthening and SRHR Research, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
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Gibas KM, Ahonkhai AA, Huang A, van Wyk C, Tsiga-Ahmed FI, Musa BM, Sani MU, Audet CM, Wester CW, Aliyu MH. The V-BRCH Project: Strengthening HIV Research Capacity in Nigeria through Intensive Workshops in Implementation Science and Grant Writing. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:534-539. [PMID: 38350133 PMCID: PMC10919197 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
As persons with HIV live longer as the result of antiretroviral therapy, morbidity from HIV-associated noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) is increasing. The Vanderbilt-Nigeria Building Research Capacity in HIV and Noncommunicable Diseases program is a training platform created with the goal of training a cohort of successful Nigerian investigators to become leaders in HIV-associated NCD research. We describe survey findings from two week-long workshops in Kano, Nigeria, where trainees received instruction in implementation science and grant writing. Surveys assessed participants' self-perceived knowledge and confidence in topics taught during these workshops. Thirty-seven participants (all assistant professors) attended the implementation science workshop; 30 attended the grant-writing workshop. Response rates for the implementation science workshop were 89.2% for the preworkshop survey and 91.9% for the postworkshop survey. For the grant-writing workshop, these values were 88.2% and 85.3%, respectively. Improvement in participant knowledge and confidence was observed in every domain measured for both workshops. On average, a 101.4% increase in knowledge and a 118.0% increase in confidence was observed across measured domains among participants in the implementation science workshop. For the grant-writing workshop, there was a 68.8% increase in knowledge and a 70.3% increase in confidence observed. Participants rated the workshops and instructors as effective for both workshops. These workshops improved participants' knowledge and competence in implementation science and grant writing, and provide a model for training programs that aim to provide physician scientists with the skills needed to compete for independent funding, conduct locally relevant research, and disseminate research findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M. Gibas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Epidemiology & Infection Prevention, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Aima A. Ahonkhai
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Alexander Huang
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Chelsea van Wyk
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee
| | | | - Baba M. Musa
- Department of Medicine, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Muktar H. Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, Tennessee
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Are C, Murthy SS, Sullivan R, Schissel M, Chowdhury S, Alatise O, Anaya D, Are M, Balch C, Bartlett D, Brennan M, Cairncross L, Clark M, Deo SVS, Dudeja V, D'Ugo D, Fadhil I, Giuliano A, Gopal S, Gutnik L, Ilbawi A, Jani P, Kingham TP, Lorenzon L, Leiphrakpam P, Leon A, Martinez-Said H, McMasters K, Meltzer DO, Mutebi M, Zafar SN, Naik V, Newman L, Oliveira AF, Park DJ, Pramesh CS, Rao S, Subramanyeshwar Rao T, Bargallo-Rocha E, Romanoff A, Rositch AF, Rubio IT, Salvador de Castro Ribeiro H, Sbaity E, Senthil M, Smith L, Toi M, Turaga K, Yanala U, Yip CH, Zaghloul A, Anderson BO. Global Cancer Surgery: pragmatic solutions to improve cancer surgery outcomes worldwide. Lancet Oncol 2023; 24:e472-e518. [PMID: 37924819 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(23)00412-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
The first Lancet Oncology Commission on Global Cancer Surgery was published in 2015 and serves as a landmark paper in the field of cancer surgery. The Commission highlighted the burden of cancer and the importance of cancer surgery, while documenting the many inadequacies in the ability to deliver safe, timely, and affordable cancer surgical care. This Commission builds on the first Commission by focusing on solutions and actions to improve access to cancer surgery globally, developed by drawing upon the expertise from cancer surgery leaders across the world. We present solution frameworks in nine domains that can improve access to cancer surgery. These nine domains were refined to identify solutions specific to the six WHO regions. On the basis of these solutions, we developed eight actions to propel essential improvements in the global capacity for cancer surgery. Our initiatives are broad in scope, pragmatic, affordable, and contextually applicable, and aimed at cancer surgeons as well as leaders, administrators, elected officials, and health policy advocates. We envision that the solutions and actions contained within the Commission will address inequities and promote safe, timely, and affordable cancer surgery for every patient, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandrakanth Are
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Shilpa S Murthy
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Richard Sullivan
- Institute of Cancer Policy, School of Cancer Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Makayla Schissel
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Sanjib Chowdhury
- Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Olesegun Alatise
- Department of Surgery, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Anaya
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Madhuri Are
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Charles Balch
- Department of Surgical Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, Global Cancer Surgery: pragmatic solutions to improve USA
| | - David Bartlett
- Department of Surgery, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Murray Brennan
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lydia Cairncross
- Department of Surgery, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Matthew Clark
- University of Auckland School of Medicine, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - S V S Deo
- Department of Surgical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Domenico D'Ugo
- Department of Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Armando Giuliano
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Satish Gopal
- Center for Global Health, National Cancer Institute, Washington DC, USA
| | - Lily Gutnik
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Andre Ilbawi
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pankaj Jani
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Laura Lorenzon
- Department of Surgery, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Premila Leiphrakpam
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Augusto Leon
- Department of Surgical Oncology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Kelly McMasters
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Hiram C Polk, Jr MD Department of Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - David O Meltzer
- Section of Hospital Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Miriam Mutebi
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Syed Nabeel Zafar
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Vibhavari Naik
- Department of Anesthesiology, Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Lisa Newman
- Department of Surgery, New York-Presbyterian, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Do Joong Park
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - C S Pramesh
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Saieesh Rao
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - T Subramanyeshwar Rao
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Anya Romanoff
- Department of Global Health and Health System Design, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anne F Rositch
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Isabel T Rubio
- Breast Surgical Oncology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Eman Sbaity
- Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maheswari Senthil
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lynette Smith
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Masakazi Toi
- Tokyo Metropolitan Cancer and Infectious Disease Center, Komagome Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiran Turaga
- Department of Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ujwal Yanala
- Surgical Oncology, University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Cheng-Har Yip
- Department of Surgery, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Solano J, Zuniga Gutierrez M, Pinel-Guzmán E, Henriquez G. Barriers and Solutions to Successful Problem-Based Learning Delivery in Developing Countries - A Literature Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e43187. [PMID: 37692650 PMCID: PMC10485879 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Problem-based learning (PBL) was introduced in the 1960s as an alternative to traditional teacher-centered and discipline-based preclinical medical education. A literature review was conducted to explore the barriers and solutions to successful PBL uptake and delivery in developing countries. The review involved the search of articles and scientific studies on PubMed, The Lancet, and Scielo. The review focused on the medical education literature, using as a primary search criterion "problem-based learning" in combination with "developing countries" and "education". The search was limited to articles in Spanish and English published between 2011 and November 2021, except for three articles due to their relevance to the subject. Faculty development programs are the cornerstone when implementing a new methodology in developing countries. Early career development, PBL methodology, and the available assessment options should be the primary learning objectives of these programs. Stakeholders will need to plan using available resources following the experience of other countries and institutions encouraging collaborative development. Evaluation and assessment will be crucial to understand the impact of PBL, and considerations should be taken to implement an integrated curriculum. Medical Education Research should be encouraged, appraised, and disseminated to improve evidence-based decision-making, creating a constant development cycle. PBL is innovative and represents many unanswered questions that will develop in the following decade as more schools implement new methodologies and Research on PBL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhiamluka Solano
- Cardiology, Scunthorpe General Hospital, North Lincolnshire, GBR
- Research and Development, Asociación de Educación Médica Hondureña, Tegucigalpa, HND
| | | | | | - Génesis Henriquez
- Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras, Tegucigalpa, HND
- Medicine, Asociación de Educación Médica Hondureña, Tegucigalpa, HND
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Perier C, Nasinghe E, Charles I, Ssetaba LJ, Ahyong V, Bangs D, Beatty PR, Czudnochowski N, Diallo A, Dugan E, Fabius JM, Fong Baker H, Gardner J, Isaacs S, Joanah B, Kalantar K, Kateete D, Knight M, Krasilnikov M, Krogan NJ, Langelier C, Lee E, Li LM, Licht D, Lien K, Lyons Z, Mboowa G, Mwebaza I, Mwesigwa S, Nalwadda G, Nichols R, Penaranda ME, Petnic S, Phelps M, Popper SJ, Rape M, Reingold A, Robbins R, Rosenberg OS, Savage DF, Schildhauer S, Settles ML, Sserwadda I, Stanley S, Tato CM, Tsitsiklis A, Van Dis E, Vanaerschot M, Vinden J, Cox JS, Joloba ML, Schaletzky J. Workshop-based learning and networking: a scalable model for research capacity strengthening in low- and middle-income countries. Glob Health Action 2022; 15:2062175. [PMID: 35730550 PMCID: PMC9225690 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2062175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Science education and research have the potential to drive profound change in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) through encouraging innovation, attracting industry, and creating job opportunities. However, in LMICs, research capacity is often limited, and acquisition of funding and access to state-of-the-art technologies is challenging. The Alliance for Global Health and Science (the Alliance) was founded as a partnership between the University of California, Berkeley (USA) and Makerere University (Uganda), with the goal of strengthening Makerere University’s capacity for bioscience research. The flagship program of the Alliance partnership is the MU/UCB Biosciences Training Program, an in-country, hands-on workshop model that trains a large number of students from Makerere University in infectious disease and molecular biology research. This approach nucleates training of larger and more diverse groups of students, development of mentoring and bi-directional research partnerships, and support of the local economy. Here, we describe the project, its conception, implementation, challenges, and outcomes of bioscience research workshops. We aim to provide a blueprint for workshop implementation, and create a valuable resource for bioscience research capacity strengthening in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Perier
- H. Wheeler Center for Emerging & Neglected Diseases (CEND), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Isabelle Charles
- H. Wheeler Center for Emerging & Neglected Diseases (CEND), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Vida Ahyong
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Derek Bangs
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - P Robert Beatty
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Amy Diallo
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eli Dugan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jacqueline M Fabius
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hildy Fong Baker
- School of Public Health, Center for Global Public Health (CGPH), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jackson Gardner
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Birungi Joanah
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - David Kateete
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Matt Knight
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Maria Krasilnikov
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Tufts Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nevan J Krogan
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Gladstone Institute of Data Science and Biotechnology, J. David Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Eric Lee
- Graduate Group in Infectious Diseases and Immunity, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Lucy M Li
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Daniel Licht
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Katie Lien
- Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Zilose Lyons
- California China Climate Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Gerald Mboowa
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ivan Mwebaza
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Robert Nichols
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Sarah Petnic
- Quality and Clinical Excellence Department, Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, Napa, CA, USA
| | | | - Stephen J Popper
- Sustainable Sciences Institute, San Francisco, CA, USA.,School of Public Health, Department of Infectious Disease and Vaccinology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Michael Rape
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Arthur Reingold
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Oren S Rosenberg
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - David F Savage
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Ivan Sserwadda
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sarah Stanley
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Division of Infectious Disease and Vaccinology, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Erik Van Dis
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Joanna Vinden
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunity, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jeffery S Cox
- H. Wheeler Center for Emerging & Neglected Diseases (CEND), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Moses L Joloba
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Julia Schaletzky
- H. Wheeler Center for Emerging & Neglected Diseases (CEND), University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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Gebresilassie KY, Wami SD, Baraki AG, Kassie BA. Factors Associated with Research knowledge and Attitude among Clinical Midwives Working at Public Health Facilities of Northwest Ethiopia, 2021: A Cross-Sectional Study. ADVANCES IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE 2022; 13:661-670. [PMID: 35822060 PMCID: PMC9271280 DOI: 10.2147/amep.s359651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence-based care is pivotal in health, and needs experience and scientific evidence. Clinical midwives are busy with patient care and not involved in research, so their research knowledge and attitudes are not scientifically assessed. Our study aimed to address this gap so as to help set interventions to provide evidence-based midwifery care. METHODS An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2021 among clinical midwives working at public health facilities in Ethiopia. A structured and pretested self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data, which were transferred to Epi Info software. Descriptive statistics explained the variables. To identify factors, bivariate and multivariate (for knowledge) and ordinal logistic regression and correlations (for attitudes) were computed using Stata 14. P≤0.05 was taken as significant. ORs and Spearman correlation coefficients are also reported. RESULTS Of 335 originally selected, 314 participated, for a response rate of 93.7%. In sum, 154 (49%, 95% CI 43.5%-54.6%) had good knowledge on research. Having taken a research-methods course (AOR 6.93, 95% CI 3.37-14.24), having research skills (AOR 2.25, 95% CI 1.30, 3.91), and having participated in research (AOR 3.08, 95% CI 1.37-6.90) showed significant associations with good knowledge on research. Of all, 252 (80.3%, 95% CI 84.8%-92.1%) had positive attitudes toward research. Age and having a positive attitude in the independent variables were significant predictors of a positive attitude toward research. There was a significantly positive correlation (ρ=0.183, P=0.001) between knowledge and attitudes toward research. CONCLUSION Although a majority had a positive attitude, a significant proportion had poor knowledge of research. Provision of capacity-building activities (training and opportunities) and allocated time for research are important for the provision of evidence-based midwifery care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keflie Y Gebresilassie
- University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Sintayehu D Wami
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Adhanom G Baraki
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Belayneh A Kassie
- School of Midwifery, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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7
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Gebresilassie KY, Baraki AG, Kassie BA, Wami SD. Midwifery-led researches for evidence-based practice: Clinical midwives engagement in research in Ethiopia, 2021. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268697. [PMID: 35657804 PMCID: PMC9165898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Health workers involvement in research had an impact on studies and whole system. They influence the clinical practice and help to implement evidences. Although International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) put research as one of the midwifery competencies and professional development activity, clinical midwives are poorly involved in research. Therefore, this study is aimed to assess clinical midwives engagement in research and bridge the gap through applicable strategies. Method Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among clinical midwives working at public health facilities of Central and North Gondar Zone, Ethiopia from September to October, 2020 G.C. A structured and pre-tested self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data and entered into Epi-info version 7. Descriptive statistics was used to describe study population. Bi-variable and multi-variable logistic regression analysis was performed using STATA Version 14 and significance level declared at 95% confidence interval, p-value ≤ 0.05 and respective odds ratios. Result Out of 335 clinical midwives, 314 were participated making the response rate 93.7%. Among the midwives, one hundred seventy two (54.8%) (95% CI: 49.08%, 60.37) have good skill on conducting a research. Clinical midwives with mothers with formal education [AOR: 1.90, 95% CI: (1.03, 3.51), currently work on referral hospitals [AOR: 2.33, 95% CI: (1.19, 4.53)] and having good level of knowledge on research [AOR: 2.19, 95% CI: (1.25, 3.82)] have significant association with having good research skill. Forty eight (15.2%) (95% CI: 11.5%, 19.7%) ever participated in research during their clinical practice. Clinical midwives who have good knowledge on research [AOR: 0.31, 95% CI: (0.14, 0.70)] are about 0.3 times less likely to participate on research than who have poor knowledge [AOR: 0.31, 95% CI: (0.14, 0.70)]. Conclusion and recommendation Although more than half have good research skill, only a small proportion of midwives were involved in research. Capacity building activities are crucial to strengthen midwives skill on research and ensure their involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sintayehu Daba Wami
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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8
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Darling S, Harvey B, Hickey GM. On the individual and organizational capacities supporting impact assessment: the case of the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board. Facets (Ott) 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Impact assessment (IA) processes rely on the ability of assessment boards and their assessors to gather, synthesize, and interpret knowledge from a variety of sources, making IA a knowledge-based activity. IA boards in northern Canada operate in a context that prioritizes pluralism, where Indigenous knowledge is a key element of decision-making and the ability of practitioners to interact with knowledge—research capacity—affects process effectiveness, credibility, and legitimacy. Drawing on common principles from existing research capacity frameworks, we identify the dimensions of capacity most relevant to more fully realizing inclusive impact assessment processes. We then examine the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board (YESAB) as a specialized environmental governance organization with assessors whose research capacity directly impacts process outcomes. Results show that while common dimensions across knowledge-based disciplines, such as sufficient resources (e.g., financial support), are often addressed in the YESAB context, others unique to IA, like contextual understanding, require further examination. The interaction between individual and organizational research capacity is a complex balance between investing in individuals and investing in organizational supports. The proposed framework facilitates multi-scalar supports for individual assessors and assessment bodies alike to navigate balancing technical and value-driven knowledge in assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Darling
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Macdonald-Stewart Building, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Blane Harvey
- Department of Integrated Studies in Education, McGill University, Room 244, Education Building, 3700 McTavish Street, Montreal, QC H3A 1Y2, Canada
| | - Gordon M. Hickey
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Macdonald-Stewart Building, 21111 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC H9X 3V9, Canada
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Wakida EK, Atuhaire CD, Karungi CK, Maling S, Obua C. Mbarara University Research Training Initiative: Experiences and Accomplishments of the MEPI Junior D43 TW010128 Award in Uganda. ADVANCES IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE 2021; 12:1397-1410. [PMID: 34887692 PMCID: PMC8650769 DOI: 10.2147/amep.s339752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2015, Mbarara University of Science and Technology was awarded the Mbarara University Research Training Initiative (MURTI) under grant number D43 TW010128 to build capacity of junior faculty to become the next generation of researchers in Africa. In this paper, we document the experiences and achievements of the research capacity building efforts at MUST. METHODS We conducted a descriptive evaluation study which involved document review and in-depth interviews. We used "Reach" and 'Effectiveness' from the RE-AIM framework to guide the document review, and the organizational theory of implementation effectiveness to guide the in-depth interviews. RESULTS In the MURTI program, we conducted 17 short courses between August 2015 and July 2021, a total of 6597 attendances were recorded. The most attended courses were responsible conduct of research (n = 826), qualitative research methods (n = 744), and data management (n = 613). Thirty-three fellows were recruited and funded to conduct mentored research leading to 48 publications and 14 extramural grant applications were yielded. From the in-depth interviews, the participants appreciated the research training program, the enhanced research skills attained, and the institutional capacity built. They attributed the success of the program to the training approach of using short courses, readiness of the junior faculty to change, and the supportive environment by the mentors and trainers in the program. CONCLUSION The D43 TW010128 research training grant-built capacity for the junior faculty at MUST, enhanced their research skills, promoted research capacity institutionally and provided career development for the junior faculty. This was possible due to the positive attitude of the junior faculty (organizational readiness) to change and the supportive environment (mentors and trainers) during implementation of the grant. These two factors provided a favorable institutional climate that guaranteed success of the funding goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith K Wakida
- Office of Research Administration, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Clara D Atuhaire
- Office of Research Administration, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Christine K Karungi
- Office of Research Administration, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Samuel Maling
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Celestino Obua
- Office of the Vice Chancellor, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
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Wao H, Wang Y, Wao MA, Were JA. Factors associated with North-South research collaboration focusing on HIV/AIDS: lessons from ClinicalTrials.gov. AIDS Res Ther 2021; 18:54. [PMID: 34433475 PMCID: PMC8385695 DOI: 10.1186/s12981-021-00376-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A North-South (N-S) research collaboration is one way through which research capacity of developing countries can be strengthened. Whereas N-S collaboration in HIV/AIDS area may result in research capacity strengthening of Southern partners, it is not clear what factors are associated with this type of collaboration. The study aims to characterize N-S research collaboration focusing on HIV/AIDS and to determine factors associated with such N-S research collaborations. METHODS Clinical trial data on HIV/AIDS-related studies conducted between 2000 and 2019 were obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov. Using these data, we characterized N-S collaborative studies focusing on HIV/AIDS and summarized them using frequencies and percentages. To determine factors associated with these studies, we used logistic regression and reported results as adjusted odds ratios with Wald 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Of the 4,832 HIV/AIDS-related studies retrieved from the registry, less than one-quarter (n = 1133, 23%) involved a Southern institution, with 77% of these studies classified as N-S collaborations. Majority of these studies have single PI (50%), are conducted at single location (39%); have large sample sizes (41%); are federally-funded (32%) or receive funding from other sources (32%); are intervention studies (64%); and involve a mixture of male and female participants (58%) and adult participants (54%). Single PIs (as opposed to multiple PIs) were more likely to be from the North than South institution (odds ratio = 5.59, 95%CI: 4.16 - 11.57). Trend analyses showed that N-S research collaborations produced HIV/AIDS-related studies at a faster rate than S-S research collaborations. N-S collaborations involving female or children produced HIV/AIDS-related studies between 2000 and 2019 at a significantly faster rate than S-S collaborations involving females and children during the same period. Holding other factors constant, N-S collaborative research focusing on HIV/AIDS are associated with: multiple PIs as opposed to single PI, multiple institutions as opposed to a single institution, multiple locations as opposed to a single location, large number of participants as opposed to small sample sizes, and public funding as opposed to industry funding. Almost half of these studies had a Northern PI only, about one-third had a Southern PI only, and much fewer had PIs from both North and South. However, these studies were less likely to receive funding from other sources than industry funding. CONCLUSIONS HIV/AIDS-related research is increasingly becoming a more collaborative global research involving more N-S collaborations than S-S collaborations. Factors associated with N-S collaborative studies focusing on HIV/AIDS include multiple PIs, institutions, and locations; large sample sizes; publicly funded; and involve vulnerable populations such as women and children. Whereas almost half of these studies have a Northern PI only, about one-third have a Southern PI only, and much fewer have PIs from both North and South. Our results inform future design and implementation of N-S research collaborations in this area. Suggestions for improvement of ClinicalTrials.gov registry are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesborn Wao
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Yan Wang
- African Population and Health Research Center, APHRC Campus, Manga Close, Off Kirawa Road, P.O. Box 10787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Urban Health Collaborative, Drexel University, 3600 Market Street, 7th Floor, Philadelphia, PA USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 La Conte Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Melvin A. Wao
- United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa). Off USIU Road, Off Thika Road (Exit 7), P. O. Box 14634-00800, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Juliana A. Were
- The Management University of Africa (MUA), Popo Rd, Off Mombasa Road, Belleview, South C., P. O. Box 29677-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
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Sombié I, Bamouni SF, Somé DT, Johnson E, Aidam J. From training to practice: a report of professional capacity development in Health Research in West Africa. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 21:259. [PMID: 33952211 PMCID: PMC8101165 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-02696-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between 2008 and 2013, the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) conducted a series of post-graduate capacity building in research methodology in West Africa. This work evaluated the contribution of these trainings in terms of knowledge acquisition and influence of research and policy practice. Cooke's conceptual framework for assessing research capacity building was used with three data sources to construct the indicators (training reports, research project implementation reports and WAHO research programme evaluation report). RESULTS There was an improvement in the knowledge of the 84 participants between the pre- and post-test. At the end of the training, the learners developed 19 protocols, 14 of which were finalised, financed and implemented, reflecting the learners' confidence to engage in research at the end of the training. The implementation of the protocols was conducted with the partnership and collaboration between the agents of the control programmes and the research centres. Some research results have been disseminated and a small portion used to strengthen the programmes. CONCLUSION This evaluation showed that the training was linked to practice with little publication and use of the results to improve the programmes. This regional capacity building programme should be maintained and strengthened by adding modules in data analysis, scientific communication and knowledge transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issiaka Sombié
- West African Health Organisation, 175, Avenue Ouezzin Coulibaly, Bobo Dioulasso 01, 01 BP 153, Burkina Faso.
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Santé, Université Nazi Boni, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
| | | | - Donmozoun Télesphore Somé
- Société d'Etudes et de Recherche en Santé Publique (SERSAP), Ouagadougou 06, 06 BP 9150, Burkina Faso
| | - Ermel Johnson
- West African Health Organisation, 175, Avenue Ouezzin Coulibaly, Bobo Dioulasso 01, 01 BP 153, Burkina Faso
| | - Jude Aidam
- West African Health Organisation, 175, Avenue Ouezzin Coulibaly, Bobo Dioulasso 01, 01 BP 153, Burkina Faso
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Abstract
Background Training and mentorship in research skills are essential to developing a critical mass of researchers in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, reporting on the details of such training programs, especially regarding the cost of the training, is limited. Objectives This paper describes a year-long operational research training and mentorship course in Rwanda, implemented between 2013 and 2017. Approach We describe motivations for the design of the Intermediate Operational Research Training Course (IORT) across four iterations. We also report outputs, evaluate trainee experiences, and estimate training and mentorship costs. Findings Of the 132 applicants to the course, 55 (41.7%) were selected, and 53 (96.4%) completed the training. The ratio of female-to-male trainees in the course increased from 1:8 in 2013 to 1:3 in 2017. Trainees developed and co-first-authored 28 research manuscripts, 96.4% (n = 27) of which are published in peer-reviewed journals. For the 15 trainees who completed the post-course evaluation, 93.3% and 86.7% reported improvement in their research and analytical skills, respectively. The median cost per trainee to complete the course was US$908 (Range: US$739-US$1,253) and per research project was US$2,708 (US$1,748-US$6,741). The median annual training delivery and mentorship cost was US$47,170 (US$30,563-US$63,849) for a course with a Rwanda-based senior mentor, junior mentor, and training coordinator. The total essential cost for a year-long IORT course with 16 trainees co-leading eight research projects and mentored by two senior and four junior mentors was US$101,254 (US$73,486-US$157,569). Conclusion We attribute the high course completion rates, publication rates, and skills acquisition to the learning-by-doing approach and intensive hands-on mentorship provided in the course. IORT was costly and funded through institutional resources and international partnerships. We encourage funders to prioritize comprehensive research capacity-building initiatives that provide intensive mentorship as these are likely to improve the pool of skilled researchers in LMICs.
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Fatima R, Yaqoob A, Qadeer E, Hinderaker SG, Heldal E, Zachariah R, Harries AD, Kumar AMV. Building sustainable operational research capacity in Pakistan: starting with tuberculosis and expanding to other public health problems. Glob Health Action 2019; 12:1555215. [PMID: 31154986 PMCID: PMC6327920 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2018.1555215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: For many years, operational research capacity has been a challenge and has remained a low priority for the health sector in Pakistan. Building research capacity for developing a critical mass of researchers in Pakistan was done through Structured Operational Research and Training Initiative (SORT IT) courses in Paris and Asia between 2010 and 2016. Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the journey of SORT-IT in Pakistan from its inception to progressive expansion and discuss the challenges and ways forward. Methods: The journey began with the training of the Pakistan NTP research team lead in 2010 in an international SORT IT course at Paris. This was followed by training of two team members in Asia SORT IT courses in 2014 and 2015. These three then worked together to conceive and implement the first national Pakistan SORT IT course supported by WHO/TDR and the Global Fund in 2016. This was facilitated by international facilitators and local trained SORT-IT participants from Paris and Asia. This was followed by two further national SORT IT courses in 2017 and 2018. Results: Between 2010 and 2017, a total of 34 participants from Pakistan had been enrolled in national and international SORT IT courses. Of the 23 participants from completed courses, 18(78%) successfully completed the course. In total 18 papers were submitted and up until June 2018, 15(83%) have been published and 21 institutions in Pakistan involved with operational research as a result of the SORT IT initiative. Conclusions: The SORT IT course has been an effective way to build operational research capacity at national level and this has resulted in a large number of published papers providing local evidence for decision making on TB and other disease control programmes. The experience from Pakistan should stimulate other countries to adopt the SORT-IT model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razia Fatima
- a Research Department , National TB Control Program , Islamabad , Pakistan
| | - Aashifa Yaqoob
- a Research Department , National TB Control Program , Islamabad , Pakistan
| | - Ejaz Qadeer
- b Department of Hospital Management Information System , Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences , Islamabad , Pakistan
| | | | - Einar Heldal
- d Department of Tuberculosis, Blood Borne and Sexually Transmissible Infections , Norwegian Institute of Public Health , Oslo , Norway
| | - Rony Zachariah
- e Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases TDR, World Health Organization , Geneva , Switzerland
| | - Anthony D Harries
- f International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease , Paris , France.,g Department of Clinical Research , London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - Ajay M V Kumar
- h International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, South-East Asia Regional Office , New Delhi , India
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Gómez L, Jaramillo A, Halpaap B, Launois P, Cuervo LG, Saravia NG. Building research capacity through "Planning for Success". PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007426. [PMID: 31369556 PMCID: PMC6675041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ligia Gómez
- Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas, Cali, Colombia
| | - Andrés Jaramillo
- Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas, Cali, Colombia
- Universidad Icesi, Cali, Colombia
| | - Beatrice Halpaap
- UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Launois
- UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Luis Gabriel Cuervo
- Health Services and Access Unit, Department of Health Systems and Services of the Pan-American Health Organization/World Health Organization, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Nancy Gore Saravia
- Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas, Cali, Colombia
- Universidad Icesi, Cali, Colombia
- * E-mail:
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Kimball AM, Harper D, Creamer K, Adeyemi A, Yates R, Lillywhite L, Told M, Heymann DL. Strengthening Public Health Leadership in Africa: An Innovative Fellowship Program. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2019; 94:1146-1149. [PMID: 30870155 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000002707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM The Ebola virus disease crisis in West Africa revealed critical weaknesses in health policy and systems in the region, including the poor development and retention of policy leaders able to set sound policy to improve health. Innovative models for enhancing the capabilities of emerging leaders while retaining their talent in their countries are vital. APPROACH Chatham House (London, United Kingdom) established the West African Global Health Leaders Fellowship to help develop the next generation of West African public health leaders. The innovative program took a unique approach: Six weeks of intensive practical leadership and policy training in London and Geneva bookended a 10-month policy project conceived and carried out by each fellow in their home country. The program emphasized practice, site visits and observation of U.K. public health organizations, identifying resources, and networking. Strong mentorship throughout the fieldwork was a central focus. Work on the pilot phase began in June 2016; the fellows completed their program in September 2017. OUTCOMES The pilot phase of the fellowship was successful, demonstrating that this "sandwich" model for fellowships-whereby participants receive focused leadership training at the start and end of the program, minimally disrupting their lives in-country-offers exciting possibilities for enhancing leadership skills while retaining talent within Africa. NEXT STEPS On the basis of this successful pilot, a second cohort of eight fellows began the program in October 2018. The expanded African Public Health Leaders Fellowship has become a central activity of Chatham House's Centre on Global Health Security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Marie Kimball
- A.M. Kimball is senior consulting fellow and director, pilot phase, Fellows Program, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom, and professor emerita, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, Washington. D. Harper is senior consulting fellow, Chatham House, and honorary professor, London School of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, London, United Kingdom, and honorary professor, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom. K. Creamer is former program manager, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom. A. Adeyemi is assistant director, Fellows Program, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom. R. Yates is programme director, Universal Health Care Policy Forum, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom. L. Lillywhite is senior consulting fellow, Chatham House, London, United Kingdom; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5328-6805. M. Told is executive director, Global Health Centre, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, Geneva, Switzerland. D.L. Heymann is director, Centre on Global Health Security, director, African Fellows Programme, Chatham House, and professor, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Hedt-Gauthier BL, Riviello R, Nkurunziza T, Kateera F. Growing research in global surgery with an eye towards equity. Br J Surg 2019; 106:e151-e155. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.11066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Global surgery research is often generated through collaborative partnerships between researchers from both low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs). Inequitable engagement of LMIC collaborators can limit the impact of the research.
Methods
This article describes evidence of inequities in the conduct of global surgery research and outlines reasons why the inequities in this research field may be more acute than in other global health research disciplines. The paper goes on to describe activities for building a collaborative research portfolio in rural Rwanda.
Results
Inequities in global surgery research collaborations can be attributed to: a limited number and experience of researchers working in this field; time constraints on both HIC and LMIC global surgery researchers; and surgical journal policies. Approaches to build a robust, collaborative research portfolio in Rwanda include leading research trainings focused on global surgery projects, embedding surgical fellows in Rwanda to provide bidirectional research training and outlining all research products, ensuring that all who are engaged have opportunities to grow in capacities, including leading research, and that collaborators share opportunities equitably. Of the 22 published or planned papers, half are led by Rwandan researchers, and the research now has independent research funding.
Conclusion
It is unacceptable to gather data from an LMIC without meaningful engagement in all aspects of the research and sharing opportunities with local collaborators. The strategies outlined here can help research teams build global surgery research portfolios that optimize the potential for equitable engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- B L Hedt-Gauthier
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Partners In Health/Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - R Riviello
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Surgery and Public Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - F Kateera
- Partners In Health/Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
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Kramer B, Libhaber E. Closing the barrier between disease and health outcomes in Africa through research and capacity development. Glob Health Action 2018; 11:1425597. [PMID: 29370732 PMCID: PMC5795707 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2018.1425597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the burden of disease in Africa is high, health research emanating from the continent is low. Building human capacity and research infrastructure to close the gap between research and disease is thus of great imporatance. OBJECTIVE In order to improve research outputs and postgraduate training in the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, the Health Sciences Research Office put in place a series of strategic initiatives over time. METHODS A range of strategic activities, for both postgraduate students and academic staff, were developed in parallel and sequentially over a period of approximately nine years (2008-2016). The latter years were a time of consolidation of the programmes. Outcomes of these activities were 'measured' by increases in publications, decreases in time to graduation and enrichment of the research environment. RESULTS A doubling of research publications and an increase in citations occurred over the period under review. In addition, there was a decrease in the time postgraduate students took to graduate. CONCLUSIONS A varied, but structured research management plan may be of value in African and other developing health sciences institutions to enable the increase in research outputs and capacity development, desperately needed to close the barrier between disease and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley Kramer
- a Health Sciences Research Office , University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa.,b School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Elena Libhaber
- a Health Sciences Research Office , University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa
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Cooke J, Gardois P, Booth A. Uncovering the mechanisms of research capacity development in health and social care: a realist synthesis. Health Res Policy Syst 2018; 16:93. [PMID: 30241484 PMCID: PMC6150992 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-018-0363-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research capacity development (RCD) is considered fundamental to closing the evidence-practice gap, thereby contributing to health, wealth and knowledge for practice. Numerous frameworks and models have been proposed for RCD, but there is little evidence of what works for whom and under what circumstances. There is a need to identify mechanisms by which candidate interventions or clusters of interventions might achieve RCD and contribute to societal impact, thereby proving meaningful to stakeholders. METHODS A realist synthesis was used to develop programme theories for RCD. Structured database searches were conducted across seven databases to identify papers examining RCD in a health or social care context (1998-2013). In addition, citation searches for 10 key articles (citation pearls) were conducted across Google Scholar and Web of Science. Of 214 included articles, 116 reported on specific interventions or initiatives or their evaluation. The remaining 98 articles were discussion papers or explicitly sought to make a theoretical contribution. A core set of 36 RCD theoretical and conceptual papers were selected and analysed to generate mechanisms that map across macro contexts (individual, team, organisational, network). Data were extracted by means of 'If-Then' statements into an Excel spreadsheet. Models and frameworks were deconstructed into their original elements. RESULTS Eight overarching programme theories were identified featuring mechanisms that were triggered across multiple contexts. Three of these fulfilled a symbolic role in signalling the importance of RCD (e.g. positive role models, signal importance, make a difference), whilst the remainder were more functional (e.g. liberate talents, release resource, exceed sum of parts, learning by doing and co-production of knowledge). Outcomes from one mechanism produced changes in context to stimulate mechanisms in other activities. The eight programme theories were validated with findings from 10 systematic reviews (2014-2017). CONCLUSIONS This realist synthesis is the starting point for constructing an RCD framework shaped by these programme theories. Future work is required to further test and refine these findings against empirical data from intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Cooke
- NIHR CLAHRC Yorkshire & Humber, Research Capacity and Engagement Programme Management, 11 Broomfield Road, Sheffield, S10 2SE, United Kingdom
| | - Paolo Gardois
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrew Booth
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Regent Court, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, S1 4DA, United Kingdom.
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Odhiambo J, Amoroso CL, Barebwanuwe P, Warugaba C, Hedt-Gauthier BL. Adapting operational research training to the Rwandan context: the Intermediate Operational Research Training programme. Glob Health Action 2018; 10:1386930. [PMID: 29119872 PMCID: PMC5700541 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2017.1386930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Promoting national health research agendas in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) requires adequate numbers of individuals with skills to initiate and conduct research. Recently, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have joined research capacity building efforts to increase research leadership by LMIC nationals. Partners In Health, an international NGO operating in Rwanda, implemented its first Intermediate Operational Research Training (IORT) course to cultivate Rwandan research talent and generate evidence to improve health care delivery. Objective: This paper describes the implementation of IORT to share experiences with other organizations interested in developing similar training programmes. Methods: The Intermediate Operational Research Training utilized a deliverable-driven training model, using learning-by-doing pedagogy with intensive hands-on mentorship to build research skills from protocol development to scientific publication. The course had short (two-day) but frequent training sessions (seven sessions over eight months). Trainees were clinical and programme staff working at the district level who were paired to jointly lead a research project. Results: Of 10 trainees admitted to the course from a pool of 24 applicants, nine trainees completed the course with five research projects published in peer-reviewed journals. Strengths of the course included supportive national and institutional research capacity guidelines, building from a successful training model, and trainee commitment. Challenges included delays in ethical review, high mentorship workload of up to 250 hours of practicum mentorship, lack of access to literature in subscription journals and high costs of open access publication. Conclusions: The IORT course was an effective way to support the district-based government and NGO staff in gaining research skills, as well as answering research questions relevant to health service delivery at district hospitals. Other NGOs should build on successful programmes while adapting course elements to address context-specific challenges. Mentorship for LMIC trainees is critical for effectiveness of research capacity building initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackline Odhiambo
- a Research Department , Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima , Kigali , Rwanda
| | - Cheryl L Amoroso
- a Research Department , Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima , Kigali , Rwanda
| | - Peter Barebwanuwe
- a Research Department , Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima , Kigali , Rwanda
| | - Christine Warugaba
- a Research Department , Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima , Kigali , Rwanda
| | - Bethany L Hedt-Gauthier
- a Research Department , Partners In Health/Inshuti Mu Buzima , Kigali , Rwanda.,b Department of Global Health and Social Medicine , Harvard Medical School , Boston , MA , USA
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Capacity to conduct health research among NGOs in Malawi: Diverse strengths, needs and opportunities for development. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198721. [PMID: 29975706 PMCID: PMC6033378 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in health research has attracted growing attention. NGOs are important service providers and advocates in international health, and conducting research can help NGOs to strengthen these service delivery and advocacy activities. However, capacity to conduct research varies among NGOs. There is currently limited evidence on NGOs’ research capacity that can explain why capacity varies or indicate potential areas for support. We examined NGOs’ capacity to conduct research, identifying factors that affect their access to the funds, time and skills needed to undertake research. Methods We examined research capacity through qualitative case studies of three NGOs in Malawi, including one national and two international NGOs. Data were generated through interviews and focus groups with NGO staff, observation of NGO activities, and document reviews. Results Availability of funding, skills and time to conduct research varies considerably between the case NGOs. Access to these resources is affected by internal processes such as sources of funding and prioritisation of research, and by the wider environment and external relationships, including the nature of donor support. Constraints include limited ability to apply for research funding, a perception that donors will not support research costs, lack of funding to hire or train research staff, and prioritisation of service delivery over research in funding proposals and staff schedules. Conclusion The findings suggest strategies for NGOs and for donors interested in supporting NGOs’ research capacity. Above all, the findings reinforce the importance of initial capacity assessments to identify organisational needs and opportunities. In addition, the need for time and funding as well as skills suggests that strengthening NGOs’ research capacity will often require more than research training.
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Ganju D, Mahapatra B, Adhikary R, Patel SK, Saggurti N, Dallabetta G. Building the evidence base on the HIV programme in India: an integrated approach to document programmatic learnings. Health Res Policy Syst 2018. [PMID: 29530047 PMCID: PMC5848569 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-018-0291-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Knowledge Network project was launched in 2010 to build evidence on the HIV epidemic by using the data generated by HIV programme implementing organisations in India. This paper describes the implementation of the programme and the strategies adopted to enhance the capacity of individuals to document and publish HIV prevention programme learnings. Further, it discusses the outcomes of the initiative. Methods A multipronged approach was adopted, where a group of experts were brought together to collaborate with programme implementing organisations, review available data, develop research questions and guide peer-reviewed publications. Further, scientific writing courses were conducted to support individuals from HIV programme implementing organisations as well as educational and government organisations (mentees) to build the documentation capacity of individuals leading programme implementation and current and future researchers. The impact and quality of evidence generated was measured by examining the number of papers published, the number of citations, and the number of papers with at least 10 citations. Additionally, course participants’ responses to open-ended questions in the anonymous course evaluation questionnaires are presented as verbatim quotes. Results Overall, 99 papers on HIV programmatic learnings from India were finalised under the programme, of which 95 have been published. In all, 67 papers were co-authored by mentees. Most papers were published in high-impact factor (1 or more) journals and 72% were cited at least once in the literature. The main themes documented include key populations’ HIV risk, HIV risk of general population groups, HIV/STI service delivery models and community mobilisation interventions. Conclusion The study demonstrates that an integrated approach, involving partnership, capacity-building and mentorship, can maximise the use of available data and build the evidence base on HIV programmatic learnings. The capacity-building model adopted in the programme can be used to build scientific writing and documentation capacity in other public health programmes that are implemented at scale. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12961-018-0291-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorised users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Ganju
- HIV and AIDS Program, Population Council, 142 Golf Links, New Delhi, 110003, India.
| | | | | | - Sangram Kishor Patel
- HIV and AIDS Program, Population Council, 142 Golf Links, New Delhi, 110003, India
| | - Niranjan Saggurti
- HIV and AIDS Program, Population Council, 142 Golf Links, New Delhi, 110003, India
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Ezeanolue EE, Menson WNA, Patel D, Aarons G, Olutola A, Obiefune M, Dakum P, Okonkwo P, Gobir B, Akinmurele T, Nwandu A, Khamofu H, Oyeledun B, Aina M, Eyo A, Oleribe O, Ibanga I, Oko J, Anyaike C, Idoko J, Aliyu MH, Sturke R. Gaps and strategies in developing health research capacity: experience from the Nigeria Implementation Science Alliance. Health Res Policy Syst 2018; 16:10. [PMID: 29433577 PMCID: PMC5809995 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-018-0289-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite being disproportionately burdened by preventable diseases than more advanced countries, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to trail behind other parts of the world in the number, quality and impact of scholarly activities by their health researchers. Our strategy at the Nigerian Implementation Science Alliance (NISA) is to utilise innovative platforms that catalyse collaboration, enhance communication between different stakeholders, and promote the uptake of evidence-based interventions in improving healthcare delivery. This article reports on findings from a structured group exercise conducted at the 2016 NISA Conference to identify (1) gaps in developing research capacity and (2) potential strategies to address these gaps. METHODS A 1-hour structured group exercise was conducted with 15 groups of 2-9 individuals (n = 94) to brainstorm gaps for implementation, strategies to address gaps and to rank their top 3 in each category. Qualitative thematic analysis was used. First, duplicate responses were merged and analyses identified emerging themes. Each of the gaps and strategies identified were categorised as falling into the purview of policy-makers, researchers, implementing partners or multiple groups. RESULTS Participating stakeholders identified 98 gaps and 91 strategies related to increasing research capacity in Nigeria. A total of 45 gaps and an equal number of strategies were ranked; 39 gaps and 43 strategies were then analysed, from which 8 recurring themes emerged for gaps (lack of sufficient funding, poor research focus in education, inadequate mentorship and training, inadequate research infrastructure, lack of collaboration between researchers, research-policy dissonance, lack of motivation for research, lack of leadership buy-in for research) and 7 themes emerged for strategies (increased funding for research, improved research education, improved mentorship and training, improved infrastructure for research, increased collaboration between academic/research institutions, greater engagement between researchers and policy-makers, greater leadership buy-in for research). CONCLUSIONS The gaps and strategies identified in this study represent pathways judged to be important in increasing research and implementation science capacity in Nigeria. The inclusion of perspectives and involvement of stakeholders who play different roles in policy, research and implementation activities makes these findings comprehensive, relevant and actionable, not only in Nigeria but in other similar LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Echezona E Ezeanolue
- School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, United States of America. .,Healthy Sunrise Foundation, Las Vegas, NV, United States of America.
| | - William Nii Ayitey Menson
- School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, United States of America
| | - Dina Patel
- School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, United States of America.,Healthy Sunrise Foundation, Las Vegas, NV, United States of America
| | - Gregory Aarons
- University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Michael Obiefune
- Healthy Sunrise Foundation, Las Vegas, NV, United States of America.,Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | | | | | - Bola Gobir
- Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | | | - Anthea Nwandu
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Andy Eyo
- Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Obinna Oleribe
- Excellence and Friends Management Consult, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - John Oko
- Catholic Caritas Foundation Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - John Idoko
- National Agency for Control of AIDS, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Muktar H Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States of America
| | - Rachel Sturke
- Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
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Hedt-Gauthier BL, Chilengi R, Jackson E, Michel C, Napua M, Odhiambo J, Bawah A. Research capacity building integrated into PHIT projects: leveraging research and research funding to build national capacity. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:825. [PMID: 29297405 PMCID: PMC5763288 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2657-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inadequate research capacity impedes the development of evidence-based health programming in sub-Saharan Africa. However, funding for research capacity building (RCB) is often insufficient and restricted, limiting institutions’ ability to address current RCB needs. The Doris Duke Charitable Foundation’s African Health Initiative (AHI) funded Population Health Implementation and Training (PHIT) partnership projects in five African countries (Ghana, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zambia) to implement health systems strengthening initiatives inclusive of RCB. Methods Using Cooke’s framework for RCB, RCB activity leaders from each country reported on RCB priorities, activities, program metrics, ongoing challenges and solutions. These were synthesized by the authorship team, identifying common challenges and lessons learned. Results For most countries, each of the RCB domains from Cooke’s framework was a high priority. In about half of the countries, domain specific activities happened prior to PHIT. During PHIT, specific RCB activities varied across countries. However, all five countries used AHI funding to improve research administrative support and infrastructure, implement research trainings and support mentorship activities and research dissemination. While outcomes data were not systematically collected, countries reported holding 54 research trainings, forming 56 mentor-mentee relationships, training 201 individuals and awarding 22 PhD and Masters-level scholarships. Over the 5 years, 116 manuscripts were developed. Of the 59 manuscripts published in peer-reviewed journals, 29 had national first authors and 18 had national senior authors. Trainees participated in 99 conferences and projects held 37 forums with policy makers to facilitate research translation into policy. Conclusion All five PHIT projects strongly reported an increase in RCB activities and commended the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation for prioritizing RCB, funding RCB at adequate levels and time frames and for allowing flexibility in funding so that each project could implement activities according to their trainees’ needs. As a result, many common challenges for RCB, such as adequate resources and local and international institutional support, were not identified as major challenges for these projects. Overall recommendations are for funders to provide adequate and flexible funding for RCB activities and for institutions to offer a spectrum of RCB activities to enable continued growth, provide adequate mentorship for trainees and systematically monitor RCB activities. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12913-017-2657-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany L Hedt-Gauthier
- Partners In Health, Kigali, Rwanda. .,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Roma Chilengi
- Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia.,University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Elizabeth Jackson
- Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City, USA
| | - Cathy Michel
- Health Alliance International, Beira, Mozambique
| | - Manuel Napua
- Beira Operational Research Center, National Institute of Health, Beira, Mozambique
| | | | - Ayaga Bawah
- Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City, USA.,Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Dean L, Gregorius S, Bates I, Pulford J. Advancing the science of health research capacity strengthening in low-income and middle-income countries: a scoping review of the published literature, 2000-2016. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e018718. [PMID: 29217727 PMCID: PMC5728300 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-018718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Substantial development assistance and research funding are invested in health research capacity strengthening (HRCS) interventions in low-income and middle-income countries, yet the effectiveness, impact and value for money of these investments are not well understood. A major constraint to evidence-informed HRCS intervention has been the disparate nature of the research effort to date. This review aims to map and critically analyse the existing HRCS effort to better understand the level, type, cohesion and conceptual sophistication of the current evidence base. The overall goal of this article is to advance the development of a unified, implementation-focused HRCS science. METHODS We used a scoping review methodology to identify peer-reviewed HRCS literature within the following databases: PubMed, Global Health and Scopus. HRCS publications available in English between the period 2000 and 2016 were included. 1195 articles were retrieved of which 172 met the final inclusion criteria. A priori thematic analysis of all included articles was completed. Content analysis of identified HRCS definitions was conducted. RESULTS The number of HRCS publications increased exponentially between 2000 and 2016. Most publications during this period were perspective, opinion or commentary pieces; however, original research publications were the primary publication type since 2013. Twenty-five different definitions of research capacity strengthening were identified, of which three aligned with current HRCS guidelines. CONCLUSIONS The review findings indicate that an HRCS research field with a focus on implementation science is emerging, although the conceptual and empirical bases are not yet sufficiently advanced to effectively inform HRCS programme planning. Consolidating an HRCS implementation science therefore presents as a viable option that may accelerate the development of a useful evidence base to inform HRCS programme planning. Identifying an agreed operational definition of HRCS, standardising HRCS-related terminology, developing a needs-based HRCS-specific research agenda and synthesising currently available evidence may be useful first steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Dean
- Department of International Public Health, Capacity Research Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Stefanie Gregorius
- Department of International Public Health, Capacity Research Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Imelda Bates
- Department of International Public Health, Capacity Research Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Justin Pulford
- Department of International Public Health, Capacity Research Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Kok MO, Gyapong JO, Wolffers I, Ofori-Adjei D, Ruitenberg EJ. Towards fair and effective North-South collaboration: realising a programme for demand-driven and locally led research. Health Res Policy Syst 2017; 15:96. [PMID: 29132436 PMCID: PMC5683379 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-017-0251-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the turn of the 90s, studies showed that health research contributed little to health and development in low- and middle-income countries because it was oriented towards international priorities and dominated by researchers from the North. A new approach to North-South collaboration was required that would support demand-driven and locally led research in the South. The aim of this study was to analyse the development and functioning of a programme for demand-driven and locally led research in Ghana that was supported by a North-South collaboration. METHODS For this mixed-method case study, we combined document analysis, key informant interviews and observation of programme events. RESULTS The development of the research programme started with constructing a sponsorship constellation in the Netherlands. After highlighting the problems with traditional research collaboration, an advisory council formulated a vision for a more equal and effective approach to North-South collaboration. Together with Ghanaian partners, this vision was turned into a proposal for a Ghanaian-led programme for demand-driven and locally led research, which was funded by the Netherlands government. Research priority setting showed that the Ghanaian research needs were very different from the priorities of foreign funders and researchers. After a slow start, the number of locally submitted proposals increased from 13 in 2001 to 94 in 2005, revealing the existence of a substantial, but partly latent reservoir of research capacity. In total, 79 studies were funded. An impact evaluation showed that the results of the majority of the studies were used to contribute to action. Despite its success, the research programme came to an end in 2008 after the sponsorship constellation in the Netherlands fell apart. CONCLUSION Our study shows that realising a programme for demand-driven and locally led research in the South provides an effective approach to North-South collaboration in which results are used and local capacities and institutions are strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten Olivier Kok
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Burgemeester Oudlaan 50, 3062 PA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John Owusu Gyapong
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Ivan Wolffers
- Department of Health Care and Culture, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David Ofori-Adjei
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Wakida E, Maling S, Obua C. Mbarara University Research Training Initiative: a spin-off of the Medical Education Partnership Initiative in Uganda. ADVANCES IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE 2017; 8:527-533. [PMID: 28794667 PMCID: PMC5538542 DOI: 10.2147/amep.s138024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Scientific productivity in Africa is insignificant compared to that in the rest of the world. This has been attributed to the fact that, in spite of academic qualifications, junior faculty, who form the majority of academics in low- and middle-income countries lack experience in research. This calls for a need to put in place programs that provide hands-on training in research so that junior faculty can conduct relevant research. The Mbarara University Research Training Initiative, a Fogarty International Center-funded program, is one such program that was developed to provide research capacity training for junior faculty at the Mbarara University of Science and Technology. The program utilizes health priority areas to provide research training to junior faculty. During the training, they are given short-term-focused research training on particular knowledge and skills, which they apply while conducting the mentored research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuel Maling
- Department of Psychiatry, Office of the Dean, Faculty of Medicine
| | - Celestino Obua
- Department of Pharmacomology and Therapeutics, Office of the Vice Chancellor, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
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Sam-Agudu NA, Paintsil E, Aliyu MH, Kwara A, Ogunsola F, Afrane YA, Onoka C, Awandare GA, Amponsah G, Cornelius LJ, Mendy G, Sturke R, Ghansah A, Siberry GK, Ezeanolue EE. Building Sustainable Local Capacity for Global Health Research in West Africa. Ann Glob Health 2016; 82:1010-1025. [PMID: 28314488 DOI: 10.1016/j.aogh.2016.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global health research in resource-limited countries has been largely sponsored and led by foreign institutions. Thus, these countries' training capacity and productivity in global health research is limited. Local participation at all levels of global health knowledge generation promotes equitable access to evidence-based solutions. Additionally, leadership inclusive of competent local professionals promotes best outcomes for local contextualization and implementation of successful global health solutions. Among the sub-Saharan African regions, West Africa in particular lags in research infrastructure, productivity, and impact in global health research. OBJECTIVE In this paper, experts discuss strategies for scaling up West Africa's participation in global health evidence generation using examples from Ghana and Nigeria. METHODS We conducted an online and professional network search to identify grants awarded for global health research and research education in Ghana and Nigeria. Principal investigators, global health educators, and representatives of funding institutions were invited to add their knowledge and expertise with regard to strengthening research capacity in West Africa. FINDINGS While there has been some progress in obtaining foreign funding, foreign institutions still dominate local research. Local research funding opportunities in the 2 countries were found to be insufficient, disjointed, poorly sustained, and inadequately publicized, indicating weak infrastructure. As a result, research training programs produce graduates who ultimately fail to launch independent investigator careers because of lack of mentoring and poor infrastructural support. CONCLUSIONS Research funding and training opportunities in Ghana and Nigeria remain inadequate. RECOMMENDATIONS We recommend systems-level changes in mentoring, collaboration, and funding to drive the global health research agenda in these countries. Additionally, research training programs should be evaluated not only by numbers of individuals graduated but also by numbers of independent investigators and grants funded. Through equitable collaborations, infrastructure, and mentoring, West Africa can match the rest of Africa in impactful global health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia A Sam-Agudu
- Institute of Human Virology and Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; International Research Center of Excellence, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria, Abuja, Nigeria; Department of Paediatrics, University of Cape Coast School of Medical Sciences, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Elijah Paintsil
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Muktar H Aliyu
- Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health, Nashville, TN; Department of Preventive Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN
| | - Awewura Kwara
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL
| | - Folasade Ogunsola
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Yaw A Afrane
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Chima Onoka
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Gladys Amponsah
- School of Anaesthesia, Ridge Regional Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Rachel Sturke
- Division of International Policy, Planning, and Evaluation and Center for Global Health Studies, Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Anita Ghansah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Legon, Ghana
| | | | - Echezona E Ezeanolue
- School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV; College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
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Thomson DR, Semakula M, Hirschhorn LR, Murray M, Ndahindwa V, Manzi A, Mukabutera A, Karema C, Condo J, Hedt-Gauthier B. Applied statistical training to strengthen analysis and health research capacity in Rwanda. Health Res Policy Syst 2016; 14:73. [PMID: 27681517 PMCID: PMC5041513 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-016-0144-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To guide efficient investment of limited health resources in sub-Saharan Africa, local researchers need to be involved in, and guide, health system and policy research. While extensive survey and census data are available to health researchers and program officers in resource-limited countries, local involvement and leadership in research is limited due to inadequate experience, lack of dedicated research time and weak interagency connections, among other challenges. Many research-strengthening initiatives host prolonged fellowships out-of-country, yet their approaches have not been evaluated for effectiveness in involvement and development of local leadership in research. Methods We developed, implemented and evaluated a multi-month, deliverable-driven, survey analysis training based in Rwanda to strengthen skills of five local research leaders, 15 statisticians, and a PhD candidate. Research leaders applied with a specific research question relevant to country challenges and committed to leading an analysis to publication. Statisticians with prerequisite statistical training and experience with a statistical software applied to participate in class-based trainings and complete an assigned analysis. Both statisticians and research leaders were provided ongoing in-country mentoring for analysis and manuscript writing. Results Participants reported a high level of skill, knowledge and collaborator development from class-based trainings and out-of-class mentorship that were sustained 1 year later. Five of six manuscripts were authored by multi-institution teams and submitted to international peer-reviewed scientific journals, and three-quarters of the participants mentored others in survey data analysis or conducted an additional survey analysis in the year following the training. Conclusions Our model was effective in utilizing existing survey data and strengthening skills among full-time working professionals without disrupting ongoing work commitments and using few resources. Critical to our success were a transparent, robust application process and time limited training supplemented by ongoing, in-country mentoring toward manuscript deliverables that were led by Rwanda’s health research leaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana R Thomson
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda. .,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America.
| | | | - Lisa R Hirschhorn
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America.,Ariadne Labs, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Megan Murray
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Vedaste Ndahindwa
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Anatole Manzi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.,Partners in Health-Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
| | - Assumpta Mukabutera
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Corine Karema
- Ministry of Health, Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda.,Quality and Equity Healthcare, Kigali, Rwanda.,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeanine Condo
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Bethany Hedt-Gauthier
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.,Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America.,Partners in Health-Rwanda, Rwinkwavu, Rwanda
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Kass NE, Ali J, Hallez K, Hyder AA. Bioethics training programmes for Africa: evaluating professional and bioethics-related achievements of African trainees after a decade of Fogarty NIH investment. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e012758. [PMID: 27633644 PMCID: PMC5030587 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-012758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our primary aim was to evaluate the impact of US National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded bioethics training programmes (Fogarty bioethics training programmes, FBTPs) that trained individuals from Africa over the programme's first 10 years to examine changes between pretraining and post-training in individual achievement and to document any associations between individual, training programme and post-training accomplishments. DESIGN We surveyed trainees from the 10 bioethics programmes funded by NIH Fogarty International Center from 2000 to 2011 that included African trainees. McNemar's and Wilcoxon signed rank-sum tests were used to analyse pre-post levels of general and bioethics-related professional achievement. Likelihood of specific post-training achievement outcomes was measured using logistic regression including demographic, pretraining and intratraining variables. SETTING 10 different FBTPs that trained individuals from Africa from 2000 to 2011. PARTICIPANTS Of 253 eligible respondents, 171 completed the survey (response rate 67.6%). PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Pre-post comparisons of professional achievement indicators (eg, serving in leadership roles, teaching, publishing manuscripts); likelihood of specific post-training achievement outcomes. RESULTS Post-training, respondents were significantly more likely to report serving in a leadership role, being an investigator on a research grant, serving on international committees, serving as a mentor, and publishing manuscripts than at pretraining. Post-training, significantly greater numbers of respondents reported bioethics-related achievements including being a bioethics instructor, serving on an Institutional Review Board (IRB), being an investigator on a bioethics grant and publishing bioethics-related manuscripts than pretraining. Controlling for other factors, there were no significant differences by gender in the post-training success of these participants in terms of leadership roles, being instructors, investigators on grants and holding IRB roles. CONCLUSIONS African trainees who participated in FBTPs reported significantly higher levels of professional achievement after training. There was no single factor-either demographic, related to a trainee's professional background, or in programme design-that consistently predicted greater levels of post-training achievement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy E Kass
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joseph Ali
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kristina Hallez
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Adnan A Hyder
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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