The Institute through its Graduate School, held two transformative workshops from 3rd to 6th, December 2024, aimed at enhancing the research and grant management skills of African scientists.
The Grant Writing Workshop and Post-Award Grants and Policy Management Workshop, conducted in partnership with the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) and its National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), attracted over 330 participants from across the region.
These workshops provided a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, addressing critical gaps in research funding and capacity building. The events underscored the importance of empowering researchers with tools to secure and manage grants effectively while advancing scientific innovation.
Inaugurating the workshops, Dr. Rebecca Kiptui, representing the Director General of the Ministry of Health, emphasized the role of research in achieving Kenya’s health goals, including Universal Health Coverage and tackling emerging diseases. She lauded the workshops’ focus on building competitive grant-writing skills and promoting resource efficiency.
“Research is not confined to academia—it changes lives. These workshops are vital in fostering regional collaboration and addressing shared health challenges,” Dr. Kiptui remarked while emphasizing the vital role of research in achieving Kenya’s health goals, including Universal Health Coverage and tackling emerging diseases.
U.S. Representative Mr. Evans Kamiti from the Department of Health and Human Services highlighted the global nature of health challenges, urging cross-border partnerships to drive impactful research. He emphasized that strong grant management enhances both researchers’ capabilities and institutional capacities.
Acting Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, reaffirmed KEMRI’s commitment to research excellence and capacity building, thanking NIAID for its unwavering support.
Prof. LeShawndra Price, Director of the NIH Office of Research Training and Special Programs, praised KEMRI for hosting the high-impact workshops, reiterating NIH’s dedication to fostering global research collaborations.
The Grant Writing Workshop on 3rd December equipped participants with practical skills for crafting successful grant applications.
Prof. Nelly Mugo opened the workshop with insights on “Mapping Your Journey Towards Successful Grantsmanship.” She emphasized team science and vision-setting as keys to effective grant writing. Prof. Elizabeth Anne Bukusi demystified the grant application process, offering strategies to identify research gaps and develop compelling proposals. Her use of vivid metaphors and personal experiences inspired participants to approach funding opportunities with renewed vigor. KEMRI scientist, Dr. Damaris Matoke-Muhia who was one of the workshop’s facilitators shared a candid account of her experiences navigating the NIH grant process, highlighting resilience as a critical trait for success.
From 4th to 6th December, the Post-Award Grants and Policy Management Workshop focused on effective practices for managing secured funding. Dr. Matoke led discussions on creating streamlined grant application processes within institutions. Abbie Gerhart, NIAID Grants and compliance requirements, ensuring participants understood financial management nuances. Emmanuel Appiah Qua-Enoo shared best practices from Makerere University for effective grant tracking, while Prof. Sam Kariuki recounted his 15-year journey with NIH funding, showcasing how sound grant management leads to impactful academic contributions.
KEMRI’s collaboration with NIH/NIAID underscores a shared vision of fostering innovation and improving healthcare outcomes through strategic partnerships. The workshops are a testament to the power of collaboration in advancing the research agenda and building the next generation of health innovators.
During the closing ceremony, Dr. Martin Bundi, Ag. Director Research Capacity Building, KEMRI, reaffirmed KEMRI’s steadfast commitment to advancing research excellence through initiatives designed to strengthen the skills of scientists and research administrators. He highlighted KEMRI’s dedication to building research capacity at both national and regional levels, driven by strategic partnerships with esteemed organizations like NIAID and NIH. “I am confident that the outcomes of the workshops, will not only significant in gaining critical knowledge but also the inspiration needed to effectively navigate the complexities of grant writing and post-award management,” he stated, further facilitators, stressing that the relationships and insights developed during the sessions would be instrumental in driving impactful health research.
Dr. Rose Bosire, representing the Director General, KEMRI, commended the participants for their dedication to enhancing their research skills and their commitment to driving impactful health outcomes. She lauded the workshops as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration in addressing shared health challenges across the region. Dr. Bosire encouraged participants to leverage the insights gained to craft compelling grant applications and effectively manage post-award processes. She emphasized the value of resilience and teamwork in overcoming challenges in the competitive landscape of research funding. As she concluded, Dr. Bosire expressed her optimism that the relationships and skills nurtured during the workshops would pave the way for groundbreaking research that transforms lives and strengthens healthcare systems.
These workshops represent a critical investment in research capacity building, equipping scientists with tools to secure and manage funding effectively. As participants departed with enhanced knowledge and professional networks, they were encouraged to apply their skills toward transformative research that addresses pressing health challenges in Kenya and beyond.
