Research Capacity Building in Africa: Perceived Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats Impacting on the Doctoral Training for Development Programme in Africa

Abstract

This is a study of three models of partnership between Trinity College Dublin and higher education institutes in six African countries. The goal is to deliver collaborative doctoral training programmes in global health, natural sciences and economics, to train researchers and build research and teaching capacity in African institutions, which is increasingly seen as a key influence on economic development. The purpose of this study was to assess the three models employed in order to understand their strengths and weaknesses, capture lessons from our partnerships and make recommendations to others establishing North-South doctoral training programmes. Findings from qualitative interviews revealed strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for each model, and the specific strengths, challenges, recommendations and implications for future programme improvements are highlighted and discussed.