Effective research capacity strengthening: A quick guide for researchers

Drawing on global evidence and the expertise of research leaders from across Africa, Asia, Latin America and beyond, this guide offers clear, actionable guidance for principal investigators, team leaders and research managers seeking to embed meaningful capacity strengthening within their projects and programmes.

The guide covers five core areas: understanding what research capacity strengthening (RCS) really means; designing robust RCS initiatives using tools such as the 5-step approach and theories of change; sustaining RCS to strengthen institutions over the long term; monitoring progress and impact pathways; and sharing knowledge to inform future practice.

A practical checklist and ten real-world case studies, spanning Kenya, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, India, Sierra Leone and beyond, bring the guidance to life, illustrating what works, what doesn’t, and why.

Whether RCS is your primary objective or embedded within a larger research effort, this guide provides the evidence-informed foundation to plan, implement and evaluate your approach with confidence.