MALAWI UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

RESEARCH AND CONSULTANCY POLICY

(FINAL DRAFT)

April, 2017.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................ ii

ACKNOWLDGEMENT................................................................................................................ iv
FOREWORD ...............................................................................................................................v
PREFACE .................................................................................................................................... vi
LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATION.............................................................................. vii
1.0 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Definitions........................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Background ....................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 Situation analysis ............................................................................................................... 2
1.4 Rationale ........................................................................................................................... 3
1.5 Linkages with other relevant development frameworks ..................................................... 3
1.6 Key Challenges .................................................................................................................. 3
2.0. BROAD POLICY DIRECTIONS............................................................................................. 4
2.1. Vision ............................................................................................................................... 4
2.2. Mission ............................................................................................................................ 4
2.3. Overall Policy Goal .......................................................................................................... 4
2.4. Policy Objectives .............................................................................................................. 4
2.5. GUIDING PRINCIPLES .................................................................................................. 4
3.0 POLICY THEMES .................................................................................................................. 5
3.1. Research and consultancy regulation ................................................................................. 5
3.2. Capacity building in research and consultancies............................................................. 6
3.3. Development and implementation of high quality research and consultancies ............... 7
3.4. Establishing Linkages and partnerships ........................................................................... 7
3.5. Mobilization of resources for research and consultancies ............................................... 8
3.6. Research dissemination, outreach, technology transfer and community engagement ..... 8
4.0 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS ................................................................................ 9
4.1 The Office of Director of Research, Postgraduate Studies and Outreach ............................. 9
4.2. The Malawi University of Science and Technology ...................................................... 10
4.3. Procedures for Private Consultancies ............................................................................. 11
4.4. Administrative costs of Research .................................................................................. 13

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 4.5. Professional fees for consultancies ................................................................................ 13
4.6. Resources provided by MUST for research and consultancy .................................. 141413
4.7. Staff motivation and incentives .................................................................................... 14
4.8. Ownership of research results, outputs, data and equipment........................................ 14
4.9. Research quality control .............................................................................................. 15
5.0 MONITORING AND EVALUATION.................................................................................... 15
5.1 Monitoring and evaluation ............................................................................................... 16
5.2 Policy Review .................................................................................................................. 16
APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................. 17
APPENDIX 1: IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ................................................................................ 17
APPENDIX 2: POLICY IMPACT MONITORING AND EVALUATION ........................................ 22

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The formulation of this policy has been done in two stages. During the first stage, external
consultants led by Mr. Chikosa Banda produced an initial draft, which was entitled “MUST
Research and Consultancy Policy and Strategy”. The draft policy was revised and
restructured according to the Malawi Government policy format by Dr Alfred Maluwa,
Director of Research, Postgraduate Studies and Research at MUST during the second stage.

The revision in the second stage included the incorporation of relevant areas, development
of themes and the formulation of the implementation and, monitoring and evaluation
plans. There have been extensive consultations during the formulation of this policy with
MUST faculty and key stakeholders.

A final stakeholder consultative meeting was organized for the Executive Deans of Schools
and Heads of Department at MUST. The Executive Deans were; Dr. Davis Mweta,
Executive Dean for the Malawi Institute of Technology; Dr Leonard Kalindekafe, Executive
Dean for Ndata School of Climate and Earth Sciences; and Dr Robert Chanunkha, Executive
Dean for Bingu School of African Culture and Heritage. Mr Martin Thawani, the University
Librarian, also participated in the final consultative stakeholder meeting. Final proof
reading of the policy was done by Ms Tabitha Nindi (Research Fellow) and Mr. James
Mphande (Communications Manager).

The comments and concerns of the key stakeholders were addressed and incorporated to
come up with the final draft policy, which was presented to the University senate for final
approval. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Address Malata; University Registrar, Dr Tarsizius
Nampota; and Director of Finance and Investments, Mr MacDonald Hudge; are
acknowledged for their logistical, administrative and financial support during the
formulation of this policy.

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 FOREWORD

The Research and Consultancy Policy has been formulated to guide the conduct of research
and consultancy at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST). The Policy
provides a framework for the development and management of research and consultancy
and provides strategies to be pursued to achieve the policy objectives. The strategies have
been formulated from the policy themes, which include the regulation of research and
consultancy. To regulate research, the policy establishes the relevant supporting structures
such as the university research committee, the research and ethics committee and important
frameworks such as the research agenda and the research and consultancy code of conduct.
The policy provides direction on the development of human, financial and infrastructural
capacity for conducting high quality research and consultancies.

MUST aspires to become a world Class University in science, technology and innovation.
In order to attain and sustain such a status, the policy gives direction on human and
infrastructure capacity development. Furthermore, MUST cannot achieve the stated policy
objectives while working in isolation, hence, another policy theme gives direction on
establishment of linkages and partnership with relevant institutions and organizations
within and outside Malawi. The linkages and partnerships are key to knowledge exchange
and transfer, and resource mobilization through joint research and consultancy programs.
For research to make an impact, there is need to ensure that the results are beneficial to
the targeted beneficiaries. In this vein, there is a policy theme that gives direction on
research results dissemination, conduct of outreach programs, technology transfer,
industrial and community engagement.

The Policy is formulated in line with the mission of MUST, the University’s strategic plan,
faculty conditions of service, promotion criteria, Intellectual Property Policy and the
Standard Operating Procedures of the MUST Research and Ethics Committee (MUSTREC).
At national level, the policy has been formulated in line with the Malawi Government’s
National Development Strategy and is aligned to the National Education Strategic Plan
(NESP), hence contributing to the sustainable development goals (SDGs).

It is hoped that the Policy will guide in the implementation of high quality, world-class
research and consultancy at MUST. Consequently, enabling Malawi to compete favourably
at global level and improving her rating on indicators used to assess the impact of Industrial
Research and Development, and statistics used to assess the impact of Industrial Research
and Development on trade. Therefore, all stakeholders within and outside MUST and
Malawi are called upon to participate in the implementation of this policy.

Professor Address Malata, PhD, FAAN

Vice Chancellor

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 PREFACE

The Research and Consultancy Policy aims at providing a framework and institutional
arrangements for implementing, monitoring and evaluating research, outreach, technology
transfer programmes and consultancies at MUST. The Policy’s vision is for MUST to be a
centre of excellence in harnessing science, engineering, technology, innovation and
entrepreneurship for socio-economic development of Malawi. To pursue this vision, the
mission statement for the policy is to provide a blue print for conducting high quality and
reputable research and consultancy that leads to national and global competitiveness in
science, engineering, technology, entrepreneurship and innovation.

The overall goal of the policy is to provide a framework for development, implementation
and governance of competitive, high quality research and consultancy by faculty, students
and collaborators at MUST. To achieve this goal, there are three specific objectives which
are; to provide a framework for the development, coordination and management of high
quality research and consultancy; guide in human, financial and infrastructural capacity
development in research, technology transfer, consultancies, outreach and community
engagement; and, to provide a framework for benefit sharing and staff motivation for
conducting high quality research and consultancy.

The policy is formulated to guide the conduct of research and consultancy at MUST and
applies to faculty, students and collaborators within and outside Malawi. There is an
implementation plan that assigns responsibilities within a given time frame to various
stakeholders at MUST. There is also a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan that has set
indicators for each strategy. The plan also sets out the baseline data and desired target
during the life span of the policy. If successfully implemented the policy has potential to
fulfil the vision of turning Malawi from a net importer to a net exporter through utilization
of science, technology and innovation.

Alfred Maluwa, PhD

Director of Research, Postgraduate Studies and Outreach

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LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATION

AAU Association of African Universities

DiRPO Director of Research, Postgraduate Studies and Outreach
DoFI Director of Finance and Investment
DVC Deputy Vice Chancellor
ED-MIT Executive Director, Malawi Institute of Management
EDs Executive Directors
GDP Gross Domestic Product
Go-SPIN Global Observatory for Science, Technology and Innovation Policy
Instruments
HoD Head of Department
LUANAR Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources
IP Intellectual Property
IRC Industrial Research Centre
MUST Malawi University of Science and Technology
MUSTREC Malawi University of Science and Technology, Research and Ethics
Committee
NESP National Education Strategic Plan
PGC Postgraduate Studies Coordinator
R&D Research and Experimental Development
RACs Research Advancement Committees
RUFORUM Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture
SARIMA Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association
SARUA Southern African Regional Universities Association
SETI Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation
TTO Technology Transfer Office
UL University Librarian
UNIMA University of Malawi
UR University Registrar
URC University Research Committee
VAT Value Added Tax

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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) is committed to distinguished
scholarship and reputable research, consultancy, innovation and entrepreneurship to
ensure that Malawi competes favourably in the global environment. This commitment is
in accordance with the vision and mission of the university. The commitment is aligned to
the national goals for turning Malawi from a net importer to a net exporter through the
promotion of Science, Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. MUST aims at
identifying and engaging a pool of researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators that can
contribute to knowledge generation and utilisation in Malawi. This policy presents a
framework for the development and management of research and consultancy at MUST,
and provides strategies to be pursued to achieve the research and consultancy objectives.
Indicators have been developed for each strategy. Implementation and, monitoring and
evaluation plans have been formulated to guide the implementation and, monitoring and
evaluation of progress at different stages of the policy implementation.

The policy applies to Schools, Academies, Institutes, Departments and Centres at MUST.
Specifically, the policy applies to staff, students and other key stakeholders such as
collaborators both inside and outside Malawi. The policy provides guidelines for research
needs identification and prioritisation, proposal preparation and approval procedures,
funding and project management, intellectual property rights (IPRs), monitoring and
evaluation and, dissemination of research results and community engagement.

1.1 Definitions

In this policy, the following definitions apply;

Research is a systematic investigative process employed to increase or revise current

knowledge by discovering new facts. It is divided into two general categories; basic
research (enquiry aimed at increasing scientific knowledge), and applied research which is
the effort aimed at using basic research knowledge to solve current and emerging problems,
or developing new processes, products or techniques.

Consultancy means any work or activity of professional nature undertaken by university

staff as individuals or groups in their field of expertise or use of university equipment or
facilities to work on specific project for clients outside the institution for which some
financial return is provided.

Policy means this policy on research and consultancies.

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Research Entity is a formally recognised cluster of researchers (School, Department, Centre,
Academies or Institute) that share common or complementary research interests; has, as a
group, established a reputation for high quality research and research training; and operate
in one or more Schools, Academies, Institutes, Departments or Centres, or involve other
individuals and organisations.

Research group, Unit, Centre or Institute are defined as follows;

 Research group comprises two or more researchers

 Research unit comprises more than one research groups
 Research centre comprises more than one research units
 Research institute is a semi-autonomous establishment with own infrastructure and
encompasses a wide range of research areas.

1.2 Background

MUST is the fourth public University that was opened in 2014. Its vision is to be a world
class centre of science and technology education, research and entrepreneurship. The
University’s mission is to provide a conducive environment for quality education, training,
research, entrepreneurship and outreach to facilitate economic growth in Malawi and
beyond. MUST has developed this policy to guide in the development, implementation
and, monitoring and evaluation of research, outreach and consultancy at the University.

1.3 Situation analysis

Malawi is actively developing the required Human Resources in Science, Engineering,

Technology and Innovation (SETI) since independence. According to the Global
Observatory for Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Instruments for Malawi
(2014), the number of researchers in Malawi rose by 340% from 1967 to 1977. During the
following 10 years (1977 to 2007) the number increased by 210%. A further growth of
250% was realized between 2007 and 2010. According to the 2010 data only 14% of
R&D personnel in Malawi held a PhD or equivalent degree, 68% a master’s or bachelor’s
degree, 7% a tertiary diploma and 11% a post-secondary non-tertiary diploma.

Furthermore, Malawi has favourable ranking on publications as outputs of research. In

2012, Malawi ranked number 15 in Africa and 103 in the World in terms of publications in
national and international reviewed journals (GO-SPIN, 2014). The bulk of these
publications came from Institutions of Higher Learning, mostly the University of Malawi,
which then included LUANAR. In addition, scientists and researchers in Malawi are more

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productive than their counterparts in some countries with much higher GDP than Malawi.
Comparing the ratio of GDP to the volume of scientific publications in 2010, Malawi was
1.5 times more productive than the Netherlands; 2.2 times more productive than Chile;
2.4 times more productive than Burkina Faso; 3.5 times more productive than Niger; 11.8
times more productive than Ecuador; 18.2 times more productive than Kazakhstan and
24.4 times more productive than Guatemala (GO-SPIN 2014). However, the bulk of
research and consultancy in Malawi has not translated into the production of innovative
products, high technology goods and services. Actually, Malawi has been and still is
registering very few patents, industrial designs and trademarks, which are indicators used
to assess impact of industrial research and development.

1.4 Rationale

The MUST is implementing R&D programs through its faculty, students and all other
national and international stakeholders in an effort to increase Malawi’s research outputs
and to contribute towards the country’s socio-economic development. The purpose of this
policy is to provide a framework for the governance of research and consultancy, by
faculty, students and collaborators at MUST, with the aim of stimulating research that has
an impact on industrial growth and development.

1.5 Linkages with other relevant development frameworks

The Policy is formulated in line with the vision and mission of MUST, the MUST strategic
plan, faculty conditions of service, promotion criteria, MUST intellectual Property Policy
and the Standard Operating Procedures of the MUST Research and Ethics Committee
(MUSTREC). The policy has also been formulated in line with the Malawi Government’s
National Development Agenda and is aligned to the National Education Sector Plan (NESP)
(2008-2017).

1.6 Key Challenges

Considering that MUST is a relatively new University, it is important to note that there is
a significant need to build research and consultancy capacity. The University is looking into
plans to develop the requisite human and infrastructural capacity to ensure that high
quality research and consultancy is being undertaken to address the Country’s development
challenges as well as meet clients’ needs. As a high learning institution, MUST needs to
embark on continuous staff development through training, mentoring and research
exchange programs to ensure implementation of high quality research. In addition, there

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is also a need for state of the art research infrastructure including laboratories, R & D
workshops and laboratory equipment for conducting both basic and applied research.

2.0. BROAD POLICY DIRECTIONS

2.1. Vision

To be a centre of excellence in harnessing science, engineering, technology, innovation and

entrepreneurship for socioeconomic development of Malawi

2.2. Mission

To provide a blue print for conducting high quality and reputable research and
consultancy, that leads to national and global competitiveness in science, engineering,
technology, entrepreneurship and innovation.

2.3. Overall policy goal

To provide a framework for development, implementation and governance of

competitive, high quality research and consultancies by faculty, students and collaborators
at MUST.

2.4. Policy objectives

The objectives of the Policy are to:

2.4.1. Provide a framework for the development, coordination and management of high
quality research and consultancies;
2.4.2. Guide in human, financial and infrastructural capacity development in research,
technology transfer, consultancies, outreach and community engagement
2.4.3. Provide a framework for benefit sharing and staff motivation for conducting high
quality research and consultancies.

2.5. GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The guiding principles of this policy are inspired by the vision and mission of MUST.
Therefore, during the implementation of this policy, MUST shall;

2.5.1. Affirm research as a priority and ensure its continued high-level effective and

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 efficient support.
2.5.2. Undertake research that is technology and innovation development and transfer
oriented and relevant to the needs of the society.
2.5.3. Promote the development and implementation of multi-disciplinary and multi-
institutional research projects and consultancies.
2.5.4. Ensure fair treatment and benefit sharing for all faculty and student researchers and
collaborators.
2.5.5. Encourage the establishment of research partnerships with public and private
institutions nationally, regionally and internationally.
2.5.6. Observe ethical conduct of research following MUSTREC ethical guidelines and the
national regulatory authorities from time to time.
2.5.7. Encourage patenting and commercialization of research outputs in accordance with
MUST IP Policy
2.5.8. Promote accountability in the conduct of research and consultancy by adhering to
set standards
2.5.9. Encourage private sector partnership on research and experimental development
and technology transfer
2.5.10. Ensure that the implementation of this policy takes into account emerging issues.

3.0 POLICY THEMES

The implementation of the research and consultancy at MUST is guided by the University’s
strategic plan and other policies of the University such as the staff promotion policy,
intellectual property policy, staff conditions of services, undergraduate curricula and
postgraduate students’ handbook. All these strategic documents emphasises the need for
faculty and students to implement high quality research and consultancy work. The policy
themes have been set as priority areas that require attention and intervention to promote
high quality research and consultancy at MUST.

3.1. Research and consultancy regulation

There is a need to regulate research and consultancy at MUST. The bulk of the research in
Malawi has been on surveys that generate qualitative information about knowledge,
attitude and practice in certain areas. In addition, more applied research has been
conducted while basic research and development has been given very little attention.
Consequently, most of the research outputs in Malawi have been publications with very
little relevance to high technology or industrial application. For MUST to contribute to
national technology and innovation development and commercialization, there is a need
to regulate the conduct of research to ensure only high quality research and consultancy
are undertaken. To regulate the conduct of high quality research and consultancy, MUST
shall;

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3.1.1. Develop a research agenda at MUST with priority areas
3.1.2. Establish research and consultancy regulatory committees such as the University
Research Committee (URC), MUST Research and Ethics Committee (MUSTREC) and
Research Advancement Committee (RAC)
3.1.3. Develop a code of conduct to govern research and consultancy
3.1.4. Develop procedures for approval of research and consultancy
3.1.5. Develop procedures for declaring consultancies
3.1.6. Design research proposal, monitoring and reporting tools

3.2. Capacity building in research and consultancies

Development and retention of highly qualified staff at MUST is a requisite for attaining the
University’s vision and mission. MUST is offering specialized courses to fill existing gaps in
science, engineering, technology, culture and innovation that exist in Malawi. Hence, the
University has put staff training and development as one of its priorities. Specifically faculty
and students at MUST need to be mentored in research, outreach, consultancy, technology
transfer and community engagement within their areas of specialization. Hence, to build
capacity for high quality research and consultancy, MUST shall;

3.2.1. Provide faculty and students with financial, infrastructural and human resources

3.2.2. Establish a postgraduate office to facilitate, support and coordinate

post-graduate students’ research and outreach activities;

3.2.3. Create financial incentives for researchers to engage in high quality,

internationally competitive sustained research;

3.2.4. Create support for research mentorship structures for emerging and young
researchers;

3.2.5. Identify, encourage and provide incentives for undergraduate students to pursue
postgraduate programs;

3.2.6. Identify, encourage and provide support to academic staff to acquire a postgraduate
qualification;

3.2.7. Establish a staff-to-student ratio conducive to research productivity;

3.2.8. Increase the number of researchers and postdoctoral fellows;

3.2.9. Create incentives for faculty and students to publish their research results

3.2.10. Include research output indicators in faculty performance appraisals

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3.2.11. Appoint Professors and Research Fellows

3.2.12. Establish research centres and centres of excellence at MUST.

3.3. Development and implementation of high quality research and consultancy

MUST aspires to become a world-class university in science, technology, innovation and

entrepreneurship. To attain this status, the research and consultancies undertaken at
MUST should be of high quality to meet international standards. To ensure that high
quality research and consultancies are implemented, MUST shall;

3.3.1. Provide and coordinate efficient institutional support systems to researchers

to develop and maintain research quality;

3.3.2. Assess, assure and promote research quality through the University’s
approved structures;

3.3.3. Develop and implement peer review processes;

3.3.4. Recognize, encourage and reward research and innovation excellence;

3.3.5. Reorganize research structures and establish new centres and research niche
areas;

3.3.6. Establish and implement career development pathways for researchers;

3.4. Establishing Linkages and Partnerships

National and international partnerships are required for MUST to excel in research and
consultancies. Institutional linkages and partnerships are means of mobilizing financial
and human resources for research. Partnerships can also assist in human resources
development through training and mentorship. Therefore, MUST shall ensure that
linkages and partnerships are established with national and international cooperating
partners and relevant stakeholders. To foster national and international linkages and
partnerships, MUST shall;

3.4.1. Develop and maintain an inventory of funding agencies, including contact

details and specific requirements with regard to accessing their funds;

3.4.2. Disseminate to researchers, funding opportunities and mode of accessing the

funds within and outside the University;

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 3.4.3. Lobby for increased Government funding allocation for research in the national
budget;

3.4.4. Create linkages with industry to promote industry-university partnerships for

direct financing of research and development programs

3.4.5. Establish research collaboration networks and partnerships with national and
International universities and research institutions

3.4.6. Promote international exchange of researchers at all levels

3.4.7. Utilize internal research funds for baseline studies as a strategy to attract external
research grants during up-scaling

3.4.8. Focus on specialized support for priority funding streams of the government, non-
governmental organizations and other agencies

3.5. Mobilization of resources for research and consultancies

Resource mobilization is very crucial for implementation of high quality research and
consultancies. MUST needs to mobilize enough resources for implementing and
sustaining high quality research. To facilitate effective resource mobilization for research
and consultancies, MUST shall;

3.5.1. Develop and submit research proposals to different cooperating partners

3.5.2. Promote commercialization of research outputs to mobilize extra resources for
faculty and students
3.5.3. Commit at least 20% of MUST annual budget allocation to fund internal
research activities;
3.5.4. Prioritize some internal funds for emerging researchers
3.5.5. Secure membership to national and international organizations that support
research and innovation

3.6. Research dissemination, outreach, technology transfer and community

engagement

Most of the research conducted in Malawi has had little impact on the intended
beneficiaries and end users. To ensure that the research at MUST has maximum
impact on the industry and society in Malawi towards national development, this
policy has formulated strategies for research results dissemination, outreach

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 programs, technology transfer, patenting, commercialization and community
engagement. To achieve this, MUST shall;

3.6.1. Organize annual research dissemination conferences

3.6.2. Organize technology fairs, field days and demonstrations
3.6.3. Conduct participatory, adaptive or technology transfer research with the
targeted beneficiaries including surrounding communities
3.6.4. Organize institutional seminars at Department or School levels
3.6.5. Establish journals within each School with internationally accepted peer
review system
3.6.5. Encourage researchers to incorporate in their project proposals the
dissemination of results to end-users

3.6.6. Ensure that all research reports are peer reviewed using set guidelines before
dissemination

3.6.7. Compile annual inventories of research abstracts, research reports and

activities of staff members for dissemination to policy makers

3.6.8. Develop policy briefs out of research and consultancy results

3.6.9. Support staff (based on university guidelines) to attend conferences where

their research findings are presented

3.6.10. Digitise the research results and create digital repositories for the library

3.6.11. Create a special storage facilities for tangible products at MUST

4.0 IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS

The responsibility for the implementation of this policy resides with the Deputy Vice-
Chancellor (DVC) academic. Such responsibility is exercised through the Director of
Research, Postgraduate Studies and Outreach (DiRPO). The DiRPO is responsible for
implementing the policy and exercising institutional-level responsibilities and functions,
while Schools, Academies, Institutes, Departments, Centres, and students take ownership
on the management of specific research and consultancy programs and activities in
collaboration with various committees with different mandates that are established by this
policy.

4.1 The Office of Director of Research, Postgraduate Studies and Outreach

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 To ensure effective and efficient implementation of the policy, the DiRPO shall;

4.1.1. Periodically report to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (academic) and shall oversee the
implementation of the Policy

4.1.2. Compile and maintain a research and consultancy database, containing information
about research and consultancy activities by staff and students as accurate and
comprehensive as possible.

4.1.3. Ensure that ethical and regulatory requirements of research and consultancies are
adhered to.

4.1.4. Ensure that research and consultancy information is placed on the MUST website and
is regularly updated.

4.1.5. Compile an annual Research and Consultancy report that contains a summary of the
nature, scope and achievements made in research and consultancy activities.

4.1.6. Responsible for driving external funding campaigns at an institutional level and keep
a database of all strategic partnerships.

4.1.7. Develop and update guidelines on research and consultancies.

4.1.8. Be responsible for collecting information about national/regional development

priorities from appropriate sources and disseminating them to MUST community.

4.1.9. Be responsible for collecting and disseminating information on state of the art
technologies in priority areas

4.1.10. Coordinate publications and journals from schools

4.2. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic)

To ensure efficient and effective implementation of the policy, MUST shall;

4.2.1. Establish and support the University Research Committee (URC) and the DiRPO
shall provide secretarial services to the committee

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4.2.2. Facilitate the creation of Research and Consultancy Entities as need arises at each
School/ Academy/ Institute/ College.

4.2.3. Ensure that all research programs and projects are run in accordance with university
rules and regulations.

4.2.4. Facilitate the formulation and regular review of guidelines for the planning and
administration of research and consultancy; and

4.2.5. Ensure that all external affiliates to the University pay an affiliation fee to the host
institution, which can only be waived depending on their contribution to the
University.

4.2.6. Encourage and support the establishment of Research Advancement Committees

(RACs) in all Schools/ Academies/Institutes/Centres, chaired by the Executive Deans
of the schools and Directors of Centres.

4.2.7. Ensure that requests for support of research projects or activities are judged on the
merits of the proposal and the applicant, the need for research capacity
development, and to sustain existing research activities or capacity.

4.2.8. Ensure that staff and students submit their research proposals to MUSTREC for
ethical clearance through the RAC.

4.2.9. Through RACs and DiRPO, monitor the implementation of research and
consultancies.

4.2.10. Arrange training in research ethics for faculty members that serve on MUSTREC.

4.2.11. Ensure that students and staff submit research reports to their respective RACs.

4.2.12. Require that all staff of the University declare their consultancies to the DiRPO.

4.2.13. Institute training programmes to improve research and consulting capabilities and
skills of staff;

4.3. Procedures for private consultancies

When individuals engage in a consultancy entirely in a private (personal) capacity. The

clients shall contract directly the individual (s) as their consultant (s), therefore, the client
has no link with the University and the University has no legal liability to the client. In this
case;

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4.3.1. The consultant is responsible for their own insurance and professional Indemnity
cover

4.3.2. The consultant must ensure that their client is aware that they are acting in a personal
capacity and not on behalf of the University.
4.3.3. The consultant must not use any University address (mailing or email) in any
communication with the client nor make use of any University resources in the course
of the consultancy or do anything that might lead the client to believe that the
consultant is acting in his/ her University capacity, such as using University headed
paper and University email address.

4.3.4. The consultant may state that he/she is an employee of the University, since this is a
simple matter of fact.
4.3.5. The consultant must not compete with the University on consultancies.

4.3.6. It is the consultant’s responsibility to account for any income tax, VAT or any other
taxes due to the appropriate tax authorities on amounts earned from private
consultancy work

4.3.7. The consultant may not use any of the following: University staff other than the
consultant; University time and facilities e.g. equipment, including personal
computers, telephone, space, University name, expertise and Intellectual Property;
the University’s stationery; University premises for meetings as this may be legally
interpreted as an association with the University and the University’s tacit approval
of the consultancy services.

4.3.8. The University owns IP generated by faculty and students in the course of their duties
at the University. Therefore, consultants acting in a private capacity cannot, as part
of any Agreement they sign with a client, use or give rights to any University IP (since
they do not own that IP).

4.3.9. It is the consultant’s responsibility to negotiate his/ her terms and conditions with the
client and to insert in all contracts a disclaimer stating that “the work undertaken on
this contract is not being done on behalf of MUST and therefore the University owes
no responsibilities or liability in relation to such work”.

4.3.10. Fees from a private consultancy or private professional practice must not be paid
into a University account. However, the consultant can make a charitable donation
to the University under gift aid, which will be credited to a Faculty/Academy/
School/Institute account.

12
4.4. Administrative costs of research

There are always costs associated with hosting research at every institution. To effectively
host research and consultancy programs, MUST shall;

4.4.1. Require that administrative costs in respect of processing and implementation of

research projects are built into project proposals. At least 10% of the total research
budget should be allocated for administrative overheads.

4.4.2. Ensure that sharing of the administrative overheads is as follows: 50% to the
immediate department hosting the project; 20% will go to the School /Institute/
Academy/Centre; 30% to the University Administration.

4.4.3. Ensure that there is a transparent accounting system for all research funds

4.4.4. Ensure that all equipment purchased under research projects becomes property of
the University at the expiry of the project Agreement

4.5. Professional fees for consultancies

MUST shall require administration fees for hosting consultancies in the University.
For declared consultancies, MUST shall;

4.5.1. Require that administrative costs in respect of processing and implementation of

consultancies and services are built into consultancy proposals;

4.5.2. Ensure that sharing of the professional fees from consultancies is as follows: 70%
will go to the individual(s) implementing the consultancy; 30% will go to the
University.

4.5.3. Work out a mechanism to have a transparent accounting system.

4.5.4. Require that proceeds earned from hiring out university facilities are managed as
follows: 50% will go to the individual department hiring out; 50% will go to the
University.

13
4.6. Resources provided by MUST for research and consultancy

MUST is committed to facilitate, coordinate and provide human, infrastructural and

equipment required for the conduct of research and consultancies. To provide a
conducive environment for conducting research and consultancies, MUST shall;

4.6.1. Provide facilities such as buildings, laboratories, office space, vehicles, computers,
digital cameras, photocopiers, specialised equipment for research and consultancy

4.6.2. Encourage openness and transparency in the utilisation of institutional time and
facilities for consultancies

4.6.3. Promote, facilitate and coordinate the sharing of information and information
sources both in print and electronic forms.

4.7. Staff motivation and incentives

To attain excellence and remain competitive, MUST shall provide incentives and
motivate staff to conduct high quality research and consultancy. To achieve this, MUST
Shall;

4.7.1. Support staff to enhance their skills and have easy access to information technology

4.7.2. Require each staff member to present at least one research-based seminar per year

4.7.3. Develop a research assessment and merit scheme to ensure that staff who excel in
research are well recognised

4.7.4. Introduce regular in-service research methodology courses for faculty and students

4.7.5. Develop strong training programmes in research at postgraduate level and induct
senior undergraduate students in research skills

4.7.6. Introduce improved administrative systems that facilitates publishing by faculty and
students

4.7.7. Build the capacity among faculty to conduct high quality consultancies and research

4.8. Ownership of research results, outputs, data and equipment

14
 The University shall own all results, outputs, data and equipment from research and
consultancies. If the research and consultancy is jointly funded by cooperating partners, the
sharing of the results, output, data and equipment shall be negotiated and specified in the
Contract Agreement between the cooperating partner and MUST. To ensure ownership
of research and consultancy results, outputs, data and equipment, MUST shall;

4.8.1. Stipulate to all researchers that copyright ownership of all research results / outputs
from research funded by the University rests with the University;

4.8.2. Ensure that criteria for sharing copyright ownership for research outputs for either
partially or wholly financed external sources is adhered to as stipulated in the MUST
IP Policy;

4.8.3. Allow copies of all raw data to be submitted to national collaborating researchers,
while observing restrictions on distribution to foreign collaborators;

4.8.4. Ensure that at the close of any University or donor funded research project,
equipment must be handed over to the researcher’s department and to be marked as
the property of the University.

4.9. Research quality control

To attain excellence in research and consultancy, there is a need for quality assurance
through quality control. To ensure that research and consultancies at MUST are of high
standard and remain internationally competitive, MUST shall;

4.9.1. Maintain and promote through the DiRPO and Executive Deans of Schools, highest
internationally recognised standards of scientific and research practice, adhere to the
highest ethical standards in research and postgraduate study supervision through
accreditation by international regulatory bodies.
4.9.2. All applications for external research funds must finally be approved by the Deputy
Vice-Chancellor (academic) on the recommendation of the DiRPO before they can
be submitted for funding consideration.
4.9.3. All research Contract Agreements (except those undertaken within the context of
approved private work) concluded by staff with external entities must be approved
by the Deputy Vice- Chancellor (Academic) on the University's behalf upon
recommendation by the DiRPO.

5.0 MONITORING AND EVALUATION

15
5.1 Monitoring and evaluation

The research and consultancy policy has an implementation plan that sets out for each
strategy the stakeholders involved and targets to be achieved. The Policy has also
developed baseline indicators and desired targets to be achieved during the next five years
of the implementation of the Policy.

5.2 Policy review

The research and consultancy policy has been set for a period of five years (2017 to 2022)
following the standards set by the Malawi Government through the Office of the President
and Cabinet. The policy will be reviewed at the expiry in 2022, when the achievements
will be assessed in accordance with the targets that were set. However, the policy may be
reviewed earlier in case of any emerging issues that may require the review of the Policy.

16
 APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

Overall Policy Goal: To provide a framework for development, implementation and governance of competitive, high quality
research and consultancies by faculty, students and collaborators at MUST.

Specific Goal Outcome Strategies Responsible for Time

implementation Frame
Provide a framework for the Research and Develop a research agenda at MUST with priority
development, coordination and consultancy areas DiRPO, EDs, HoDs, 2017
management of high quality regulated
research and consultancies Establish research and consultancy regulatory
committees such as the University Research DiRPO, DVC, EDs 2017-2018
Committee, Research and Ethics Committee and
Research Advancement Committee

Develop a code of conduct to govern research and

consultancy DiRPO, EDs 2017-2018

Develop procedures for approval of research and

consultancies DiRPO, EDs 2017-2018

Develop procedures for declaring consultancies

Design research proposal, monitoring and reporting DiRPO, EDs, HoDs 2017-2018
tools

Guide in human, financial and Capacity built in Provide faculty and students with financial, URC, DoFI, DiRPO, 2017-2022
infrastructural capacity research and infrastructural and human resources to develop and UR, DVC, VC
development in research, consultancies maintain institutional research capacity
technology transfer,
consultancies, outreach and
community engagement Establish a postgraduate office to facilitate, support UR, EDs, DiRPO 2017
and coordinate post-graduate students’ activities

17
Specific Goal Outcome Strategies Responsible for Time
implementation Frame

Create incentives for researchers to engage in high URC, DiRPO, DoFI, 2017 – 2018
quality, internationally competitive sustained EDs, DVC, VC
research activities

Create support for research mentorship structures for DiRPO, URC, DVC 2016-2018
emerging and young researchers

Identify, encourage and provide incentives for DiRPO, URC, EDs, 2016-2018
undergraduate students to pursue postgraduate DVC
studies

Identify, encourage and provide support to academic

UR, EDs, URC, DVC, 2017-2022
staff to acquire postgraduate qualification DoFI

Establish a staff-to-student ratio conducive to research 2017-2022

productivity VC, DVC, PGC, UR,
EDs, DiRPO, HoDs
Increase the number of researchers and postdoctoral 2017-2022
DiRPO, PGC, URC,
fellows
EDs, DVC, UR, VC

Encourage faculty and students to publish their 2017-2022

research results DiRPO, URC, UL,
PGC
Include research output indicators in faculty 2017-2022
performance appraisals
UR, DiRPO, DVC, VC
Establish Research Niche Areas, Research Centres and 2017-2022
Centres of Excellence.
UR, DVC, VC, EDs,
DiRPO
Provide a framework for the High quality Provide and coordinate efficient institutional support DiRPO, URC 2017-2022
development, coordination research and systems to researchers to develop and maintain

18
Specific Goal Outcome Strategies Responsible for Time
implementation Frame
and management of high consultancies research quality
quality research and developed and Assess, assure and promote research quality DiRPO, URC 2017-2022
consultancies implemented
Develop and implement peer review processes
DiRPO, URC 2016-2022
Recognize, encourage and reward research and DiRPO, EDs, UL, PGC, 2017-2022
innovation excellence DVC

Reorganize research structures and establish new DiRPO, URC, DVC, 2017-2022
centres and research niche areas DoFI, VC

Establish and implement career development

pathways for researchers DiRPO, URC, DVC, 2017-2018
VC, DoFI

Research Develop and maintain an inventory of funding DiRPO, URC, UAC 2017-2022
linkages and agencies, including contact details and specific
partnerships requirements with regard to accessing their funds;
established
Disseminate to researchers funding opportunities and DiRPO, EDs, HoDs, 2017-2022
mode of accessing the funds from within and outside UR, DVC, VC
the University;

Lobby for increased Government funding allocation DiRPO, DoFI, UR, 2017-2022
for research in the national budget; DVC, VC

Create linkages with industry to promote industry-

University partnerships for direct financing of IRC, DiRPO, URC, 2017-2022
research and development EDs, UR, VC, DVC,
HoDs

Establish research collaboration networks and DiRPO, URC, EDs, 2017-2022

partnerships with national and International DVC, VC
universities and research institutions

19
Specific Goal Outcome Strategies Responsible for Time
implementation Frame

Promote international exchange of researchers at all 2017-2022

levels DiRPO, URC, UR,
EDs, DVC
Utilize internal research funds for baseline studies as a
strategy to attract external research grants during up- 2017-2022
scaling DiRPO, URC, DoFI,
DVC, VC, UR, IRC
Focus on specialized support for priority funding
streams of the government, non-governmental 2017-2022
organizations and other agencies DiRPO, URC, DoFI,
DVC, VC
Resources for Develop and submit research proposals to different DIRPO, URC, EDs, 2017-2022
research and cooperating partners Faculty, students
consultancies
mobilized Promote commercialization of research outputs to DiRPO, URC, TTO, 2017-2022
mobilize extra resources for faculty and students UR, DoFI, DVC, VC,
EDs
Commit at least 20% of MUST annual budget allocation 2017-2022
to fund internal research activities; DiRPO, URC, DoFI,
EDs, DVC, VC
Prioritize some internal funds for emerging 2017-2022
researchers DiRPO, URC, EDs,
DVC, VC
Secure membership to national and international 2017-2022
organizations that support research and innovation DiRPO, URC, UAC,
EDs
Research Organize research dissemination conferences DiRPO, IRC, URC, 2017 -2022
dissemination, EDs, UL, ICT
outreach,
technology Organize technology fairs, field days and DiRPO, IRC, URC, 2017-2022
transfer and demonstrations EDs
community
engagement Conduct participatory, adaptive or technology 2012-2022
undertaken transfer research with the targeted beneficiaries DiRPO, PG, EDs, URC

20
Specific Goal Outcome Strategies Responsible for Time
implementation Frame
Establish university journal with internationally 2017-2022
accepted peer review system DiRPO, UL, EDs, DVC

Encourage researchers to incorporate in their project 2017-2022

proposals the dissemination of results to end-users DiRPO, URC, EDs

Ensure that all research reports are peer reviewed 2017-2022

using set guidelines before dissemination DiRPO, URC, EDs,
PGC
Compile annual inventories of research abstracts, 2017-2022
research reports and activities of staff members for
dissemination to policy makers DiRPO, UL, DVC, EDs
2017-2022
Develop policy briefs out of research and
consultancy results DiRPO, URC, EDs,
PGC, DVC, UL
Encourage staff to attend external conferences 2017-2022
where their research findings are presented.
DiRPO, URC, DoFI,
Digitise the research results and create digital UR, DVC, VC, UL 2017-2022
repositories for the library.
DiRPO, UL, ICT 2017-2022
Create storage for tangible research outputs e.g.
museums, gene banks, bio-banks DiRPO, EDs, UL,
DVC, URC

21
 1. Appendix 2: M and E Framework for the Research and Consultancy Policy 2017-2022
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
Specific Objective: Develop research and consultancy management system at MUST
Develop a research agenda Percentage of Research 0 100% Draft DiRPO
at MUST with priority areas completion in reports by Research
development of DiRPO agenda by
Research agenda (RA) June, 2017
document Annual

Number of review or 0 1
updates on the RA
document

Percentage of 0 >50%
researchers using the
RA per year
Establish research and Number of committees Research 0 3 Policy DiRPO, DVC,
consultancy regulatory set up reports by approved by EDs
committees such as the DiRPO May, 2017
University Research Annual
Committee, Research and Frequency of meetings
Ethics Committee and by Committees 0 1 DiRPO, DVC,
Research Advancement EDs
Committee
Develop a code of conduct Percentage of Research 0 100% Draft by DiRPO, EDs Annual
to govern research and completion in reports by January, 2017
consultancy development of code DiRPO
of practice documents
Develop procedures for Percentage of Research
approval of research and completion in reports by 0 100% Draft Ready DiRPO, EDs Annual
consultancies development of DiRPO by May,
2017.

22
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
approval procedures
documents
Develop procedures for Percentage of Research
declaring consultancies completion in reports by 0 100% Draft ready DiRPO, Annual
development of DiRPO by March,
declaration procedures 2017.
documents
Design research proposal, Number of research Research 0 3/year Draft ready DiRPO
monitoring and reporting tools developed/ reports by by May, Annual
tools reviewed DiRPO 2017.

Specific Objective : Create suitable environment for quality research and consultancy programs and activities
Provide faculty and students Number of faculty and Research
with financial, students awarded per reports by 0 3/year 3 by 2018 DiRPO, URC, Annual
infrastructural and human year DiRPO DoFI, VC
resources to develop and
Number of capacity
maintain institutional building programs 0 1 Process
research capacity established initiated by DiRPO, URC, Annual
June, 2017 DoFI, VC
Number of research
supporting Process
infrastructure initiated by DiRPO, URC, Annual
established 0 1 June, 2017 DoFI, VC
Establish a postgraduate Number of office Research Postgraduate
office to facilitate, support facility and staff reports by 0 1 Office UR, DiRPO, 2017
and coordinate post- committed to DiRPO operational PGC
postgraduate office and by January,
graduate students’ activities
programs per year 2017.

Number of faculty 4 20 5 Additional Annual

teaching postgraduate staff recruited UR, DiRPO,
students by December, PGC
2017

23
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
Create incentives for Number of research Programme 0 2/year At least 5 URC, DiRPO, Annual
researchers to engage in programs implemented reports by research DOFI, EDs,
high quality, internationally per year DiRPO projects DVC
funded by
competitive sustained
December,
research activity 2019
Create support for research Number of young Research 0 2/year At least 6 by DiRPO, URC, Annual
mentorship structures for researchers mentored reports by 2019 DVC
emerging and young per year DiRPO
researchers

Identify, encourage and Number of Research 0 6 At least 2

provide incentives for undergraduate students reports by students DiRPO, URC, Annual
undergraduate students to provided with DiRPO, EDs, receive EDs, DVC
incentives PGC incentives by
pursue postgraduate studies
2018.
Identify, encourage and Number of staff trained Institutional 0 3/year At least 6 staff UR, EDs, URC, Annual
provide support to to postgraduate level reports by going for DVC, VC
academic staff to acquire at per year UR postgraduate
studies by
least a postgraduate
2018.
qualification
Establish a staff-to-student Faculty to students Institutional >1:20 1 : 10 At least 1:20 VC, DVC, PGC, Annual
ratio conducive to research research supervision reports by (including by December, UR, EDs,
productivity ratio PGC, DiRPO, under 2017. DiRPO
UR graduates)
Increase the number of Number of fellows Program 0 2 DiRPO, PGC, Annual
postdoctoral fellows reports by fellows/year 2 fellows by URC, EDs,
EDs, DiRPO 2018 DVC, UR, VC

Encourage faculty and Number of publications Research 0 10/year At least 6 by DiRPO, URC, Annual
students to by students and faculty reports by 2018 UL, PG
publish their research results EDs, UL,
DiRPO

24
 Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
Include research output Number of Progress 6 8/year Performance UR, DiRPO, Annual
indicators in faculty performance appraisal Reports by appraisal by DVC, VC, EDs
performance appraisals with research outputs HoDs, EDs, August, 2017
indicators UR, VC
App Appoint Research Number of research Institutional 0 2/year 1 by 2017 UR, DVC, VC, Annual
Professors and research staff appointed reports by EDs, DiRPO
fellows. UR, VC, EDs,
DiRPO
Establish Research Niche Number of research Institutional 0 2/year 1 by 2017 UR, DVC, VC, Annual
Areas, Research Centres and niches and/or Centres and research EDs, DiRPO
Centres of Excellence put in a place. reports by
UR, VC, EDs,
DiRPO
Specific objective: Develop and maintain partnerships with relevant national and international stakeholders
Develop and maintain an Percentage of Research 0 1/year Preparatory EDs, HoDs, Annual
inventory of funding completion in reports by work DiRPO
agencies, including contact development of DiRPO, EDs, initiated by
details and specific inventory. HoDs March, 2017
requirements with regard to
accessing their funds Preparatory EDs, HoDs, Annual
Number of updates in 0 1/year work DiRPO
the inventory initiated by
May, 2017
Disseminate to researchers Number of funding Research
funding opportunities and opportunities shared or reports by 0 20/year Preparatory DiRPO, HoDs Annual
mode of accessing the funds disseminated DiRPO, UL work by
from within and outside March, 2017
the University
Lobby for increased Number of lobbying Research 0 1/year Meet DiRPO, DVC, Annual
Government funding strategies put in place reports by Parliamentary VC, DoFI, EDs
allocation for research from DiRPO Committee
the national budget every year

25
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
Creating linkages with Number of MoUs with Reports by 0 3/year Preparatory EDs, DiRPO Annual
industry to promote different industry. EDs, DiRPO, work start
industry-University DVC, VC immediately
partnerships for direct
financing of research and
development
Establish research Number of research Research 0 3/year Preparatory EDs, DiRPO Annual
collaboration networks and collaborating partners reports by work start
partnerships with national EDs, DiRPO, immediately
and international DVC, VC
universities and research
institutions
Promote international Number of Research 0 2/year Preparatory EDs, DiRPO Annual
exchange of researchers at international reports by work start
all levels researchers exchanged EDs, DiRPO, immediately
DVC, VC
Utilize internal research Number of internal Reports by Preparatory EDs, DiRPO, Annual
funds for baseline studies as baseline studies funded EDs, DiRPO, 0 2/year work start DoFI
a strategy to attract by MUST funds DoFI immediately
external research grants
during up-scaling Number of research
grants awarded for up- 0 2/year
scaling

Focus on specialized Number of research and Research 1 2/ year Annual DiRPO, Annual
support for priority funding development projects reports by Project EDs,HoDs
streams by the government, funded DiRPO, EDs, Research
non-governmental HoDs Report by
organizations and other August, 2017.
agencies
Specific Objective: Facilitate resource mobilization for research and outreach

26
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
Develop and submit research Number of proposals Research 0 3/year Preparatory DiRPO, EDs, Annual
proposals to different submitted to reports by work start HoDs.
cooperating partners cooperating partners DiRPO, EDs, immediately
HoDs
Promote commercialization Number of businesses Research and 0 4/year Preparatory DiRPO, EDs, Annual
of research outputs to incubated / year financial work start HoDs
mobilize extra resources for reports by immediately
faculty and students DiRPO, DoFI,
DVC

Prioritize some internal Number of emerging Research 0 3/year Preparatory DiRPO, EDs, Annual
funds for emerging researchers funded reports by work start HoDs
researchers DiRPO, DoFI, immediately
DVC
Commit at least 20% of MUST Number of research and Research 5 5/year Annual DiRPO, EDs, Annual
annual budget allocation to outreach activities reports by Research HoDs, faculty
fund internal research funded / year DiRPO, EDs, report by
activities; DVC, VC August, 2017

Secure membership to Number of Research 4 2/year For 2017 DiRPO, EDs, Annual
national and international memberships attained reports by there are 4 HoDs, DVC, VC
organizations that support DiRPO, EDs, (RUFORUM;
research and innovation DVC, VC SARUA;
AAU;
SARIMA)
Specific objective: Engage end users to disseminate research results and outputs
Organize and participate in Number of Research and 0 2/ year 1 by end of DiRPO, TTO, Annual
research dissemination dissemination Media reports 2017 EDs, UR
conferences conferences / year by CM,
DiRPO,
EDs
Organize and participate in Number of fairs, field Research and 0 1 of each 1 of each by DiRPO, TTO, Annual
technology fairs, field days days and Media reports per year end of 2018 EDs, UR
and demonstration demonstrations / year

27
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
by CM,
DiRPO,
EDs
Conduct participatory, Number of technology Reports by 0 1 /year 1 by 2018 DiRPO, EDs, TT Annual
adaptive or technology transfer activities DiRPO, TTO, Officer
transfer research with the EDs
targeted beneficiaries
Establish School journals Number of Publishing Reports by 0 1 Preparatory DiRPO, UL, Annual
with internationally Journals Established DiRPO, UL, work start DVC
accepted peer review DVC immediately
system for Malawi
Journal of
Science,
Technology
and
Innovation
Encourage researchers to Percentage of Reports by 0 100% 2 by 2018 DiRPO, URC Annual
incorporate in their project proposals with DiRPO, URC
proposals the dissemination dissemination strategies
of results to end-users

Ensure that all research Percentage of DiRPO, UL, 0 100% Peer review DiRPO, UL, Annual
reports are peer reviewed proposals peer DVC system in DVC
using set guidelines before reviewed place by 2017
dissemination
Compile annual inventories Percentage of abstracts Reports by 0 100% Inventory DiRPO, UL, Annual
of research abstracts, inventoried per year DiRPO, UL created by DVC
research reports and 2017
activities of staff members
for dissemination to policy
makers
Develop policy briefs out of Number of policy briefs Reports by 0 3/ year Preparatory DiRPO, DVC, Annual
research and consultancy per year DiRPO, DVC, work to start VC
results VC immediately

28
Strategies Indicator Source of Baseline Desired Key Responsible for Frequency
data data target Milestone & implementatio
Time Frame n
Encourage staff to attend Number of staff Reports by 0 2/year Preparatory DiRPO, DVC, Annual
internal and external attending internal and DiRPO, DVC, work to start VC
conferences where their external conferences VC, DoFI immediately
research findings are per year
presented.
Digitise the research results Percentage of research Reports by 0 100% Preparatory DiRPO, DVC,
and create digital results digitized DiRPO, DVC, work to start VC
repositories for the library. UL immediately

29