According to the World Economic Forum, Africa is home to 15% of the world’s population and 25% of the global burden of disease, but it produces just 2% of the world’s research output.

Research, development and  innovation is hampered by underinvestment and poor implementation compounded by a figure of 198 researchers per 1 million population compared to 4000 per 1 million in the US and UK.

The exposure to research even up to tertiary education level is very much limited as many undergraduates have their first experience in doing any research work in their final year. Worsening this reality is the gross unavailability of research infrastructure, opportunities and funding in our institutions.

Research and innovation remains critical in bridging existing gaps in healthcare access and delivery in Africa, capacity building in research is therefore pertinent towards building the functional and sustainable health systems we want for our continent. 

The institute focuses on growing the  research interest of young people, encouraging  commitment, achieving practice and improved output through focused peer-driven learning and mentorship.