WARIMA Delivers Comprehensive Research Grants Management Training in Sierra Leone
WARIMA successfully concluded a five-day Research Grants Management course held from 26th to 30th May 2025, at the Kenema Government Hospital in Sierra Leone, marking another significant milestone in the association’s commitment to strengthening research management capabilities across West Africa. This intensive training program was delivered in partnership with the Advancing Research Capacity in West Africa (ARC-WA) initiative funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), recognising the crucial role that effective research management plays in ensuring the conduct of quality and relevant research across the sub-region.
According to Elizabeth Batchilly, the Course Programme Director, “The course is designed to build the skills and competencies of research management professionals. Completion of the course will provide participants with a comprehensive set of skills in various areas. These include research funding and research policy, research project management, financial management and reporting of research funds, managing collaborations and relationships, research contracts and research compliance.”
Bringing together 30 participants, including institution leaders, scientists, and administrators with essential Research Management knowledge to support and run research effectively and efficiently in their institutions, the course strategically addressed both the theoretical underpinnings of research management challenges and provided practical, hands-on experience through comprehensive case study reviews. This practitioner-focused approach ensured that participants could immediately apply newly acquired knowledge to their professional responsibilities, enhancing the overall effectiveness of research operations within their institutions.
A key feature of this training program was its alignment with international professional standards. Upon completion, participants received credit points toward professional recognition with the International Professional Recognition Council (IPRC) for Research Managers, positioning them for career advancement and formal acknowledgment of their expertise. The course also provided opportunities for professional growth in accordance with WARIMA’s Research Management Framework, supporting long-term career development within the field.
By the end of the program, participants had developed comprehensive capabilities in developing institutional research policies and compliance procedures, identifying and pursuing funding opportunities aligned with their institutions’ scientific directions, understanding project contracts and deliverables, and managing project budgets, forecasts, and reporting requirements.
This training initiative reflects WARIMA’s ongoing dedication to building robust research management ecosystems across West Africa. Through strategic partnerships and targeted capacity-building programs, the association continues to support institutional development and professional growth, ultimately contributing to enhanced research outcomes and scientific advancement throughout the region.