Directorate of Research

1. Develop and implement a comprehensive research strategy and framework for the Ministry, in alignment with national development goals and priorities.
2. Coordinate and oversee national research activities  and promote a culture of excellence and innovation.
3. Coordinate and support research and development activities across various scientific disciplines, promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers, institutions, and industries.
4. Foster collaborations and partnerships with national and international research institutions, universities, industry, and government agencies to enhance research capacity and knowledge exchange.
5. Facilitate the identification of research priorities and areas of strategic importance in the country.
6. Develop and implement policies, regulations, and guidelines to govern ethical research practices and intellectual property rights.
7. Provide guidance and support to researchers in securing research funding
8. Establish mechanisms for research monitoring, evaluation and quality assurance to ensure the relevance, rigor, and impact of research conducted in the country
9. Promote multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary research collaborations to address complex societal challenges and contribute to national development.
10. Facilitate the dissemination of research findings through conferences, publications, and other knowledge-sharing platforms.
11. Foster a research culture that promotes innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving, and encourages researchers to engage in entrepreneurial activities.
12. In Collaboration with the Directorate of Science Technology and Innovation, to engage relevant stakeholders to leverage research outcomes for technology transfer, commercialization, and industrial application.
13. Identify and support the development of research infrastructure, facilities, and equipment required for high-quality research in country.
14. Monitor and assess emerging trends, policies, and advancements in research, both nationally and internationally, and integrate them into the strategic direction of the country.
15. Engage in reseaerch to inform evidence-based decision-making and policy formulation across the country.
16. Support the effective implementation of the National Research and Innovation Fund.

To build and strengthen national capacity and competencies in STI that will enhance the attainment of economic development and national competitiveness.

As the Ministry responsible for research, MoHERST is committed to giving R&D a new impetus through the cultivation of a research culture, building research capacity and fostering research techniques in all the institutions. In view of this commitment, the pronouncements and objectives given below will be pursued:

To Support Institutions To Establish The Prerequisite Infrastructure And Mobilise Funding For Research Activities

In partnership with other stakeholders, the Ministry will work towards strengthening the research infrastructure and capabilities within the tertiary and higher education sector in order to increase research output.

To Improve The Volume And Efficient Appropriation Of Funds From Government And Other Sources For Tertiary And Higher Education Research Activities

Government will initiate joint, strategic ventures for adequate and sustainable financing of tertiary and higher education research in The Gambia, as well as seek funding for research endowment Chairs and Units from non-state actors and affluent individuals to encourage research in various fields or disciplines.

To Build Partnerships, Linkages And Networks To Help Increase The Volume And Improve The Quality And Relevance Of Research Undertaken In The Tertiary And Higher Education Sector

MoHERST will promote and support the establishment of links between tertiary and higher education institutions in The Gambia and other relevant institutions in the sub-region and beyond for closer collaboration and cooperation in research work.

To Encourage Institutional And Individual Capacity Building To Acquire A Critical Mass Of Researchers In The Country

Government will encourage institutions and, where feasible, provide support for them to increase the number of academic staff with doctorate degrees to improve the volume and quality of research carried out in the country.

To encourage the application of research and development activities, including the incorporation of indigenous knowledge and to protect intellectual property rights as they relate to research and development

MoHERST will continue to encourage tertiary and higher education institutions to undertake applied research and consultancies (national and international) in addition to other fundraising activities and community service.

To Encourage NARDIC To Develop A National R&D; Strategic Plan To Guide The Implementation Of Research Activities And Programmes

In collaboration with other stakeholders and partners, MoHERST will develop a research agenda and map out a framework to coordinate national research activities.