IDeAL

Slide 1

The Initiative to Develop African Research Leaders

The IDeAL Programme is a multidisciplinary, multi-disease research and capacity-building initiative hosted by the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme. We are dedicated to developing the next generation of exceptional African scientists, equipping them with the skills, mentorship, and opportunities needed to become world-class research leaders.

Slide 2

Empowering Africa’s Next Generation of Research Leaders

IDeAL is one of 14 initiatives under DELTAS Africa Phase 2, funded by the Science for Africa Foundation, with USD 4.4 million until 2027. It has expanded beyond East Africa through partnerships with CIDRZ (Zambia), Epicentre (Niger), the Universities of Glasgow and Oxford, and Strathmore and Pwani universities in Kenya.

Slide 3

Empowering Africa’s Next Generation of Research Leaders

We offer world-class training experience by immersing Fellows in a dynamic research environment at KEMRI-Wellcome Trust and partner institutions. With access to cutting-edge infrastructure, world-class mentorship, and specialised skills training, Fellows gain a competitive edge in research.

Number of Doctor of Philosophy studentships awarded by IDeAL and partner institutions

Number of Masters' studentships awarded by IDeAL and partner institutions

1 +

Number of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations by IDeAL Fellows during and post-training

Number of policy briefs, particularly those written by IDeAL trained Fellows and students at the core of Kenya's COVID-19 response

Number Doctor of Philosophy studentships awarded by IDeAL

Number of Masters' studentships awarded by IDeAL

1 +

Number of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations by IDeAL Fellows during and post-training

Number of policy briefs, particularly those written by IDeAL trained Fellows and students at the core of Kenya's COVID-19 response

Impact Stories

Our capacity-building initiatives have nurtured a new generation of highly skilled scientists committed to addressing Africa’s health challenges.

Breaking Barriers: Dr. Caroline Tigoi’s Journey in Science and Research

The science field has largely been male-dominated from time immemorial and women in science are increasingly making their mark...

Developing Future Leaders in African Research: A Testimonial from Dr. Justin Nyasinga

The Initiative to Develop African Research Leaders (IDeAL), hosted by the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) in Kenya, is...

Meeting with Training Fellows

The Initiative to Develop African Research Leaders (IDeAL) Team, led by Sam Kinyanjui, Liz Murabu, and Samuel Sifuna, had...

Annual Policy Engagement Forum

The KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) hosted its annual policy engagement forum at the Radisson Blu Hotel in...

School Leavers Attachment Scheme (SLAS)

We hosted 153 students for the Annual School Leavers Attachment Scheme (SLAS) Open Day. The SLAS open day targets...

Our Videos & Podcasts

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Policy

Many researchers struggle to engage policymakers, resulting in valuable evidence remaining unused in decision-making processes. In this video, Prof. Frank Wafula, a Health Systems and Policy expert at Strathmore University, explores the disconnect between research and policy. He discusses how policies are shaped through legislation, executive action, & judicial interpretation while emphasising key stakeholders, including communities, development partners, and budget decision-makers.

To maximise impact, researchers must understand these players and tailor their communication accordingly. He shares strategies for making research compelling by highlighting economic and social benefits, ensuring policymakers take notice. Publishing findings is insufficient; researchers must actively engage, collaborate, and communicate effectively.