UR researchers and facilitators from partner institutions have convened for a Policy Brief Workshop designed to strengthen the translation of research findings into practical policy recommendations that can influence decision-making and deliver societal impact.
The workshop brought together UR researchers leading various research projects and grants to explore how evidence generated through research can be transformed into concise, impactful policy briefs that inform policy and contribute to development at national, regional, and global levels.
The training was organized with support from the UR-Sweden Programme under its Research and Innovation Sub-programme. Over the years, the programme has played a pivotal role in advancing research at the University of Rwanda by funding numerous research and innovation projects while strengthening researchers' capacity to maximize the impact of their work.
Opening the workshop, Prof. Etienne Ruvebana, Senior Research Coordinator of the UR-Sweden Programme, said the initiative aligns with the trust placed in the University of Rwanda to generate research that responds to the country's development priorities.
"Publications are not enough; there is a need to translate research publications into policies that are relevant for the development of this country," Prof. Ruvebana said.
He urged researchers to move beyond publishing in academic journals and focus on communicating their findings in ways that provide evidence for informed policymaking and create tangible benefits for society.
One of the workshop facilitators, Dr. Yekoyesew W. Belete, Senior Policy Advisor at Rwanda's Ministry of Health, emphasized that the ultimate value of research lies in the positive changes it brings to people's lives.
"Evidence will be measured not by the number of publications, but by the impact you make in the community's day-to-day lives," Dr. Belete said. "Research has to speak to people, understand the context, and reach the right audience," He added
He encouraged researchers to pursue impact alongside academic excellence, noting that translating evidence into policy is essential for addressing real-world challenges and improving public services.
Through its Research and Innovation Sub-programmes, the UR-Sweden Programme has so far supported more than 200 research and innovation grants. As many of these projects continue to generate valuable findings, the Programme in collaboration with University of Rwanda are placing greater emphasis on equipping researchers with the skills to convert scientific evidence into policy briefs that can influence decision-making and contribute to sustainable national development.