Theme: Engaging with the Private Sector

The team developed the toolkit Communicating with the Private Sector to help Science Granting Councils (SGCs) in Africa improve how they communicate with the private sector and support research and…

Speed read

The team developed the toolkit Communicating with the Private Sector to help Science Granting Councils (SGCs) in Africa improve how they communicate with the private sector and support research and development. As a result, once participants complete the training, they will be able to build partnerships between research institutions and businesses.

Why communicating with the private sector matters to establish and build partnerships in science research

Communicating effectively can help SGCs explain their goals which could attract private investment and partnerships. In particular, by approaching communication in a strategic and planned way, participants deliver purposeful information that gives partners a clearer understanding.

About the toolkit

The toolkit is designed to train people working in science, technology and innovation. Moreover, it will also be particularly useful to those involved in research and funding.

It includes a 3-day workshop that involves activities, discussions and exercises. Specifically, this includes covering 7 sessions focusing on core elements of communication with private sector, including:

  1. Getting started
  2. Settling in
  3. Learning by action
  4. Evaluating to learn
  5. Learning from peers
  6. Webbing it (online tools)
  7. Winding up

To begin with, the team conducts a survey beforehand to understand participants’ skills and interests and tailor the training to their needs.

This includes some of the key pieces of work participants will get involved in, such as:

  • Learning how to target the right audiences with the right messages, on the right channels
  • Designing communication plans that support their goals
  • Using online tools and social media to enhance their communication
  • Measuring the results of communication
  • Developing a one-year communication plan for their organization

Outcomes

The objective of the toolkit and training is for each participant to leave with a clear and actionable plan for improving communication with the private sector. Because of the structure of the sessions and their content, participants will be equipped with the tools to communication with private sector effectively on behalf of their company.

Themes

The SGCI aims to strengthen the capacities of these SGCs to support research and evidence-based policies that will contribute to economic and social development.

Supporting Strategic Communications and Knowledge Uptake
NRF hosting

Supporting Strategic Communications and Knowledge Uptake

Integrating Gender and Inclusivity

Integrating Gender and Inclusivity

Engaging with the Private Sector

Engaging with the Private Sector

Strengthening Research Management Capacity

Strengthening Research Management Capacity

Using Evidence in Policymaking
Two women discussing how a gender lens can help achieve development targets

Using Evidence in Policymaking

Funding Research and Innovation
NRF hosting

Funding Research and Innovation

Establishing Funding Agencies
SGCI meeting with funding agency staff in West Africa.

Establishing Funding Agencies