Building Inclusive Research Systems in Africa

Social inclusion is key to ensuring that everyone—regardless of gender, ability, age, or location—has equal opportunity to contribute to and benefit from research and development. A new report explores how Science Granting Councils (SGCs) and similar bodies can better embed social inclusion in their work.

Why Inclusive Research Systems Matter

Social inclusion is about giving all individuals and groups—especially those often left out—a chance to fully participate in society. This includes:

• People with disabilities
• Women and girls
• People in rural or remote areas
• Youth and the elderly

Exclusion harms individuals and societies. It restricts access to jobs and education, lowers self-esteem, and even harms national economies. Gender gaps in employment, for example, cost some countries up to 35% of their GDP (IMF Report).

Barriers That Must Be Overcome

SGCs face several challenges in becoming more inclusive:

• Attitudinal: Stereotypes and low expectations
• Environmental: Inaccessible facilities and services
• Internalized: Excluded groups may lack the confidence to participate
• Lack of participation: Few are consulted or represented
• Inadequate data: Makes planning and measuring difficult
• Cost concerns: Inclusion is wrongly seen as expensive

Paths to Progress

To become inclusive, SGCs can apply strategies that have proven effective:

• Adopt Universal Design to ensure research outputs and environments are accessible to all (UN DESA)
• Create policies like anti-discrimination laws and participation quotas
• Include marginalized voices in program design and evaluation
• Invest in accessible digital tools and training
• Monitor progress through clear goals and impact studies

The Benefits Are Clear

Inclusion leads to:

• Higher earnings and productivity for marginalized individuals
• Increased tax revenues from wider workforce participation
• Improved wellbeing for individuals and their families

Looking Ahead

To enhance inclusive research systems, SGCs must commit funding—up to 12% of their budgets—for inclusion activities. They must also build internal capacity and ensure that every product, service, or space is accessible to all.