Generic manual for the management of research grants

The Generic Manual for the Management of Research Grants offers a detailed blueprint to guide Science Granting Councils (SGCs) in efficiently managing the research funding lifecycle. Specifically, SARIMA developed the manual and grounded it in best practices from across Africa, it seeks to:

• Standardise grant processes
• Enhance accountability
• Boost the impact of publicly funded research

Strengthening Research Grant Management Systems

To do this, it defines a seven-phase research funding cycle at its core, which includes:

• Institutional arrangements
• Programme development
• Call announcements
• Application reviews
• Grant awarding
• Monitoring and evaluation (M&E)
• Financial and risk management.

Moreover, these phases are supported by actionable templates and guidelines that align with international standards.

Defining the Role of SGCs

The manual underscores the multifaceted roles of SGCs, not only as funders but also as influencers of national science agendas. For example, councils are encouraged to support priority-driven research and commission studies in national interest areas and foster innovation, capacity building, and collaboration. As a result, it positions the SGCs as intermediaries between governments and research communities.

From Policy to Practice

Strategic research priority setting is central to institutional arrangements. SGCs are guided to align funding calls with national development plans, the African Union’s STISA 2024, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, priorities are refined through stakeholder consultations, scoping studies, and portfolio reviews, ensuring relevance and responsiveness to national and regional challenges.

Tailored Funding Instruments

The manual outlines five major funding categories:

1. Research support
2. Innovation support
3. Scholarships and fellowships
4. Knowledge interchange and collaboration
5. Infrastructure grants

Each category includes clear eligibility criteria, application templates, and budget justifications. In particular, special emphasis is placed on fostering interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships, and innovation ecosystems.

Ensuring Quality through Rigorous Evaluation

The peer-review process is a vital quality control mechanism. The manual prescribes a structured review system—external reviews complemented by panel assessments—to ensure fairness, objectivity, and transparency. Additionally, it includes protocols for managing conflicts of interest and maintaining confidentiality.

Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)

SGCs are advised to develop robust MEL frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of funded projects. Specifically, this includes performance indicators, log frames, and project closure reports. Critically, the manual encourages the integration of learning loops to inform future funding strategies and policy advice.

Financial Stewardship and Risk Mitigation

Recognizing the responsibilities of SGCs, the manual dedicates a comprehensive section to financial and risk management. The manual recommends that SGCs implement internal controls, procurement standards, cost recovery mechanisms, and anti-corruption safeguards. In particular, it pays close attention to managing subawards and identifying non-allowable research costs.

In summary

The manual provides a holistic, adaptable framework for SGCs across Africa to professionalise their research funding operations. Ultimately, it positions SGCs as pivotal actors in driving Africa’s research and innovation agenda.