On March 30, 2021, the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) hosted its annual Masterclass on the theme of “Ethics and Integrity in Research and Innovation,” bringing together stakeholders from across the research and innovation sectors. This year’s virtual session welcomed 82 participants from 22 countries, representing Science Granting Councils (SGCs). The event aimed to address current challenges, share experiences, and develop actionable strategies for promoting ethical standards in research across Africa.
During the event, participants discussed how the ethical landscape in research is constantly evolving, while many Research Ethics Committees (RECs) appear slow to adapt. This gap risks leaving African researchers out of crucial conversations on international standards. The group noted specific ethical issues needing more attention, such as managing conflicts of interest and preventing misconduct across research phases, from proposal submissions to commercialization.
The keynote address, delivered by Dr. Paul Ndebele, a leading figure in research ethics, was followed by a panel featuring representatives from Botswana, Senegal, and Burkina Faso. They shared insights on the practical realities of fostering ethics and integrity in their research environments. Representatives from the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) also contributed perspectives on how African researchers can better align with international standards while addressing local challenges.
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