Exploring Institutional Research Ethics Systems: A Case Study From Uganda

Abstract

Background The increasing globalization of research drives a need for greater research ethics capacity in low resource countries. Several programs have attempted to expand research ethics capacity by training individuals, but few have focused on broader research ethics systems and institutions. This study describes and applies an institutional research ethics model to assess the institutional research ethics capacity of Makerere University College of Heath Sciences (MakCHS) in 2011. Methods Internal and external stakeholders conducted the assessment of MakCHS using the multidimensional Octagon framework. Five methods were used to collect data on current ethical processes and institutional relationships. Results MakCHS scored in the mid range on all Octagon domains, with some variation between external and internal assessments. The external Octagon scores suggest that MakCHS’s areas of strengths are in identity, structure, relevance, target groups, and working environment; needs are greater in the areas of production, competence, and systems of finance and administration. Discrepancies in external and internal assessment can serve as a useful platform to shape ongoing discussions and strategic efforts. Conclusions The assessment identified strengths, opportunities, and challenges for institutional research ethics capacity at MakCHS. We believe this systematic approach was helpful in evaluating research ethics needs and provides a benchmark for institutions to measure progress over time.

Rapid assessment of institutional research ethics capacity: a case study from Zambia

“…Most notably, we were unable to speak with university students. In this rapid assessment, we did not conduct specific focus groups or in-depth interviews with students and faculty as we have in previous case studies (10,14). These tools allow us to gain more information and a wider range of opinions regarding ethics capacity (10,14).…”

“…We have previously detailed how we have adapted the Octagon Model for the institutional research ethics context, using modified criteria (10,14). Our evaluation and octagon score were based specifically on assessing the School of Medicine, The Directorate, and the ethics committee.…”

“…The history of FABTP and its partnership model have been described previously in several publications (10,14). The primary goal of the partnership was to help further research ethics capacity within the university.…”

“…Since 2010, FABTP has completed two such evaluations at universities in Uganda and Botswana (10,14). The UNZA case study employed many of the same methods, though it builds on the previously conducted assessments by attempting to produce a rapid version of an institutional assessment.…”

“…Evaluation is a key part of capacity development in any field; the growth of such evaluations has allowed for more targeted and successful research interventions (9). However, very few publications have focused specifically on evaluating research ethics and bioethics programs (10,11).…”