Karatina University, through the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Extension, has strengthened the capacity of its researchers to communicate research evidence and engage policymakers following a three-day Research Communications and Policy Engagement Training held from 31st August to 2nd September 2026.
The training was organized in collaboration with the National Research Fund (NRF) and facilitated by experts from the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) through the Learning Together to Advance Evidence and Equity in Policymaking (LEEPS) Project. It brought together the Internal Research Fund awardees from different disciplines to build practical skills in research communication, stakeholder engagement and policy influence.
A section of the participants keenly following through the presentations.
The training focused on three key areas: the foundations of policymaking and evidence uptake, stakeholder mapping and strategic communications, and writing policy briefs. Participants explored the policy-making process and the role of research evidence at different stages of policy development, examined barriers and facilitators to evidence use, and learned how to identify research issues of interest to policymakers. They were also guided on stakeholder mapping, identifying and prioritising key stakeholders, developing policy goals and communication objectives, tailoring messages to different audiences, and writing for policy influence. The practical sessions included stakeholder analysis, crafting evidence-based policy messages, preparing and delivering elevator pitches to simulated policymakers, critiquing policy briefs, developing policy brief outlines and drafting policy briefs based on their areas of research.
Participants engage in practical group work discussions during the Training
The practical nature of the training enabled participants to move beyond theoretical understanding and develop approaches for communicating their research in clear, concise and accessible ways.
An important outcome of the training was the emergence of the Utafiti Dialogues Initiative at Karatina University, which seeks to strengthen the University’s engagement in research translation and evidence-informed policymaking by creating opportunities for sustained engagement between researchers and policymakers.
Through the Utafiti Dialogues Initiative, the University seeks to strengthen the link between research, innovation and policy, promote the production and use of policy briefs, and build relationships that facilitate the uptake of research evidence. The initiative is expected to contribute to strengthening Karatina University’s role as a reference point for evidence-informed policymaking.
Speaking during the final day of the training, Prof. Franklin Wabwoba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Research and Student Affairs, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, appreciated the facilitators and partners for supporting the capacity-building programme. He urged participants to make good use of the knowledge and skills gained during the training and challenged them to apply the lessons learnt to make a difference through their research.
Dr. Kioko Mwania addressing the audience during the closing ceremony
On the other hand, Dr. Kioko Mwania, representing the National Research Fund, reaffirmed NRF’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen the link between research and policy. He encouraged the participants to apply the skills gained during the training in communicating their research and engaging policymakers.
The participants pose for a group after the successful training
The training marks an important milestone in Karatina University’s continued efforts to strengthen research communication, deepen engagement with policymakers and enhance the impact of research and innovation. Through initiatives such as Utafiti Dialogues, the University is positioning research and innovation generated within the institution to contribute more effectively to informed decision-making and development challenges in Kenya and beyond.