The National Commission for Science Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) trained twenty-five (25) members of JOOUST-Institutional Ethics Review Committee (IERC) and selected staff on critical appraisal of research protocols. The training which was held at the JOOUST Main Campus from 20th to 21st June, 2019 was conducted by five (5) facilitators from NACOSTI. The facilitators were led by Dr. Stephen Karimi, Director (Registration, Accreditation &Quality Assurance) at the Commission.
Dr. Karimi who represented NACOSTI Director General noted that the Commission had selected facilitators from the National Bioethics Committee to conduct the training. “ This training will impart skills and knowledge leading to transformation needed in Kenya for promotion of global competitiveness in research.” Said Dr. Karimi. Prof. Maria Onyango who represented the Vice-Chancellor pointed out that the key skills acquired will be useful in sensitizing JOOUST staff and building capacity of IERC members in carrying out review of research protocols. Prof. Francis Ang’awa, the acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Administration and Finance) who is the IERC Chairperson also noted that the University will host the second training in two months’ time to complete the training circle to enable the trainees be awarded certificates.
The modules of the training included introduction to research ethics; ethical principles in research; composition and functions of IERCs; study designs; integrity in research and publication; informed consent; review of behavioral and social science; and, institutional support of IERCs.