Evaluating North-South Health Research Partnerships
Author Information
Author(s): Susannah H Mayhew, Jane Doherty, Siriwan Pitayarangsarit
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
This study aims to evaluate the partnerships developed between the Health Economics and Financing Programme and research partners in South Africa and Thailand to strengthen health economics-related research capacity.
Conclusion
The study found that long-term north-south partnerships can significantly strengthen the capacities of public health research and training institutions in less developed countries.
Supporting Evidence
- Five years of partnership resulted in substantial strengthening of individual research skills.
- Joint projects in South Africa were particularly successful, leading to numerous publications.
- Post-graduate training in Thailand significantly enhanced research capacities.
Takeaway
This study shows that working together with partners from different countries can help improve health research skills and training in places that need it.
Methodology
Data from programme documents were collected over five years, and qualitative data were obtained from 25 in-depth interviews with programme staff.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the insider status of authors and their connections to the institutions involved.
Limitations
The study faced challenges in attributing specific outcomes to the partnership due to staff movement and the long-term nature of capacity building.
Participant Demographics
Participants included staff from health research institutions in South Africa and Thailand.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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