About Us - Support Initiative for African Researchers (SIFAR)

About SRF-SIFAR

The Support Initiative for African Researchers, a program (established in June 2024) is a component of Soar Research Foundation’s (SRF) Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. With a focus on accelerating Africa’s catch-up on its research and development aspirations. We focus on raising a large community of problem solvers through research career inspiration, research skills empowerment and support.

Challenges faced by young elites towards taking on research careers

Young researchers in Africa face significant challenges, including limited recognition, inadequate funding, mentorship, and access to essential infrastructure. SIFAR addresses these barriers by providing comprehensive support, empowering them to thrive and lead in Africa’s research and innovation landscape.

Limited Awareness and Recognition of Research Careers

Research is often undervalued as a career path, with limited awareness and recognition, reducing its appeal to young people.

Insufficient Funding and Resources

There is a lack of financial support for training, skilling, and seed grants, making it difficult for young researchers to advance their careers.

Inadequate Mentorship and Internship Opportunities

The scarcity of mentorship and internship programs hinders young researchers from gaining the practical experience and guidance they need.

Restricted Access to Research Infrastructure

Many young researchers face barriers in accessing essential infrastructure like laboratories, which limits their ability to conduct high-quality research.

Limited Continuous Learning and Support Platforms

There are few platforms that offer ongoing learning and support, essential for the continuous growth and development of young researchers.

Challenges in Securing Research-Oriented Employment

Young researchers often struggle to find employment opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations, due to a lack of connections and recognition in the job market.

Be a Problem Solver!

Vision

A growing research- empowered young Elite African community.

Goal

Advocating and promoting the recognition of research as a career path and raising resources to support the skilling of a large body of students and graduates in research as a foundation for the attainment and sustainability of a knowledge-driven economies and societies in Africa.

Mission

Inspiring, Training, Mentoring, Networking and Market-positioning of a new generation of researchers to sustain Africa’s development.

SRF-SIFAR Organizational Structure

The SRF-SIFAR organizational structure is designed to ensure effective coordination and collaboration across all facets of our initiative. Guided by the SRF management team and supported by the Advisory/Steering Committee, our efforts are channeled through specialized teams dedicated to training, research, advocacy, monitoring and evaluation, and publicity.

Dr Daniel Atwiine

Director

Caroline Birungi

Regulation

Eunice Asiimwe

Administration

Nakalema Assumpta

IT systems and Digital inclusion

The driving forces behind SIFAR’s mission

Comprising experts from diverse backgrounds, each member brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and commitment to fostering research excellence across the continent. Together, we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of problem-solvers who will lead Africa’s development into the future.

Join Us

The first step to advancing your research career starts here.
Connect with us now.