Abstract

The Research Support and Management Office at Nelson Mandela University was awarded a participation spot in the SARIMA-GATES Research Support Office Boost (RSOBOOST) project, designed to enhance capacity and improve research management practices. This project aims to develop research support offices, building capacity to support research governance, finance strategic initiatives and other aspects that support the university brand, and to ensure the university operates at an international standard in all these processes. The project provided an opportunity for accreditation through the Good Financial Grant Practice accreditation process, and various learning visits by staff members in the diverse portfolios allowed for capacity training and peer learning. Collaboratively, the research office identified challenges, which included insufficient capacity in grant management, limited visibility of research and researchers, and the need for stronger pre- and post-award practices. Through RSOBOOST, we have made significant strides in addressing these challenges. The project facilitated the profiling of researchers and their work, fostering stronger partnerships with funders and enhancing the university’s research profile. Activities included developing concept notes, information management, crafting compelling proposals to attract funding, we established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidelines to streamline research processes, ensuring consistency and quality in our operations. The initiative has also allowed us to spotlight flagship research programs, maintaining visibility both within the university and in the broader research community. By emphasizing knowledge valorisation and the strategic use of research outputs, we aim to elevate the university's brand and enhance its attractiveness to potential funders in industry, government, and civic sectors. This presentation will detail how our participation in the RSOBOOST project has not only benefited the Research Support Office but has also had a positive impact on the university as a whole. We will share insights on effective practices that emerged from the project, illustrating how targeted capacity strengthening can lead to improved research management, increased funding opportunities, and ultimately, a more robust research environment at Nelson Mandela University.