The National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI) has taken significant strides in upholding research standards across Kenya, recently concluding comprehensive verification assessments of two proposed research institutes and four institutional scientific and ethical review committees (ISERCs). This initiative is part of NACOSTI’s mandate to ensure the relevance and quality of research, science, technology, and innovation (RSTI) in Kenya.
The two research institutes assessed were the Nyanza Reproductive Health Society, which operates from the Lumumba Sub-County Hospital, and the Victoria Biomedical Research Institute, based at the Kisumu County Referral Hospital. The institutional scientific and ethical review committees evaluated for accreditation include those from Kibabii University, Kakamega County General Hospital, Kaimosi Friends University, and Vyxer REMIT Kenya Limited.
Upholding Research Standards and Ethics
Under the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Act, 2013, any entity intending to establish or operate a research institute in Kenya must apply for registration with NACOSTI. Once registered, a research institute is required to set up an Institutional Scientific and Ethical Review Committee (ISERC) to oversee the ethical conduct of research activities. These committees must also be accredited by NACOSTI to ensure compliance with national and international research ethics standards.
Application for Registration and Accreditation
Institutions seeking to register a research institute or obtain accreditation for their ISERCs can apply through NACOSTI’s online portal at https://nacosti.ecitizen.go.ke. This process aims to streamline compliance and enhance transparency in Kenya’s research sector.
For more information on NACOSTI’s regulatory processes, visit www.nacosti.go.ke.