Science council shows academic reviewers how

The National Commission for Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) last week conducted an academic Reviewers Training Workshop for NCRST reviewers and potential reviewers of research proposals.
The commission said its goal is to upgrade effective knowledge and skills to streamline the evaluation process. The training workshop reviewed the current NCRST guidelines on reviewing the quality of research and innovation proposals and it defined a number of reviewer incentives.
The workshop assisted participants to gain the ability to assess the quality of a research or innovation proposals in a professional manner. The workshop also served as a platform for reviewers to network and to become better informed of the commissioni’s research proposal reviewing process.
After conclusion of the workshop, the commission said academic reviewers play a significant role in the evaluation process of the NCRST grant management process, and the organisation depends on a team of reviewers to help assess the quality, scientific validity, authenticity, innovativeness, and usefulness of the research proposals received during each research call.
During the workshop, participants from various tertiary institutions engaged in practical exercises which provided skills, encouraged participation and the exchange of information.
At the opening ceremony, Ms Alushe Nditya, the commission’s Manager for Resource Mobilazation and Grant Management said “The NCRST appreciates the efforts and commitment that reviewers dedicate to evaluate research proposals, and in doing so they need to be rewarded accordingly. The discussions at the workshop and the information shared, can be applied effectively in your role as reviewers.”