Directorate Of Research, Innovation And Consultancy (dric)
MISSION
To coordinate, support, and promote research, innovation, and consultancy services that generate sustainable solutions, strengthen industry linkages, and contribute positively to national and global development.
VISION
To become a leading hub of knowledge creation, innovation, and industry engagement, ensuring long-term relevance, competitiveness, and contribution to national and global development.
About the Directorate
The Directorate of Research, Innovation and Consultancy (DRIC) was established to provide strategic leadership and infrastructure needed to coordinate research priorities, secure competitive grants, commercialize intellectual property, expand consultancy services, and ensure alignment with the national development priorities and Sustainable Development Goals. (SDGs).
Reporting directly to the Vice-Chancellor, the Directorate provides leadership for the research agenda, grant acquisition, and industry partnerships to enhance institutional relevance, competitiveness, and visibility.
The Directorate is supported by four sectional units, namely:
- Technology Innovation Unit – responsible for fostering creativity, developing prototypes, and supporting the commercialization of research outputs.
- Research Coordination Unit – tasked with managing research activities, monitoring progress, and ensuring alignment with the University’s research agenda.
- Training and Capacity Building Unit – dedicated to enhancing the skills of faculty, staff, and students through workshops, seminars, and professional development initiatives.
- Grants and Consultancy Unit – focused on prospecting for research funding, coordinating consultancy services, and strengthening university–industry linkages.
OBJECTIVES
The Directorate of Research, Innovation, and Consultancy is guided by the following objectives:
- Coordinate and implement the university’s overall research strategy and agenda in alignment with its mission and national development priorities.
- Identify, attract, and manage both internal and external funding to support research initiatives.
- Foster creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship by translating research into practical products, services, and business ventures.
- Facilitate the commercialization of research outputs and the transfer of new technologies from the university to industry and society.
- Promote the dissemination of research findings through publications, conferences, and community engagement to enhance societal and economic impact.
- Provide training and professional development opportunities to strengthen the capacity of students, staff and researchers.
