Terms Of Reference: Case Studies Identifying Research and Innovation Impact from South African Universities at African Population And Health Research Center (APHRC)

Role
University research plays a critical role in improving wellbeing, informing policy decisions, and driving innovation. However, the impact of this research often remains under-communicated, hindering efforts to secure sustained funding and public support. While quantitative data is essential, compelling case studies go beyond mere numbers. They weave narratives that capture the human stories behind the research, highlighting the challenges addressed, the innovative solutions developed, and the real-world impact on societal outcomes. These narratives resonate with audiences, generating greater understanding and appreciation for the value of research. The case studies produced in this workstream target a diverse audience, including:

• Funders: Highlighting the transformative power of research investments.
• Policymakers: Demonstrating the research-policy nexus and influencing policy decisions.
• Public: Raising awareness about the impact of research on their lives.
• Media: Generating media interest and amplifying the research’s impact.
• Led by APHRC, the workstream aims to identify, analyse and document four case studies showcasing the impact of research and innovation projects conducted by South African universities. The case studies will highlight the tangible contributions of university research and innovation to national priorities and broader societal well-being.
• Criteria for Selecting Case Studies

Prepare a Short Summary (2 Pages Maximum)

• Charts and Infographics: Visualize data and trends to make complex information more easily understood by the audience.
• Photographs: Images of researchers, healthcare providers, community members, or interventions in action can personalize the narrative.
• Short Video Clips: Short videos can capture the essence of the research and its impact in a compelling way.
   
• Researchers: Sharing their insights into the research process and the significance of the findings.
• Policymakers: Describing how the research influenced policy decisions.
• Healthcare Providers: Highlighting how the research improved their practice or patient care.
• Community Members: Sharing their experiences and how the research impacted their health and well-being.
• External stakeholder collaboration (research partners, funders, regulators)
• University support structures (including Research Management Offices, Technology Transfer Offices)
• Internal policies and systems promoting research impact.
• Deliverables
• A set of four well-written, compelling case studies demonstrating impactful research and innovation from South African universities.
• Dissemination and Advocacy Strategies
• APHRC Website and Social Media: A dedicated webpage will be created on the APHRC website to showcase the case studies. This webpage will be promoted through social media platforms like X, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
• SARIMA Website and Social Media: The case studies will be showcased on the SARIMA website, and promoted through social media platforms like X and LinkedIn.
• Other channels and platforms will be discussed and agreed between the funder, APHRC and SARIMA.
• 2 Reporting and Communication
• Timeline
• Submission of Potential Research for Case Study Development
• Briefly describe the research project and its objectives.
• Highlight the specific challenge the research addressed.
• Summarize the research approach and key findings.
• Explain how the research made impact and quantify this impact (if possible).
• Include any evidence of policy influence or potential for scale-up.

Provide Supporting Materials (To The Extent Applicable)

• Include relevant publications, reports, or presentations related to your research.
• Share any data (quantitative or qualitative) that demonstrates impact.
• Offer contact details for key individuals involved in the project eg researchers, funders, end-users, beneficiaries and others who played a role in ensuring that impact was achieved (including – without limitation the institutional Research Support Office).