An assessment of implementation science research capacity in Uganda

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Implementation Science
• Global Health

Background:

• Research findings translation into policy and practice is challenging in resource-poor settings like Uganda.
• Implementation science (ImSc) offers a pathway to accelerate research translation.
• The current ImSc research capacity and training needs among Ugandan researchers are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the existing implementation science (ImSc) research capacity among Ugandan researchers.
• To identify the specific ImSc training needs and preferences of potential trainees in Uganda.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 190 potential ImSc trainees in Kampala, Uganda.
• Data collected included eligibility for ImSc training, knowledge, interest, self-assessed confidence in initiating research (SCICR and SCIIR), training availability, and preferred training modes.
• Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and ordinal logistic regression to identify predictors of SCIIR.

Main Results:

• The majority of participants (73%) knew about ImSc, and 80% had prior research training, but only 9% had received ImSc-specific training.
• Previous ImSc training was significantly associated with higher self-assessed confidence in initiating ImSc research (SCIIR) and improved skills in behavior change theory integration and intervention design frameworks.
• Participants preferred short, modular, in-person (53%) or online (33%) training sessions over year-long programs, with an average availability of 6 hours per week.

Conclusions:

• Ugandan researchers demonstrate a foundational understanding of ImSc and a strong interest in further training.
• Prior ImSc training positively impacts researchers' skills and confidence, highlighting the value of specialized education.
• A flexible, hybrid training model combining face-to-face and online components is recommended to meet the preferences and needs of potential ImSc trainees in Uganda.