Vol 1 - Support Services Ufs Ac Za - University of the Free State

A Strategy for Quality ResearchDeveloping a research culture through astrategic focus on research develop mentThe University of the Free State (UFS) committeditself to an innovative focus on research asone of the three core functions of theUniversity, being the aspect that usually determinesthe reputation of a university. This was a significantand essential step. With more extensive resourcesand a stable academic environment, the Universityleadership perceived good potential for obtain ingrapid results with innovative ap proach es. Consequently,a new Strategic Frame work aimed at theproactive develop ment of re search at the UFS wasimplemented during 2003, with a shift of emphasisfrom the admin is trative to the strategic managementthereof. In order to really make a difference withina short period, this Strategy was designed to beholistic, logically thought through, streamlined,focused and effective.The Directorate Research Development (DRD)was established in 2002 and tasked with both theconsultative design and implementation of the newStrategy. From the outset the DRD understood thatthe value added by its activities must far exceed theresources it expends. This required innovativeapproaches and a professional, dedicated andservice-oriented team cooperating closely withresearchers and partners to the benefit of researchat the University.The overarching goal of the Strategic Frameworkfor the Development of Research at the Universityof Free State is to develop a research culturethrough a strategic focus on research development.This was achieved through synergistic researchpolicy directives, effective strategies and a strategicunder standing of the research environment. Anessential success factor to this goal remains apersonnel corps who understands and acceptscritical changes and new approaches in the universityenvironment, both nationally and internationally.This goal is underpinned by five supportingobjectives, derived directly from the University’sbroad goals of excellence, equity and innovationand aligned with its overall strategic priorities.• Quality assurance: Ensure an inter na tion al lycompetitive research system through highquality researchers and ef fec tive and qualitypostgraduate training.• Equity: Development of the research capa ci tyof priority groups.• Financial sustainability: Enhance the pro file ofthe UFS as a research-oriented in stitu tion, inorder to effectively increase income fromexternal sources.• Support systems: Ensure user-friendly andeffective systems that facilitate and sup portresearch at the University, and culti vate loyaltyand enthusiasm for re search through therecognition of pro gress and achievement at alllevels.• Output dimension: Stimulate research andincrease research outputs by using internalfunds effectively.12