Document(s) 9 of 9

Knowledge, gained through research, is of critical importance for uncovering paths to sustainable and equitable development in the South. The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) was founded on this principle more than 30 years ago.

 

Research can shed new light on difficult problems: pinpointing causes, defining obstacles and, most importantly, pointing to real and practical choices for creating change. IDRC-supported research has revealed new ways to fight malaria without the use of DDT,  strategies for local-level water management in arid regions of the world, and innovative approaches for using information and communications technologies to improve the delivery of health services in remote rural areas,  to cite just a few examples.

 

We know research can make a difference. But its potential is realized, in large measure, by the individual women and men who undertake the sometimes daunting challenge of doing research in the developing world. Their ingenuity, skills, capacity, and commitment are often what makes a crucial difference.

 

For this reason, IDRC has always placed an emphasis on building the capacity of researchers, in the South and in Canada. Fellowships and Awards embodies IDRC’s commitment to the personal and professional development of Canadians, permanent residents of Canada and developing-country nationals. Most of IDRC’s training funds and awards are granted to individuals doing research directly related to, and in, the context of IDRC’s programs and projects.

 

By supporting academic study and offering opportunities for hands-on experience, IDRC is helping countries of the South to provide themselves with a critical mass of trained and experienced researchers to promote sustainable and equitable development in their regions. At the same time, we are giving a new generation of Canadians an opportunity to participate actively in international development issues and to consider careers in this field.

 

In so doing the Centre aims to increase the pool of researchers, in Canada and in the South, who have the experience, skills, ability – and even the passion – for taking up the challenge of addressing international development issues in their work.

 

Document(s) 9 of 9