Africa generates less than 1% of the world’s research. As part of IPA's Researcher Diversification Initiative, aiming at increasing the participation of local researchers in low- and middle-income countries, IPA Francophone West Africa hosted a research proposal writing workshop, on July 20, 2023, in Bamako in Mali. This workshop aimed to equip the next generation of researchers with practical tools and tips for writing a strong research proposal. 

Participants made up of IPA staff and researchers from the Université des Sciences Sociales et de Gestion de Bamako discussed some mistakes to avoid in research proposal writing and strategies and ideas to increase researchers' chances of securing research grants. Other topics covered during the workshop included: preparation for budget management prior to submission, working with principal investigators to develop a strong research design, and incorporating the impact of results to relevant policy issues.

IPA's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) aligns with its commitment to expanding the network of local researchers. From IPA’s perspective, advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion strengthens its work, making it more responsive to the challenges faced by the people it serves.