Vision:
To spearhead the mentorship of academic environment that foster a self-reliant, problem solving and research, innovation based community.

Mission Statement:
To be a catalyst for transformative change, driving pioneering research and innovation that addresses
pressing challenges and propels society forward through education, problem solving research and
innovative practices.

Strategic objectives:
1. To Inculcate in professional staff and students the creed for critical research, innovation, discovery
and publishing
2. To establish and build capacities of the university research department and faculties to originate,
conduct and advance basic and applied research

3. To Disseminate research findings to the academic world and the public through seminars and
journal articles.

Planned Activities:
1. Each faculty to design mandatory annual research programs under the supervision of the
department
2. Intensify research methodology training for staff and students.
3. Establish faculty or departmental monthly seminars
4. Introduce at least a journal to encourage publication of research results.
Why a Research and Innovation Department is needed.
Advancement of Knowledge
The primary purpose of a Research and Innovation department is to conduct original investigations,
contributing to the expansion of human knowledge. Professors, researchers, and students engage in
scholarly inquiry, leading to breakthroughs in various fields.

Innovation and Discovery
Research & Innovation department drives innovation by exploring new ideas, technologies, and
methodologies. The department fosters an environment where creativity flourishes, leading to the
development of novel solutions to real-world problems.
Academic Reputation
The department enhances the reputation of the university by attracting top talent, including faculty,
students, and funding agencies. This, in turn elevates the university's standing/rankings in academic circles
and among potential collaborators and partners.
Student Engagement and Learning
Research opportunities provided by the department in UPU enriches the educational experience of
students. Engaging in research projects allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical
scenarios, develop critical thinking skills, and foster a deeper understanding of their field of study.
Contribution to Society

Research conducted in UPU addresses pressing societal issues, such as environmental sustainability,
poverty alleviation, and technological advancement among others. Through their work, research
department contributes to the betterment of the society by providing evidence-based solutions and insights.
Economic Development
Research outcomes frequently contribute to the creation of intellectual property, startups, and partnerships
within the industry. These collaborations stimulate the economic growth by fostering entrepreneurship,
attracting investment, and facilitating the transfer of knowledge from academia to the commercial sector.

Policy Influence
UPU Research findings contributes to policy decisions at local, national, and international levels.
Governments and organizations rely on research-based evidence to formulate effective policies and
regulations addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges in our region, country and the world
at large
Global Collaboration
UPU research departments collaboratee with colleagues and institutions worldwide. These collaborations
facilitate the exchange of ideas, methodologies, and resources, enriching the research landscape and
fostering international cooperation and understanding.
Role of Research and Innovation department at UPU.
The Research and Innovation department in a university serves several crucial roles:
1. Facilitating Research Activities
The primary role of the UPU research and Innovation department is to facilitate research activities
across the university. This includes providing support for grant applications, managing research
funds, coordinating interdisciplinary research initiatives, and ensuring compliance with ethical and
regulatory standards.
2. Promoting Collaboration
The department fosters collaboration among faculty members, researchers, students, and external
partners. This is achieved by facilitating networking opportunities, organizing seminars, workshops,
and conferences, and maintaining partnerships with other academic institutions, industry, and

government agencies. The Research and Innovation department shall encourage interdisciplinary
research and knowledge exchange.
3. Supporting Innovation and Commercialization
Beyond basic research, the department supports innovation and the commercialization of research
outcomes. This involves assisting researchers in identifying potential applications of their work,
protecting intellectual property through patents and licenses, facilitating technology transfer
agreements with industry partners, and nurturing entrepreneurship among staff and students.
4. Promoting Research Ethics and Integrity
The Research and Innovation department is responsible for upholding high standards of research
ethics and integrity. This involves developing and implementing policies and procedures to ensure
the responsible conduct of research, including protocols for human subjects’ research, and data
management.
5. Engaging with the Community
The department serves as a bridge between the university and the broader community, promoting
public engagement with research and innovation activities. This will involve organizing outreach
events, science communication initiatives, and partnerships with local schools, businesses, and
community organizations.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation: Finally, the department is responsible for monitoring and evaluating
the impact of research and innovation activities. This includes assessing the quality and
productivity of research outputs, tracking outcomes such as publications, patents, and
commercialization activities, and reporting on the broader societal impact of university research.
Role and Responsibilities.
1. Director/Head of Department
Responsible for overall strategic direction, management, and coordination of the department's activities.
The director often reports to higher university administration.
2. Associate Director/Deputy HOD
Assist the director in overseeing specific areas such as research administration, innovation
commercialization, partnerships, or compliance.
3. Research Compliance Office (Research & Ethics Committee)

Ensures compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements for research involving human subjects,
animal subjects, biosafety, and export controls.
Facilitates the commercialization of research outcomes by protecting intellectual property, licensing
technologies to industry partners, and supporting startup ventures.
4. Innovation and Commercialization Office
Cultivates partnerships with industry, fosters collaborative research projects, and facilitates technology
transfer and knowledge exchange between academia and industry.
Provides support for faculty and students interested in entrepreneurship, including mentorship, training
programs, startup incubation, and access to funding resources.
Manages research facilities, equipment, and technical services to support the needs of researchers across
various disciplines.
5. Public Engagement, Outreach and Impact Assessment Office
Promotes the research and innovation activities of the university through media relations, marketing
campaigns, and science communication initiatives.
Organizes outreach events, science festivals, and educational programs to engage the public and build
relationships with local communities.
Conducts evaluations of research activities, tracks research outputs and outcomes, and assesses the
impact of research on academia, industry, and society.
Collects and analyzes data on research performance, productivity, and impact to inform strategic decision-
making and benchmarking.
6. Advisory Boards and Committees:
Provides guidance and oversight on the strategic direction of research and innovation activities.
Reviews and approves research protocols to ensure compliance with ethical standards and regulatory requirements.