This collaboration conducted educational research to inform program and policy development in Malawi’s public education system. The partners formed a steering committee that included representatives of various stakeholder groups in Malawi to guide the process.

The U.S. partners conducted a needs assessment to determine the knowledge and skill levels of Malawian faculty in research methodologies, information technology, and the availability of computer resources. The steering committee selected 24 individuals to receive intensive instruction in educational research. With guidance from an instructor, the students developed research proposals and conducted research projects on basic education issues in Malawi.

The steering committee also adopted a policy paper outlining strategies for ongoing activities and instruction to sustain partnership goals the initial grant period. The policy paper provided several options for government officials, policy makers, and administrators, depending on their long-term objectives and the availability of fiscal and human resources.