The focus of research are decided by the Research Council appointed by the Government. In deciding on grants for research in Sweden, the Head of Policy, the Council and the Unit have at their disposal reference groups representing various science disciplines. The Unit for Research Cooperation has a wide mandate in research support, encompassing natural sciences and technology, social science and humanities, natural resources and environmental protection as well as health care. The unit also contributes towards capacity building, for example through support for establishing universities and research councils in developing nations. The programs addressing this type of support is administered directly in the country teams.
Objectives
The overriding objective of research cooperation, as decided by Parliament, is to strengthen the research capacity of partner countries and promote development-oriented research.
Strengthening research capacity encompasses support to partner countries in creating a better research environment, researcher training as well as developing methods for planning and determining research priorities.
Promoting development-oriented research involves both financially and academically strengthening the ability of partner countries in identifying areas of importance for their development as well as disseminating research results.
To reach these objectives, Sida also promotes and facilitates cooperation between researchers in Sweden and partner countries.
Sida's Unit for Research Cooperation's webpage.
