Recommendations for Strengthening Research and Evaluation Capacity to Support Sustainable Health Programs

Recommendations for Strengthening Research and Evaluation Capacity to Support Sustainable Health Programs
Abstract: There is growing interest, particularly among health program funders, in assessing and measuring the sustainability of country-level health programs. However, recent initiatives to promote sustainability have primarily focused on programmatic needs. This has led to research and evaluation that is part of programming receiving less attention. Since sustainable health programming requires continual assessment and realignment to meet evolving needs, it is important to have corresponding research and evaluation capabilities.

Drawing on peer-reviewed and grey literature alongside interviews with a range of stakeholders both at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and in research organizations based in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), this document summarizes the main findings and presents key recommendations to support sustainable research and evaluation capacity for health programs.

USAID requested that D4I conduct an activity examining how to support sustainable research and evaluation capacity. Thus, this document was drafted with USAID as the primary audience. Additionally, it offers valuable insights and recommendations for USAID collaborators, including governments and research organizations, to enhance their strategies for evidence-based research capacity interventions. This guidance document is based on a review of published literature and key informant interviews with USAID staff and country-based organizations.
Shortname: WP-24-267
Author(s): Data for Impact
Year: 2024
Language: English