HEARD Strategic Plan 2011 - 2015 by info ratn

strategy Knowledge and Evidence for Impact Integrating HIV Responses with Human Development

University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville Campus, J Block, Level 4, University Rd, Durban, 4041, South Africa

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tel +27 (0)31 260 2592 fax +27 (0)31 260 2587 heard@ukzn.ac.za www.heard.org.za

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Table of Contents Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................01 1.

EPIDEMICS AND RESPONSES IN SOUTHERN AFRICA ................................05 1.1

The Epidemics......................................................................................................05

1.2

The Challenge of Response .................................................................................07

HEARD 2006 - 2010.............................................................................................10 2.1

Background ..........................................................................................................10

2.2

Mission and Objectives.........................................................................................10

2.3

Organisation and Governance..............................................................................11

2.4

Research - Knowledge and Evidence for Focused Impact...................................11

2.5

Research Capacity Building in Africa....................................................................12

2.6

African Leadership - Taking Evidence to Leadership ...........................................13

2.7

Geographic Location ............................................................................................13

THE STRATEGY ..................................................................................................15 3.1

Specific Goals and Intended Strategic Impact......................................................15

3.2

Logical Framework for the Strategy......................................................................15

3.3

Regional Value-Add..............................................................................................15

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STRATEGY ...........................................................18

4.1 RESEARCH ........................................................................................................................18 4.1.1

Focused Programmes and Research Activities....................................................18 Programme One: Prevention and Social Mobilisation ..........................................18 Programme Two: Health Systems and Health and Care Access .........................19 Programme Three: Health and HIV in an Urban Context .....................................20 Research Collaborations ......................................................................................21

4.1.2

Structured Dissemination .....................................................................................21

4.1.3

Capacity Building for HEARD Researchers..........................................................22

4.2 UTILISATION ......................................................................................................................22 4.2.1

Utilisation-Driven Research ..................................................................................22

4.3 RESEARCH CAPACITY .....................................................................................................22 4.3.1

PhD Programme...................................................................................................22

4.3.2

Young Researchers Initiative ................................................................................22

4.3.3

Regional Networks of Research Excellence.........................................................23

4.4 LEADERSHIP SUPPORT ...................................................................................................23 4.4.1

Support to SADC Structures.................................................................................23 HIV and Economics Technical Working Group (TWG) .........................................23 Research Support ................................................................................................23 Parliamentary Support Programme......................................................................23

4.4.2

HIV Leadership Training Programme ...................................................................23

4.4.3

Evidence Supporting Regional Priorities ..............................................................23 Prevention Thinking .............................................................................................23

Gender Programme .............................................................................................24 HIV and Education Programme ...........................................................................24 Private Sector Programme ...................................................................................24 4.4.4

Evidence Supporting Emerging Priorities .............................................................24 Urban and Slums HIV Response Programme .....................................................24 Disability Programme ...........................................................................................25 HIV and Health Dialogue Series ..........................................................................25

4.5 REGIONAL NEEDS RESPONSE FUNCTION....................................................................25 5.

RISK AND RISK MANAGEMENT........................................................................26

INDICATIVE BUDGET .........................................................................................27

ANNEX A: BOARD COMPOSITION .........................................................................................28 ANNEX B: KEY RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS .......................................................................29 ANNUAL REPORTS .................................................................................................................30 RESEARCH LOGIC TABLE......................................................................................................31

These figures are unsustainable socially, medically and

Executive Summary

financially without 'turning off the tap' of new infections via successful prevention initiatives. Key areas include multiple and concurrent partnerships, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, addressing young people, sexual violence, and gender. The continuing separation of HIV responses from other

HEARD is a renowned research centre at the University of

major health issues in the region (malaria, TB and

KwaZulu-Natal, Durban. It focuses both regionally, in east

maternal and child health) is not helpful and needs

and southern Africa, and globally on generating

addressing, as do structural factors. Cash transfers,

knowledge and evidence to improve health, roll back HIV

keeping young people in school, nutrition and food

and achieve human development goals.

security and support and services for migrants are illustrations of programming aimed at a broader

HEARD has operated successfully for 12 years and, with

integration of HIV with human development.

this strategy, is envisaging its contribution and how to resource this over the next five years.

Southern Africa: a critical HIV juncture There are 22.4 million people living with HIV or AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Two-thirds (67%) of the 33 million people globally with HIV live here, and three-quarters of all deaths in 2007 occurred in this region. The social and economic implications of AIDS continue to grow and will be followed by conjoined waves of 'stressor-increasing' issues such as increased pressure on households, migration, food insecurity and growing fragility of health systems. Evidence points to such variations across the region, even within countries, that language is beginning to change in order to describe multiple epidemics and to encourage key actors to 'know their epidemic'. Much has been learned about successful responses to rolling back HIV. Scaling up of components that are known to be high impact such as ARV treatment, circumcision and prevention of mother-to-child transmission is now a

Knowledge and evidence for impact: HEARD's contribution to the region This strategy responds to the current needs by building on HEARD's strengths and experience in generating knowledge from research; supporting leadership and system responses with evidence; and building regional research capacity. The strategy aims to use HEARD's unique place between academic excellence and activism to play a pivotal role in leveraging evidence into action. HEARD's overarching goal and the goal for the strategy is to contribute to the production and utilisation of knowledge and evidence which support integrating health, HIV and human development responses in eastern and southern Africa. The specific objectives of the strategy are: -

(KNOWLEDGE) -

needed for resource mobilisation, while countries must scale up their responses and provide leadership. Treatment for the millions with HIV is essential. It brings individuals back to health and allows families and

To promote the utilisation of knowledge and evidence in support of health, HIV and

major challenge. The region worst hit does not have the resources to respond adequately. Global commitment is

To produce new knowledge through research

(UTILISATION)

development responses -

To enhance HIV and health research capacity (RESEARCH CAPACITY)

To support leadership in integrating focused HIV responses into sustainable human development. (LEADERSHIP SUPPORT)

communities to function. Yet at present for every one person put on ART, three to five become newly infected.

strategy

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Strategic Objectives

Research Focused programmes and research activities Structured dissemination

Modalities

Utilisation Utilisationdriven research

Research Capacity PhD Programme

Young Researchers Initiative Regional network of research excellence

Capacity building for HEARD researchers

Leadership Support Support to SADC structures and programmes HIV leadership training programme Evidence supporting regional priorities Evidence supporting emerging priorities

Regional needs response function Table 1: Modalities for achieving the strategies To achieve strategic outcomes, HEARD will employ 12 modalities of delivery summarised in Table 1.

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strategy

Research HEARD proposes engaging three research programmes: Programme One:

Prevention and Social Mobilisation

Programme Two:

Health Systems and Health and Care Access

Programme Three:

Health and HIV in an Urban Context

These are derived from a research paradigm shown below:

Feed backs to change the context in the long term Feed backs that inform intra-programme foci

Contextual issues

Programme areas

Changing context of HIV and AIDS Ÿ Vulnerability and multiple stressors Ÿ Rapid global environmental and social change

1. Prevention and Social Mobilisation 2. Health Systems and Health and Care Access 3. Health and HIV in an Urban Context

Focal areas

Guiding issues

Gender Equity Sexual and Reproductive Health and Human Rights Disability and HIV Caregiving Youth Development Maternal Child Health

Ÿ Ÿ

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Channeli

ination d dissem

Leadership at all Levels (including civil society) Ÿ African Capacity Building Ÿ Regional and Global Policy

of eviden

isation a

and util esearch,

Millennium Development Goals (Gender, Child Health, Maternal Health, Combating Disease 3,4,5,6) Ÿ Sustainable Responses Ÿ Regional Relevance

Informing and influencing

ng of r

Figure 1: Schematic Framework for HEARD's 2011-2015 Research Strategy Notes: On the left are listed the issues which shape the context of, and motive for HEARD's research. Within the proposed programme areas, intra-programme focal areas have been identified; further development of these will be in response to research findings and feedback from stakeholders and leadership. Guiding issues provide a 'channel' for shaping utilisation outputs. Finally, all efforts in research, utilisation and dissemination of evidence are aimed at informing leadership, African capacity building, and regional and global policy.

strategy

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In addition to conducting research HEARD will continue to

Supporting civil society leaders via the '50 by 15'

disseminate findings via peer reviewed scientific journals,

movement, evidence in support of community

presentations, issue and policy briefs and workshops.

programming, and issue evidence made available

Research will also continue to be used to build capacity of

in an accessible manner to CSOs

HEARD staff and partners.

A leadership training programme aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge via post-

Utilisation

graduate training in HIV and Health Response

The new strategy intends an increased focus on

Management

promoting the uptake of research in order to leverage

Gathering evidence and mobilising responses

evidence-based action. This will be shaped by utilisation-

aimed at supporting existing regional priorities

driven research design, a knowledge and evidence team

such as gender programming, prevention and

that reviews findings for utilisation opportunities,

youth

strengthened partnerships outside of HEARD and through the Leadership Support Programme within HEARD.

Mobilising evidence aimed at putting emerging or controversial issues on the agendas of regional leadership. Emerging current issues include

Research capacity Enhancing the capacity of the region to conduct research

urban and slum HIV, disability and HIV, and HIV and chronic illness.

and generate knowledge on the epidemics and on effective responses is essential. HEARD will do this in

Regional response resource

three specific ways that build on its growing capacity and

In addition to all programming envisaged within the strategy, HEARD intends to boost its resources to enable

its research. -

HEARD's PhD programme will continue to place

it to respond to requests from key players in the region for

PhD candidates from across the SADC and

evidence of systems support in rolling back HIV.

eastern African region -

The Young Researchers Initiative will continue to

HEARD's track record

support emerging researchers in gaining work

HEARD began in 1998 when knowledge about HIV was

experience through internships, and publishing

limited. It has grown into a centre of excellence. Research

skills via mentorships and training

findings have been translated into substantial

A 'regional networks of research excellence'

contributions to knowledge about HIV and AIDS; impacts

concept will see HEARD partner with at least one

across east and southern Africa including increasing

other east or southern African research institution

stressors and human development implications and

to establish a twin centre of excellence in HIV

responses and systems. This evidence has fed into

research, extending a research network across

thinking and action at national, regional and global levels.

the region. More recently HEARD has responded to emerging needs

Leadership support

by extending its activities into research capacity-building

This focus is on utilising evidence to support strong,

in Africa and leadership support.

principled leadership on HIV and development goals. It To enhance its impact HEARD works with a range of

will consist of: -

Supporting SADC leaders via SADC structures

activity partners as well as a number of strategic actors.

including acting as a secretariat to a proposed

Amongst the latter are UNAIDS (HEARD is a UNAIDS

technical working group on HIV and Economics;

collaborating centre), the World Bank, SADC and the

supporting regional research planning and

SADC Parliamentary Forum, and regional networks of

management; and giving support to SADC

HIV NGOs and HIV training organisations.

parliaments

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strategy

1 Epidemics

and Responses in Southern Africa

be remaining constant, but at exceedingly high levels. The epidemics in Zambia and Malawi show signs of stabilising. There has been a decline in HIV prevalence in Zimbabwe; prevalence among pregnant women fell from 26% in 2002 to 18% in 2006. In Botswana, a decline in HIV prevalence amongst women aged 15-19 years indicates that the rate of new infections could be slowing down. However, there are problems of measurement: incidence data are hard to come by and if treatment is successfully rolled out, then

HEARD has conducted research that informs and

prevalence should rise as people live longer.

influences responses in Africa and globally since 1998. For the last five years it has concentrated its efforts in

Why is HIV so rampant in this region? Studies and

southern Africa though it is doing more work in east Africa

speculation have not yielded 'the' answer. It is believed

and locally in South Africa. This section on epidemics and

southern Africa faces a unique combination of factors from

responses in the region highlights patterns, trends and

biological to economic, social and cultural. Biologic factors

issues that inform HEARD's strategy for 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015.

include the fact that men are not circumcised, high levels of sexually transmitted diseases and poor nutrition.

1.1 The Epidemics Sub-Saharan Africa is home to 67 percent of the 33 million people living with HIV. Three- quarters of all AIDS deaths

Unequal economic development has left many in poverty especially in rural areas. Migration has been common for decades. Behaviours include multiple concurrent partnering and intergenerational sex.

occurred here in 2007. The epidemic is worst in southern Africa; it is known as the hyper-endemic region. In the SADC mainland countries of Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe 12 million adults were living with HIV in 2008 (Table 1).

The effects of HIV/AIDS on households are wide-ranging and not just on those with infections. HIV/AIDS creates social and economic stress; stretches available social security income; and increases demand on both the nuclear and extended family. There is evidence of instances of household collapse in the face of these

South Africa has the largest number of people living with

additional stressors.

HIV. It was estimated that in 2008 about 5.2 million people were HIV positive. The national HIV prevalence among women attending ante-natal clinics has stabilised at around 29 percent, according to the 2008 National Antenatal Sentinel HIV Prevalence Survey. This is unacceptably high and the incidence of new infections is of great concern. Government departments, especially

Sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) disproportionately affect women and girls of all ages and are major risk factors. Sexual violence against females occurs across all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Women are socialised to accept, tolerate and rationalise such experiences and remain silent.

health, social welfare and education, are battling to cope with the impact of the epidemics. The South African national budget is facing increased demands. The highest national prevalence in the world is in Swaziland where, in 2008, 42 percent of women attending antenatal clinics were HIV positive. Data indicate that in Mozambique and Lesotho, HIV prevalence amongst pregnant women continues to increase. In Namibia, Zambia and Botswana adult HIV prevalence appears to

strategy

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strategy $815 125 61

HDI Ranking (182 Lowest Ranking)

UN Gini Coefficient (UNDP 2009)

$13,300

Health Expenditure Per Capita

GDP Per Capita (USD$)

Life Expectancy Male

Under-Five Mortality (per 1,000)

79%

Life Expectancy Female

ARV Coverage Rate

117,000

95,000

AIDS Orphans

ARV Treatment

11,000

AIDS Deaths

120,000

15,000

Children Living with HIV/AIDS

ARV Need

61%

280,000

23.90%

52.5

156

$98

$1,600

26%

45,300

85,000

110,000

18,000

12,000

58%

260,000

23.20%

BOTSWANA LESOTHO

Women Living with HIV/AIDS (as a % of Adults Living with HIV/AIDS)

Adults Living with HIV/AIDS

Adult HIV/AIDS Prevalence Rate

INDICATORS

74.3

128

$261

$5,400

88%

59,000

66,000

5,100

14,000

61%

180,000

15.30%

57.8

129

$715

$10,000

28%

701,000

1,700,000

1,400,000

350,000

280,000

59%

5,400,000

18.10%

50.7

142

$300

$5,100

42%

32,700

59,000

56,000

10,000

15,000

59%

170,000

26.10%

50.7

164

$79

$1,500

170

46%

226,000

330,000

600,000

56,000

95,000

57%

980,000

15.20%

n/a

50.1

$200

47.1

172

$36

$900

168

44 45

24%

128,000

370,000

400,000

81,000

100,000

58%

1,400,000

12.50%

17%

148,000

570,000

1,000,000

140,000

120,000

57%

1,200,000

15.30%

34.6

151

$72

$1,300

116

31%

154,000

440,000

970,000

96,000

140,000

58%

1,300,000

6.20%

29.8

171

$26

$800.00

119

29%

132,000

310,000

650,000

67,000

92,000

60%

890,000

2.10%

NAMIBIA SOUTH AFRICA SWAZILAND ZAMBIA ZIMBABWE MOZAMBIQUE TANZANIA ETHIOPIA

Table 2 HIV and AIDS in Selected SADC and East African Countries: Key Indicators (2006 -2008)

42.6

157

$71

$1,100.0 0

131

33%

164,000

160

$62

$800

110

35%

147,000

290,000

560,000

1,200,00 0 350,000

68,000

91,000

58%

840,000

11.90%

77,000

130,000

59%

810,000

5.40%

UGANDA MALAWI

1.2 The Challenge of Response HEARD is an applied research and development organisation which works to guide and improve responses to the HIV epidemics and health issues in the region. Our strategy for the period 2011-2015 is to build on the work we have produced and are engaged in. Foci will be the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs); gender and structural inequalities; and HIV prevention. This has to be seen in the context of new regional challenges.

reversing the spread of HIV/AIDS and other diseases, a core focus for HEARD. HIV/AIDS go hand in hand with poverty and inequality. People who lack basic resources and education are at high risk of infection as they are forced to make choices that compromise their lives. Social policy analysts argue for increasing primary education; addressing structural gender inequalities; reducing hunger and providing treatment; and for nations creating an environment in which people are less vulnerable to HIV as well as other infectious diseases. HEARD works to provide the

The Millennium Development Goals

evidence for such policy and evaluates interventions.

Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger

Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education

Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women

Goal 4: Reduce child mortality

people at the centre of health and development. It will

Goal 5: Improve maternal health

continue to support systems that enhance effective co-

Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases

Goal 7: Ensure environmental sustainability

Goal 8: Develop a global partnership for development

Civil society and people living with HIV/AIDS play a critical role in the fight against HIV/AIDS. HEARD's work has consistently emphasised the need for and value of putting

ordination of civil society efforts with those of governments and the private sector.

Gender and structural inequalities In east and southern Africa the transmission of HIV has

HEARD's work has fallen largely within the MDG goals 3-6, although the organisation considers food insecurity in the context of HIV/AIDS (the 'HIV-hunger nexus'), consistent with goal 1. Since 2009 HEARD has begun, indirectly, to contribute to goal 2 through research on the challenges of HIV and schooling, and providing support for strategising and programming for HIV in schooling responses.

been predominantly through sexual contact. Unequal relationships between men and women and societal concepts of femininity and masculinity are critical in driving epidemics. Gender inequality and harmful gender norms must be addressed. Women and girls bear a disproportionate burden of responsibility for families affected by HIV. Gender norms and expectations also make men vulnerable to HIV, for example, through sexual

In the hyper-endemic region all progress is imperilled by the HIV epidemic and some indicators have shown

risk-taking and being less likely to seek medical care when needed.

marked deterioration. In 2004 the UN predicted that in the 53 countries with the worst epidemics, life expectancy in the period 2020-2025 would be 65.9 years instead of 70.8 and that in the seven countries with a prevalence of 20% or more it would be 41 years in 2020-2025 instead of 69.6. These dire outcomes can be prevented by putting people on treatment.

Countries are increasingly prioritising gender discourse in reducing the spread of HIV. More than 80% of national policies include a focus on women and children as part of their multi-sectoral strategy and response to HIV/AIDS. Since 2004 HEARD has addressed gender via a focus on vulnerabilities and structural inequalities, much of this through a body of work on care-giving. In 2009 HEARD

Most obviously impacted are the health MDGs of reducing child mortality, improving maternal health and combating

began developing research on specific aspects of gender inequalities.

HIV/AIDS. There is growing evidence that HIV infection pushes up maternal mortality. MDG 6 is about halting and

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Maintaining a focus on HIV prevention

down which affect the public purses and have

Prevention remains critical, and there has to be a re-focus

implications for health spend. International donor

on prevention to achieve sustained reductions in the rates

assistance in the region may be reduced.

of new infections. HIV prevention is under-prioritised in

HEARD, through the UNAIDS/World Bank

many national responses. The recent UNAIDS Report,

Economics Reference Group Secretariat, has

'Combination HIV Prevention Programmes: Engaging

been tracking this.

Stakeholders to Tailor and Combine Behavioural,

Increasing urbanisation. This plays a key role in

Structural and Biomedical Strategies to Reduce HIV

shaping HIV epidemics in the region. In 2009

Transmission', recognises the importance and complexity

urban areas accounted for 34% of the population

of prevention via three simple, fundamental points. First,

of the region. By 2020 it is predicted that the urban

not everyone in a country or district is at equal risk, subject

population will be 46% of the projected total of 952

to identical risks or likely to transmit a pathogen to others

million. The impacts on the nature of the HIV

and not everyone practices behaviours that might expose

epidemics are multiple: increasing informal urban

them. Second, within any given population not all people

areas; challenges of poor human security, food

have the same behaviours, needs, circumstances or

security, sanitation; and absence of services.

values. There is extensive individual variation in

HEARD is addressing urban epidemics.

responses to health advice and services. Third, peoples'

Climate change. This has been widely and

behaviour and health are shaped by, and are not

consistently acknowledged as applying an

independent of, the context in which they live.

additional and significant risk on top of existing stressors in the region. For example, climate

There is a growing emphasis on understanding the social

change shapes malaria incidence while at the

drivers of the epidemic (this is one of the core papers to

same time the incidence of clinical malaria and

come out of the aids2031 project) and is the subject of a

mortality increases with HIV-1 prevalence. The

(February 2010) DFID call for 'Expressions of Interest' for

linkages between climate change and risk of HIV

research. HEARD has and will continue to engage with

are seen in the literature on climate change and

these issues. Linked to this the organisation will apply

human health. HEARD pioneered thinking in this

these lessons to other diseases and chronic illnesses.

field and will continue to engage with it. -

southern Africa remain handicapped by these

Regional challenges

factors. One major success story is of cell phones

Since HEARD was established in 1998, the face and

connecting people across the sub-continent and

nature of the epidemic has changed. We have more and better data. We have a clearer idea of numbers and impacts. However, there are still multiple and varied

which can be used in AIDS response. -

human rights and a culture of rights in general â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

campaign 'know your epidemic know your response'.

most predominantly women's rights â&#x20AC;&#x201C; remains a weakness.

HEARD is located and works in the regions of Africa worst outlook, recognising the need for regionally focused research and oriented interventions.

Regional programming challenges in response to the above include: -

access to antiretroviral drugs makes the epidemic

The global economic crisis. This has brought a decline in economic growth and exports and a rise in unemployment. Government revenues are

Ensuring strong and multi-sectoral leadership, even when other priorities emerge, and improved

Serious challenges facing the region include: -

While substantial progress has been made in entrenching democracy in the region, respect for

epidemics across the region as reflected in the UNAIDS

affected by HIV. HEARD has and maintains a regional

Weak infrastructure and low investment. East and

seem less severe -

Implementing innovative, durable mechanisms to

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strategy

fund the HIV response -

Ensuring effective prevention interventions by focusing on populations and risk behaviours that are truly driving local epidemics

Putting in place systems for robust, adaptable treatment and care programmes

Mitigating the short- and long-term impact on households, communities and societies

Implementing responses grounded in good science and informed by human rights

HEARD has a record of conducting exploratory projects on significant issues and keeping ahead of the changing nature and effects of the epidemics.

strategy

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and research support, all backed up by a complement of

HEARD 2006-2010

professional support staff. In addition, HEARD employs field workers and post-graduate students as assistants on a temporary, project basis. HEARD operates regionally and internationally with about two-thirds of its commissioned work originating outside of

2.1 Background HEARD was established in January 1998 with one academic and two support staff to “...ensure that the University of Natal remains at the forefront of the study of health economics with especial reference to the economic, social and demographic implications of the HIV and AIDS epidemic”. (1998 Annual Report)

South Africa. HEARD has a well-connected network and collaborates extensively with scholars and researchers, governments, international agencies, NGOs and academic institutions. The organisation works with a range of institutional and individual partners spanning the globe. HEARD has the status of a UNAIDS Collaborating Centre, and is working with the SADC Secretariat and Parliamentary Forum and other African leadership. In addition, it has partnerships with universities in the region

In its early years HEARD was funded through a mix of

as part of its regional research collaborations.

resources including posts from government and the pharmaceutical industry, grants, consultancy work and

2.2 Mission and Objectives

profits from training.

Mission By 2003 it was clear that long-term capacity building and

To inspire health and development strategies that

core research required innovative funding. HEARD

improve the welfare of people in and beyond

sought support from SIDA, and introductions to other

Africa

donors. Through this help a 10 year strategic vision, a

corporate strategy and a five year business plan were

To influence global thinking and action on health and development.

developed. These were presented to the donor consortium in mid-July 2005. A joint financing arrangement (JFA), the overarching agreement between HEARD and the donors, was prepared and in October 2005 HEARD received pledges of financial aid from the British Department for International Development (DFID), Development Co-operation Ireland (DCI), Royal Netherlands Embassy (RNE), Swedish International

Aim To contribute to the production and utilisation of knowledge and evidence which support integrating health and HIV responses into sustainable human development in eastern and southern Africa.

Development Agency (SIDA) and UNAIDS. The JFA was signed in December 2005 and individual donor agreements were entered into in 2006. This was one of the first JFAs agreed by the 'like-minded' donor group and the first with an academic institution. It

Specific Objectives The specific objectives of the strategy are: -

(KNOWLEDGE)

concludes at the end of 2010 and a new JFA request is being made in support of the new strategy period of 2011 –

To produce new knowledge through research

To promote the utilisation of knowledge and evidence in support of health, HIV and

2015.

development responses HEARD currently has a staff complement of 35, made up of researchers, research assistants, associates, interns

(UTILISATION)

To enhance HIV and health research capacity (RESEARCH CAPACITY)

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strategy

To support leadership in integrating focused HIV responses into sustainable human

RESEARCH PROGRAMME

development. (LEADERSHIP SUPPORT)

2.3 Organisation and Governance

Basic/ Fundamental

HEARD is a research unit within the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa. It is planned

Evaluation/ Impact/ Intervention Studies

Scientific Community

that by 2012 HEARD will have undergone a change in

Intervention Development

Project Managers

Inform Policy

Decision makers/ Policy makers

Fundamental....................... Application............................Utilisation Focused

status from a research unit within the university to an autonomous research institute closely affiliated with the

Figure 2

university - the highest status for any research entity linked to the university. Such an institute will have its

The empirical focus of HEARD's research over the last

own legal status as a not-for-profit organisation.

five years has been aimed at answering three main questions:

HEARD is governed by a Governing Board (see Annex B for current Board composition). It is headed by an executive director and the day-to-day management of the staff is undertaken by the operations and research

1. What are the key driving forces behind the epidemics and their various impacts in Africa? 2. What constitutes effective and sustainable responses to the epidemics?

directors.

3. What does vulnerability mean?

A core of support and financial staff manages systems

HEARD orientated its research into coalescing streams

and operating procedures which are regularly audited

summarised as:

by development partners and other contracting parties.

1. Wellness, caregiving and vulnerability

The mid-term review confirmed in 2009 that HEARD is a

2. Prevention and social mobilisation

robust organisation with strong systems.

3. Country epidemics and system responses

HEARD's operations are based on principles and

Key Knowledge Development through Research: 2005 - 2010

values developed over the past 12 years.

Since its inception, HEARD has gained considerable knowledge and produced a great deal of research. The

These include: creative interventions through sound socio-

work carried out under the JFA was evaluated in 2009.

economic analysis and interdisciplinary

Details of HEARD's achievements over the past five

research;

years have been included in Annex B. HEARD's

transfer of skills;

significant areas of research and the progress made

sharing of knowledge and capacity building.

includes:

2.4 Research - Knowledge and Evidence for Focused Impact

Substantially researched areas -

Evidence-based successes in rolling back the epidemics

Dynamics of vulnerability in southern Africa

HEARD conducts a range of research, from pure to

Histories of response approaches in the region

applied, that informs policies and actions.

Examples and evidence from effective and sustainable responses

This is shown diagrammatically in Figure 2.

Sub-population dynamics of HIV transmission

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

Limitations of national responses in the region

Links between poverty and HIV

London, in 2004 and beyond on 'Getting

Where and why HIV is 'exceptional'

Research Into Policy and Practice' programme

Dynamics of public health service delivery and

Ongoing collaboration with the IFPRI to facilitate

stressors in SA

interaction and exchanges across the boundary

Dynamics of primary and secondary education

between science and politics

sector erosion via HIV -

Work with the Overseas Development Institute,

Participation since 2007 in a DFID programme

Dynamics of child welfare programme

that supports systemic combination of science

implementation in SA

and communications studies -

History of workplace programmes in SA

History of 'AIDS politics' in SA

this period which has led to an organisational

Child and family welfare - experiential and system

sense of both the possibilities as well as the very

levels.

real limits of the concept -

Mid learning curve research areas -

Dynamics of AIDS leadership in Africa

Examples of robust systems practice

Linking science and scientists with decision-

Experience in working with social marketing over

The cultivation of ties with the Athena Institute, Amsterdam, on the theory and practice of 'communicating science to society'

Alliance with researchers and NGOs in Europe, southern and east Africa.

making/decision-makers.

Research Interns Early learning curve research areas -

Every year HEARD accepts research interns from across

Default dependencies of society in Africa on NGO

the region and the globe who gain experience in research

and CBO interventions

in HIV-related programmes and projects. Interns gain

Key success ingredients in integrating

wide ranging understanding which increases the regional

communications and research

pool of research expertise as well as enhancing their

Changing burden of disease in southern Africa,

careers. HEARD established a formal internship

including chronic disease.

programme in 2008. That year there were five interns.

2.5 Research Capacity Building in Africa

three from other African countries. In addition, HEARD

Internal capacity building

encourages young researchers to visit for variable

While internal to HEARD, training of research staff

periods, and to work on HEARD projects. Since 2006

contributes to expertise and experience in the region and

HEARD has had seven such visitors, on average two a

is taken seriously for this reason as well as for internal

year. This cosmopolitan mix enhances internal debates,

productivity reason.

discussions and learning.

Internal initiatives include staff advocacy training since

PhD and MA Support

2004, provision of writing tutors, the institution of a formal

At PhD level 14 candidates from across the SADC region

mentoring system in 2008 and, in 2009, procedures for

have been placed in doctoral programmes at three

external peer review of proposals and draft scientific

universities. They are advancing their own academic

manuscripts.

careers and contributing original knowledge on HIV-

In 2009 HEARD had three interns from South Africa and

related topics. This is closely managed by HEARD. There

External capacity enhancement

is support for Masters students at various universities.

These initiatives include:

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

strategy

Young Researchers Initiative

issues include prevention; harmonisation of country

This initiative links emerging academics in health and HIV-

responses; women and gender; children in AIDS-affected

related fields in a scholarship network that supports

families; and the role of the private sector. Emerging

publication and career development. It does this by

issues include environmental change; urban and slum

building young researchers' capacity in the region through

HIV; drug resistant TB and HIV; regionality; disability; and

exposure to the latest research on HIV/AIDS. These

forced sterilisation of HIV positive women.

researchers are matched with experienced senior researchers with extensive experience in publishing, and mentored in the submission of a paper for publication in a

Key Achievements Over the Last Five Years in African Leadership Support Relations with SADC are a key success. HEARD began

peer reviewed journal.

work with both the SADC HIV and AIDS Unit (SADC) and the SADC Parliamentary Forum HIV and AIDS Unit

Partnerships

(SADC PF). With regard to the former, HEARD supported

HEARD has sought to work and establish long

the Unit's interactions with national AIDS co-ordinating

relationships with organisations in and beyond Africa, to

authorities and has been requested to initiate a secretariat

capacity build internally and support regional capacity

for a SADC HIV and Economics Technical Working Group.

building for research and responses.

Regarding SADC PF, HEARD supports parliamentary research on HIV in the region, evaluation of parliamentary

HEARD implemented a 'regional research partnership

performance on HIV and collaboration with civil society on

and (mutual) capacity building plan' in 2008 involving the

HIV prevention.

Muhimbili University of Allied and Health Sciences, Dar es Salaam; the Department of Economics, University of

Prevention has been an arena for further support to civil

Zambia; the University of Malawi; NERCHA in Swaziland

society. Here HEARD has co-operated with an informal

and Lesotho's National AIDS Council.

working group comprising UNAIDS and several civil society organisations to formulate and lead a movement

Technical (research) support relationships include

for prevention in southern Africa, based on the Millennium

NERCHA and Lesotho NAC; the KwaZulu-Natal

Development Goal of reducing new HIV infections by 50%

provincial Department of Social Development and the

by 2015. This movement, '50 by 15', has mobilised

Amajuba district government (including three municipal

parliaments and a range of NGOs.

AIDS councils); Oxfam (GB and Australia); the South African Business Coalition against HIV/AIDS

In disability, HEARD became the de facto organiser of the

(SABCOHA); and regional South African municipalities.

'Disability and HIV/AIDS Network' of researchers and NGOs in Africa. It is doing baseline research in order to

HEARD also participates in regional networks of

support disability and HIV policies. Similarly in regard to

international agencies such as the IDRC's RENEWAL

gender, consultations have resulted in regional research

network, SADC, UNICEF (the Regional Inter-Agency Task

on national commitments to gender equality and on

Team) as well as with South African bodies such as

gender programming.

SANAC.

2.6 African Leadership Taking Evidence to Leadership

2.7 Geographic Location HEARD is a regional organisation, based in KwaZuluNatal in South Africa at the regional epicentre of the HIV epidemics. HEARD operates with a focus on the SADC

HEARD supports regional leadership to improve health

and EAC regions. It has worked in South Africa, Tanzania

and address HIV through utilising evidence on current

and Zambia on health systems and health workers

issues and mobilising data on emerging issues. Current

salaries; in Swaziland on a range of projects and topics

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

(and is to sign a memorandum of understanding on research for NERCHA); in Lesotho on reviewing emergency concepts and AIDS and globalisation; in Botswana on reviewing the African Comprehensive AIDS Partnership; in Malawi on food security and AIDS and globalisation; in Mozambique and Zimbabwe on ART interruptions; in Madagascar on AIDS and globalisation; and has linked with academics across Africa (Nigeria, Morocco, Cameroon, Zambia, Ethiopia, Mozambique and Zimbabwe) to look at AIDS and the State. This is in addition to its work in South Africa.

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

strategy

realisation and measurement of value-add at regional

3 THE STRATEGY

levels. HEARD believes working in multiple countries does not necessarily make for regionality; rather this must be defined as adding value to regional efforts to attain regional goals supporting existing regional structures.

3.1 Specific Goals and Intended Strategic Impact Specific goals of the new strategy: Ÿ

Good quality scientific knowledge is critical to bring about

(KNOWLEDGE)

change. Progress is best made when good science is

To promote the utilisation of knowledge and

channelled to decision makers. In biomedicine, scientific

responses (UTILISATION) To enhance HIV and health research capacity (RESEARCH CAPACITY) Ÿ

Increasing knowledge and evidence

To produce new knowledge through research

evidence in support of HIV and development Ÿ

HEARD adds value through the following:

To support leadership in integrating focused HIV responses into sustainable development. (LEADERSHIP SUPPORT)

advances have led to millions of people accessing treatment and to the promotion of circumcision. In the socio/economic fields evidence such as that concerning multiple and concurrent partnerships highlighted key drivers of the epidemics. A great deal more needs to be understood or known. Existing solutions that make up part of combination prevention such as condom use and circumcision need to

HEARD's strategy expects building of knowledge and

be further observed and analysed. In addition, response

evidence, together with effective utilisation, will lead to

programmes need to be tracked and evaluated. Arguably

informed responses to HIV/AIDS and health, and will

more important is the need for key drivers to be better

enhance progress towards long-term, sustainable

understood. What long-standing, or recently adapted,

development. HEARD is influenced by the Getting

social conventions or economic necessities drive multiple

Research into Policy and Practice (GRIPP) initiatives and

and concurrent partnerships? In what ways do gender

the need for evidence to inform action. An increased use

relations in the region shape the status of women? How

of knowledge and evidence will support programmes

does this affect health and wellness? And over and over

aimed at achieving sustainable development goals

again, how do subtleties in these issues get programmed

including the Millennium Development Goals.

into effective sustainable responses?

3.2 Logical Framework for the Strategy

It is the collection of evidence and the generation and

A separate document detailing HEARD's proposed business plan for the period 2011 – 2015 may be requested from the executive director's office.

sharing of knowledge across differing countries and epidemics that allow for the construction of true regional lessons. HEARD is uniquely placed between the worlds of scholarship and programme practice to contribute meaningful knowledge and evidence to the region via its many regional partner structures.

3.3 Regional Value-Add realignment has become extremely important to all

Leadership mobilisation (via utilisation of knowledge and evidence)

stakeholders, including development agencies.

HIV is a disease of society and only societal changes in

This has led to growing interest in the conceptualisation,

attitudes, structures and ways of behaving will overcome

Regional value-add at a time of global resource

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

it. Leadership is key to rolling back HIV and achieving the

working with young researchers regionally and

Millennium Development Goals. National governments,

internationally. In 2009 a regional PhD programme and a

parliaments, civil society, the private sector and other

structured young researchers' initiative were launched.

leadership cadres have a responsibility to step out in front

These will be expanded to continue building regional

of their constituencies and to lead large-scale, sustainable

research capacity.

responses. HEARD has, and will, continue to play a key role in such mobilisations.

Supporting accelerated action on women, girls, gender equity and HIV

HEARD will mobilise and present knowledge and

HIV disproportionally affects women and girls; in

evidence to serve already established leadership

prevalence, in burden of disease, and often, in a primary

agendas with regard to health issues and will place

responsibility for the maintenance of family and social

emerging or difficult issues on the agendas of leaders.

cohesion in times of crisis. HEARD is moving swiftly in

HEARD works with key knowledge producers and users in

2010 to build on its existing gender programme and to

the region on strategies to develop sharing and learning

mobilise resources in support of the UNAIDS accelerated

opportunities.

framework in 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015. Particular foci for this will be: -

Continuing emphasis on disaggregating all data

Bringing global knowledge to the region and regional knowledge to the world

specifically at the reduction by 50% of new

As a knowledge producing and disseminating

infections among women by 2015

organisation HEARD has played a role in bringing global

by gender in order to support initiatives aimed

Protocol on the Rights of Women

knowledge to the region, sharing knowledge and learning across the region and taking regional learning into

Support for the implementation of the African

Support for linking HIV responses into long-term, sustainable programming for women.

international fora. The latter is of particular importance in giving voice to

Emerging and controversial issues

evidence from the most affected region, countries and

Action should be informed by evidence. In the medical

communities at an international level. HEARD has

field the growing importance of Cochrane Collaborations

performed this function with success in fora linked to

has led to better informed decisions. Social scientists are

UNAIDs, the World Bank, UNESCO, departments of

developing similar tools; the Campbell Collaborations are

foreign affairs of international cooperating partner

an example. However, some issues and evidence-

countries, and many development agencies.

supported response components in the region are problematic or not universally agreed upon. For example,

Capacity building

the issue of multiple and concurrent partnerships has

Most HIV research in the region takes place in South

become mired in debates on culture; the role of poverty

Africa and is characterised by north-south partnerships

still causes heated arguments; roles and responsibilities,

rather than by south-south or south-south-north

rights and duties, the law and rights regarding testing and

partnerships. This has the effect of extending research

notification are all controversial.

opportunities to those for whom they already exist rather than spreading opportunity to new knowledge producing

HEARD's role in these 'established' controversies is to

agencies. The south to north drain of human capacity in

produce or mobilise and then to ensure the wide uptake of

academia is well documented.

knowledge or evidence around an issue. Where an issue

Without additional research in Africa by Africans, patterns

is new, HEARD's role is that of investigator, researcher

of knowledge dominance will remain and, as importantly,

and then, based on evidence, of advocate.

responses by Africans on health and HIV issues will lag. HEARD has experience running research internships and

HEARD plays an important role in issues such as sex and

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

strategy

sexuality, disability, prevention in schooling and leadership. HEARD is taking part in the finalisation of the aids2031 work (see www.aids2031.org ) which is looking ahead at how the epidemic may develop over the next 20+ years. HEARD is engaged in 'horizon scanning' to identify emerging issues and will make strategic decisions regarding which of these to focus on. This will be based on how these issues unfold, who else is engaging with them and HEARD's core competencies and interests. For example, HEARD is currently looking at the issue of chronic diseases, linked to HIV but also as an emerging issue. Increasingly important will be questions of cost, cost benefit analysis and cost effectiveness relating to treatment options.

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

IMPLEMENTATION 4 OF THE

STRATEGY

HEARD will employ the following 12 modalities to realise the strategy.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

RESEARCH

Focused programmes and research activities Structured dissemination

Modalities

LEADERSHIP SUPPORT

UTILISATION

RESEARCH CAPACITY

Utilisation-driven research

PhD Programme

Support to SADC structures and programmes

Young Researchers Initiative Regional centres of research excellence

HIV leadership training programme

Capacity building for HEARD researchers

Evidence supporting regional priorities Evidence supporting emerging priorities

Regional needs response function

4.1 RESEARCH

Motivation and proposed foci of the Programmes are as follows:

4.1.1 Focused Programmes and Research Activities HEARD will engage in the following three research

Programme One: Prevention and Social Mobilisation

programmes in the period 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015: Prevention is the key to dealing with the epidemic. In the areas in which HEARD works, prevention remains a

Programme One Prevention and Social Mobilisation

priority. It will not, given existing human and financial resources, be possible to provide treatment to those already infected, let alone those newly infected. It is deeply troubling that in South Africa for example, it is estimated there were 510 000 new infections in 2008

Programme Two Health Systems and Health and Care Access

(Actuarial Society of South Africa, Press Release, 6th May 2008). Successful prevention programmes are key to rolling back HIV in the region and to better health for the people

Programme Three Health and HIV in an Urban Context

of Southern Africa. Even if new infections stop immediately, the costs of treatment will remain significant for decades to come. HEARD sees prevention issues as a priority.

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

strategy

While there are some biological and technical solutions

problems facing citizens and communities.

such as male circumcision, treating sexually transmitted

Access

infections, and condom promotion, the sought-after magic

The ability of the largest number of people to get the

bullets of vaccines and microbicides remain elusive, and

greatest number of health services is a key element in the

will certainly not be available during the period of this

development of any country. Access is a key indicator of

strategy.

national commitment to national development and many are beginning to describe access to health services as a

The language of social drivers of the epidemic and

key human right.

sociological plausibility of responses is gaining currency. It is known that reducing multiple and concurrent partnering,

HEARD will continue to research the strengthening of

delaying sexual debut for young women, reducing

health systems in the face of the HIV epidemics ravaging

intergenerational sexual encounters and addressing

the region. Key areas include:

sexual networks will all assist with successful prevention.

However the reasons for these behaviours - the social

The resourcing (economics) and management of health systems

drivers - need to be explored. This work has begun with the

Human resources for health systems

UNAIDS Modes of Transmission Studies that have been

Public and private sector synergies in health

carried out across Southern Africa; aids2031; and will be continued. The next stage will be to validate this work and

systems -

develop the interventions. HIV research must be integrally

Better mechanisms of support for community and home-based care.

linked into the social sciences and development studies where large questions about common futures need exploring. HEARD is well positioned to undertake this and will significantly expand research in this domain in order to contribute to this broad spectrum. It is also clear that this is where there is a regional comparative advantage, as lessons learnt are applied across borders.

Efficiency and effectiveness of systems In a context of no growth in funding, resources have to be stretched. This means getting the maximum return on HIV expenditure through an evidence basis for all responses; the shaping of responses to evidence on the real nature of epidemics; focusing on responses that have the greatest

Programme Two: Health Systems and Health and Care Access

possibility of success; as well as those that deliver maximum results at minimum cost. HEARD will engage in this area of research, and will additionally look at system capacity.

Integrating the exceptional HIV responses and systems should be aimed at simultaneously strengthening national health systems whilst health system strengthening should always result in improved delivery of HIV services and programmes. HIV is adversely affecting communities, as HEARD has seen in the Orphan Welfare Project in the Amajuba district and the Young Carers study, hence HEARD's emphasis on care access, not just health systems.

The Economics of HIV The table overleaf shows a macro picture of the financing of HIV in the region. Many of the issues to be addressed are clearly illustrated. A draft paper intended for submission to Heads of State in 2009 listed the priority actions as being: -

Integration of HIV plans within national development plans

The assertion that HIV/AIDS are exceptional phenomena

As a minimum protection of current HIV spending

does not equal the assertion that they require non-

Realisation of health spend

integrated responses. Health systems need to be considered, planned for, resourced and led as holistic systems addressing the panoply of health and wellness

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

the Abuja commitment to 15%

Increasing the systemic absorptive capacity of health systems

Integrating HIV strengthening and health systems strengthening

Significantly scaling up prevention responses

A focus on efficiency and effectiveness

Mobilising all sectors of society in response to HIV.

HEARD will use its convening power in the ERG and its support to the SADC emerging technical working group on HIV and Economics to support evidence and action on achieving these or any new economic/financing goals.

Regional HIV Financing

4.7

1.48

0.03

0.47

0.85

0.13

1.45

98%

Lesotho

5.2

1.67

0.1

1.03

0.49

0.05

1.57

94%

Swaziland

5.8

1.98

0.17

0.01

1.68

0.12

1.81

91%

Malawi

9.3

4.16

0.46

0.75

1.58

1.02

0.35

3.7

89%

Tanzania

4.3

2.41

0.4

0.59

0.77

0.59

0.06

2.01

83%

Uganda

7.3

1.45

0.28

0.07

0.22

0.66

0.22

1.17

81%

Zambia

5.4

2.79

0.59

0.08

1.15

0.74

0.23

2.2

79%

Zimbabwe

7.9

0.87

0.26

0.15

0.19

0.26

0.01

0.61

70%

Namibia

6.4

1.7

0.66

0.14

0.26

0.63

0.01

1.04

61%

South Africa

8.4

0.27

0.21

0.02

0.01

0.03

0.06

22%

Botswana

5.6

2.07

1.68

0.01

0.37

0.01

0.39

19%

Ethiopia

5.9

1.85

N/A

0.21

1.09

0.35

0.2

1.85

N/A

GFATM

US/ PEPFAR

Multilateral

Percentage of HIV/AIDS related expenditures from external (donor) sources

HIV/AIDS: domestic financing

Mozambique

OECD

Total HIV funding from external sources

HIV/AIDS-related expenditures

External (donor) funding for HIV programmes (percentage of per capita GDP)

Total health expenditures

Government funding for health and HIV (percentage of per capita GDP)

Source: Haacker, 2008

Programme Three: Health and HIV in an Urban Context

unemployment. The pressures of finding a job, making a new life in a foreign environment, and being exposed to more people (in the case of rural youth migrating to cities),

Half of the world's population lives in urban areas; nearly a

are all factors that increase the HIV risk for these

billion in urban slums, most in developing countries. In

vulnerable youth.

Sub-Saharan Africa 72 percent of the urban population resides in these slum settings. By 2030, it is predicted that

A recent UNAIDS Regional Support Team for east and

the number of people living in these informal settlements

southern Africa, analysis of the epidemiological data on

will double.

the urban HIV epidemic in the ESA region revealed that 25 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 28 percent of the region's HIV epidemics are situated

HIV prevalence is higher in urban slums than in rural

within 15 key cities. This highlights certain risks, need for

areas, especially amongst the youth. This is attributed to

data, and the need for sophisticated response planning

socio-economic factors such as poverty, illiteracy, political

including political alignment of national resources towards

and social repression, exploitation, crime and

cities and slums and for collaboration, especially with civil

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

strategy

society organisations. All of which is complicated by city

government approaches to slums and slum-dwellers,

Oxford University (UK) and South Africa's Department of Social Development

much of which comprises hoping or actively working to

University of Zambia

make them go away rather than servicing them.

University of Lesotho

Ottawa University, Canada

In 2009 HEARD played, and continues to play, a

Free University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands

significant role in urban HIV thinking in the region. It has

Oslo University, Norway

taken a leadership role with several other organisations

Carleton University, Canada

(including UNAIDS, UN HABITAT, SAT and SAfAIDS) in

Free State University, South Africa

taking forward thinking and work on responses.

Muhimbili University, Tanzania

University of Swaziland

For the coming strategy period HEARD will support interventions in urban and slum HIV responses with sound

International Agencies

research to produce evidence of impact. Working with

UNAIDS

relevant partners in the region, HEARD will identify new

UN HABITAT

research activities as well as enabling existing activities to

The World Bank

take account of urban epidemics. An example would be

UNFPA

work on youth sex and sexuality in urban contexts as a

UNICEF

hitherto under-researched context. This will build on the

IDRC

AIDS and Globalisation work on transactional sex. Governments and National Organisations

Research Collaborations

The Government of Swaziland

No single entity or country has the range of knowledge

South Africa's Department of Basic Education

production to contribute meaningfully by itself to regional

Department of Social Development

responses to health and HIV challenges. For as long as

Amajuba District

research has contributed to development and progress,

SACHOBA

collaboration has strengthened research.

Through the DFID supported Research Partner's Consortium (which will run to June 2011) HEARD is

HEARD has a record of collaborating with organisations in

working with the Health Research Unit in Ghana; RATN, a

South Africa, southern Africa and internationally. In 2010

regional training organisation; the NGO REACH in

HEARD is working with the following organisations on

Malawi; and the New York-based Population Council.

research and policy activities: In the strategy period 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015 HEARD will expand Regional Organisations

research collaborations to leverage expertise, experience

SADC HIV and AIDS Unit

and resources in order to produce new knowledge and

SADC Parliamentary Forum

evidence.

Southern African AIDS Trust (SAT)

IFPRI's RENEWAL Programme

4.1.2 Structured Dissemination

RATN

Audiences for HEARD's research findings and new knowledge and evidence range from scientific through

Universities -

managerial/implementers to policy makers. HEARD will

University of Cape Town, Department of

continue to disseminate all findings to relevant audiences

Economics, AIDS and Society Research Unit;

in suitable formats.

School of Environmental Science and Geography; and Democracy in Africa Research

In the period 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015 this will be taken further into the

Unit

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

realm of promoting utilisation of knowledge and evidence

'packaged' for specific audiences. This will include journal

(see research utilisation section overfleaf).

articles for the scientific community; issue or policy briefs and presentations for decision makers; workshops for

4.1.3 Capacity Building for HEARD Researchers

implementers; and a range of media reports.

Internal capacity building is aimed at achieving excellent

In addition to research being utilisation-focused, a team

quality in research and enhancing researcher skills in

led by the executive director of HEARD will maintain an

order to deepen the pool of HIV relevant research

overview of utilisation needs and the extent to which

expertise in southern Africa. HEARD will continue to

research and other activities are meeting these. It will seek

achieve research growth and development via:

to synthesise both HEARD's research across activities as

Exposure to a range of research activities,

well as findings produced elsewhere but useful to those

methodologies and contexts in southern Africa

seeking to turn knowledge into practice.

Research and research utilisation training against identified needs

Mentoring by internal and external research mentors.

4.3 RESEARCH CAPACITY The ability of the region to conduct research into pressing problems faced in health and HIV is key to overcoming these problems and achieving the MDGs.

4.2 UTILISATION 4.2.1 Utilisation-Driven Research

The following modalities make up this strategic objective.

HEARD has always focused on the utilisation of its findings by key players in Africa and globally. Over the last

4.3.1 PhD Programme

few years however, in the arenas of both academia and

HEARD will extend its current PhD programme in the

practice, attention has intensified over how to translate

period 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015. The key components of this

knowledge and evidence into impact.

programme will remain the intake, placement and support of PhD candidates from across the SADC and east African

Development partners rightly place emphasis on

region. Candidates are placed in suitable programmes

understanding and planning for the translation of research

related to health and/or HIV and are supported and

into practice. HEARD has developed cutting edge practice

developed academically.

in the region and will continue to develop current practices and to facilitate thinking and ways of operating.

In this new strategy period, potential scholarship candidates will be required to motivate as to how their

Utilisation and potential utilisation will drive both the

studies will support HEARD's strategic objectives as well

design of research and the packaging of research

as the objectives of their own or another relevant

findings. This will build on the existing communications

organisation operating in the region. In this way the PhD

strategy. HEARD will work with international and regional

studies will strengthen research output, enhance capacity

partners in planning for the focused impact of research.

in the region and support implementation programmes.

This has a contextual component in that research is driven

HEARD will continue to build a 'community of practice' and

by regional agendas and needs, as well as a

alumni network.

methodological component regarding research design.

4.3.2 Young Researchers Initiative HEARD will build on and continue to monitor its existing

The Young Researchers Initiative has two components:

successes in promoting research utilisation.

one aimed at work experience and the other at writing and publishing skills. The work experience component will see

Based on research design and the inputs of specified

HEARD continue to employ young researchers in one-

regional or global stakeholders, research findings will be

year internships. These are designed to expose Masters

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

strategy

level graduates to working in HIV and health-related

AIDS Unit in the refinement of this unit's research agenda;

research in the region.

in liaising between the unit and researchers in the region; and in the translation of research findings into practice

The writing component is aimed at assisting young

(see UTILISATION section above). HEARD will make use

researchers to get published. This programme will partner

of its unique place between academia and practice to fulfil

young researchers with experienced and internationally

this role.

published researchers in a mentorship leading to publication of a peer-reviewed article.

Parliamentary Support Programme In collaboration with the SADC Parliamentary Forum,

4.3.3 Regional Networks of Research Excellence

functions and their countries' obligations with regard to

HEARD is committed to enhancing institutional research

HIV. HEARD's role here is very specific to its placement

strength in the region. In this strategy period HEARD will

and strengths, ie, to support the parliaments in matters

partner with at least one other east or southern African

regarding the use of knowledge, evidence and information

research institution to ensure a symbiotic relationship with

for responding to HIV.

HEARD will support SADC parliaments to fulfil their

a twin centre of excellence in HIV research, thus extending a research network in HIV across the region.

4.4.2 HIV Leadership Training Programme

4.4 LEADERSHIP SUPPORT

In response to a regional need for managerial expertise in

In response to a range of requests for leadership support, HEARD launched this programme in 2009 and has since managed it in close collaboration with regional partners. Modalities include:

a range of HIV related skills and knowledge sets, HEARD will pilot a number of courses in 2010. In the period 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015 these will be transformed into a post-graduate diploma with the following objectives: 1. Increase the knowledge of managers on selected issues key to HIV responses

4.4.1 Support to SADC structures

2. Increase the skill of managers to apply new knowledge via relevant utilisation

SADC HIV and Economics Technical Working Group (TWG) HEARD has been requested by the SADC Secretariat via the SADC HIV and AIDS Unit to perform a secretariat function for a SADC HIV and Economics Technical Working Group (TWG) to: Enhance the quality of information and thinking on HIV and economics available to leadership in the SADC region.

managers.

4.4.3 Evidence Supporting Regional Priorities HEARD will continue to support already established regional priorities by mobilising and packaging evidence, networking with leaders, and supporting structures and systems. Issues of priority for the new strategy period will include:

These leaders may include heads of states, ministers of health and finance, parliamentary leadership, national AIDS coordinating bodies, SADC structures, the UNAIDS Regional Support Team for east and southern Africa and the World Bank.

Prevention Thinking Prevention is the key to achieving the Millennium Development Goal on HIV and to containing the epidemic in ways that allow for development priorities. Without success in prevention, neither treatment nor care and support will be sustainable. For several years HEARD has

Research Support HEARD has been requested to support the SADC HIV and

strategy

3. Increase the network of peer colleagues available to

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engaged in a number of responsive initiatives around

prevention. These will be expanded in 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015 to

consulting to a number of national and international

include:

bodies including the South African Business Coalition on

Supporting the integration of evidence into

HIV/AIDS (SABCOHA), SA Reserve Bank, SA Chamber

planning for prevention and continuing to address

of Mines, SA National Union of Mineworkers (NUM),

social drivers

Swedish Workplace HIV/AIDS Programme (SWHAP),

Supporting monitoring and evaluating of

AIDS Accountability International (AAI), Pan African

prevention interventions

Business Coalition (PABC), International Labour

Playing a leading role in the '50 by 15' movement

Organisation (ILO) and the Global Business Coalition

aimed at reducing new infections by 50% by 2015

(GBC). HEARD currently occupies a seat on the Private

Supporting the integration of HIV responses with

Sector Monitoring and Evaluation Committee of SANAC.

long-term maternal and child health programming -

Engaging in research and thinking or synthesising research to reach new insights into prevention

HEARD will continue to: -

possibilities in the region -

Addressing 'combination prevention'.

Provide training and consultation to large corporate and business organisations

Provide 'best practice' solutions around prevention and treatment

Gender Programme

Embodying best practice in combining research with activism and intervention, this programme will build on

findings result in practical outcomes -

beginnings made in 2009 and 2010 to: -

Engage with global thinking around research on the world of work and provide new insights into

Provide on-going review of the integration of

governance, prevention, treatment and

gender programming into regional and national

community engagement possibilities -

Seek private-public partnership opportunities

prevention planning, resourcing, legislation and

which meet the goal of national strategic plans

law reform

within the region.

Produce new knowledge and synthesise existing a particular focus on urban youth

4.4.4 Evidence Supporting Emerging Priorities

Engage with a wide range of stakeholders to

HEARD will work with evidence produced in its research

move evidence into practice.

programmes and gathered from partners and

knowledge on sex and sexuality in the region with -

programmes involving prevention and treatment

of HIV's most intransigent structural drivers

responses such as NACA programming,

Provide an outlet for advocating for sustainable business practices around HIV workplace

Provide evidence with regard to the status of women in the region that allows for action on one

Engage with stakeholders to ensure that research

collaborators to put new and emerging issues on the HIV and Education Programme

agendas of regional leaders. Issues already emerging

This programme builds on HEARD's work with South

and requiring further work in the new strategy period

Africa's Department of Basic Education in strategising for

include:

and implementing new approaches to HIV programming in schools. This project provides a platform to which to

Urban and Slums HIV Response Programme

attach support across the regions and with UNESCO and

The origins of this programme are described in the

other agencies working to roll back HIV among school-

motivation for taking up urban HIV and health issues as a

going populations.

key focus of research in the new strategy period.

Private Sector Programme

HEARD's innovation and leadership role on this topic is

HEARD has a 10 year track record of research with, for

recognised and this will continue in the form of intervention

and of the private sector, providing key strategic

programming as follows:

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strategy

City research and research support

Engage with a wide range of regional

In 2009 and 2010 the South African city of Durban, in

stakeholders in order to move evidence into

the heart of the regional epidemics, was used as a

practice.

case study in both urban and slum epidemics. This study is planned to continue across the 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2015

HIV and Health Dialogue Series

period in order to provide a longitudinal study of the

HEARD will maintain a dialogue series where research

course of an urban epidemic and of the many efforts to

is presented to key regional stakeholders to inform

respond to it. The lessons learned are intended for

both policy and further research. Issues already on the

researchers and practitioners.

agenda for the period 2011-2015 include:

In addition, this research will link with long established research in east Africa in order to foster twin centres of

Urban and slum HIV

urban research and collaboration.

Transport, HIV and development

Faith-based prevention mobilisation

Mobilisation of leaders towards the '50 by 15' goal.

Knowledge management In 2010 HEARD will work with regional researchers to put together a literature review of urban and slum HIV

A part of the dialogue series will be a Visiting Fellow's

research in the region. This work of sharing knowledge

programme which will bring a range of top experts from

and collaborating to produce new knowledge and

within the region and from outside to the region to share

evidence will continue into the new strategy period.

their expertise with scientists and practitioners. This is part of the commitment to south-south-north collaboration.

Leadership mobilisation and support HEARD has worked with a number of players in the region including UNAIDS, UN HABITAT and other regional and international agencies to mobilise for action on urban and slum HIV. In the new strategy period it is planned that this work will focus on the largest key cities in the region and will seek to mobilise city, provincial and national players to better respond to urban epidemics. HEARD will continue to support regional and global agencies.

HEARD will continue to respond to requests from within the region and globally to provide evidence for, and support to HIV and health responses. This consists of taking on contract work in order to create new knowledge or supporting responses that plausibly contribute to integrating HIV responses into sustainable development. Activities undertaken in this function may not be directly

Disability Programme Combining research with interventions, this programme will also build on work begun in 2009 and 2010. It will strive to: -

4.5 REGIONAL NEEDS RESPONSE FUNCTION

Strengthen networks of HIV and disability

connected to HEARD's strategic objectives, but all will have been through review. In addition to providing a service to the region, this function will supplement resources.

practitioners and scholars across Africa -

Provide an on-going review of the integration of disability programming into a variety of regional and national responses such as NACA programming, prevention planning, resourcing, legislation and law reform

Produce new knowledge and synthesise existing knowledge on the cyclical inter-connections between disability and HIV

strategy

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5 RISK AND

RISK MANAGEMENT Key Strategic Risk

Risk Management Tactic

Non-utilisation of knowledge

and evidence by leaders

Working via established regional and international bodies linked to leaders such as SADC, SADC PF, UNAIDS, the World Bank and donor organisations

Funding

Joint financial arrangement (JFA) aligned to a medium-term strategic plan

Overlapping strategy periods to avoid 'brickwall' funding dates

Competitive grants written and won

Growing an income stream by providing relevant consultancies

Shift in international focus and

development in Africa

support to other key global agendas Attracting, recruiting and retaining

Linking HIV responses to MDGs and holistic

Recruitment of new internationally reputable and credible staff

experienced senior staff Ÿ

Providing opportunities, staff development and an atmosphere conducive to recruiting and retaining staff

Financial oversight and accountability,

An internationally credible Governing Board

and good governance

Monitored financial operating procedures

Regular audits

Increased participation in co-ordinating

Duplication of efforts in the region

mechanisms and bodies at regional and global levels

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strategy

5 INDICATIVE BUDGET The indicative budget on this page was developed against implementation modalities and their support functions. A more detailed budget with budget justifications can be requested from HEARD.

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

TOTAL

11,000,000 14,000,000 14,000,000

13,000,000

7,000,000

59,000,000

Research Knowledge and Evidence

Research Utilisation

1,500,000

1,600,000

1,700,000

1,909,000

2,000,000

8,709,000

Capacity Building African Leadership

3,400,000

3,700,000

4,200,000

1,700,000

1,500,000

14,500,000

Support HEARD

4,900,000

4,950,000

4,945,000

5,000,000

5,200,000

24,995,000

Organisation University

2,449,000

2,518,000

4,422,800

3,039,080

3,342,988

15,771,868

13,527,347*

Overhead Charges

2,557,390*

2,944,480* 3,219,460*

2,711,290*

2,094,727*

TOTALS

25,806,390 29,712,480 32,487,260

27,359,370

21,137,715 136,503,215

* to be negotiated

strategy

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ANNEX A

HEARD Board Composition

HEARD Governing B o a r d

Dr Anita Sandstrรถm, Chairperson Executive Director, Southern African AIDS Trust

Professor Nelson Ijumba Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Dr Janet Love National Director, Legal Resources Centre

Dr Mbulawa Mugabe Acting Regional Director, UNAIDS

Professor Helen Rees Executive Director: Reproductive Health and HIV Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand

Professor Lesley Stainbank Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies, University of KwaZulu-Natal

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strategy

HEARD calculates it is mid-level on the learning curve with

ANNEX B

Key Research Achievements

regard to issues such as the dynamics of poor AIDS leadership in Africa; 'good' systems practice; and linking science and scientists with decision-making/decision makers. It is at an early point on the learning curve with regard to issues such as the dependence of society in Africa on NGO and CBO interventions; opportunities for AIDS leadership; and the changing burden of disease in southern Africa.

HEARD conducts and applies research. The model has been one of cumulative knowledge generation via related

In the early 2000s HEARD acquired expertise in Impact

projects. New projects may be elaborations of preceding

Assessments, Scenario Development and Econometric

projects or stem from questions raised by results of

Analysis. It has developed skills in system and

previous projects. Project selection is guided by

organisational evaluation, organisational level support,

considering the scope for a particular project in one field to

longitudinal studies, trans-disciplinary studies and

be useful to research in another. A project on child welfare

advocacy-linked research. It is acquiring competency in

may complement one on food insecurity; one that

social marketing research and intervention evaluations.

contributes to answering one core question can also feed information to others.

Policy influence HEARD's approach to influencing policy making and

Extent of research work

decision-makers has been to get itself into positions to be

HEARD has accumulated a large body of work; 141

influential, via its collaborative research ethos, and exert

research projects conducted since 1998 of which 54 were

influence on the basis of diverse skills. HEARD

between 2006 and 2009. Since 2006 HEARD has

incorporates advocacy procedures and goals in projects;

conducted 21 projects on vulnerability (42 since 1998), 11

multi-skills staff; packages research findings in different

on drivers of the pandemic (35 since 1998) and 31 on

ways and disseminates via different media.

sustainable responses (92 since 1998). Positioning

Knowledge creation

HEARD has established and maintains networks and

This body of work has generated knowledge that HEARD

partnerships. HEARD conducted 13 cross-country

has been able to write up and disseminate via different

projects between 2006 and end of 2009. It participates in

media, on a wide range of issues. This may be categorised in terms of a founding knowledge base established prior to 2005/6, 'additional' areas since 2006 and 'emerging' areas since 2008/9. The 'additional' and 'emerging' categories are devices used to reflect HEARD's approach to generating knowledge cumulatively and the expansion of actual issues addressed as the demands on research in the region change. To illustrate, 'what we know' includes: the dynamics (general, specific and cross-cutting) of vulnerability in Southern Africa; the history of response approaches; sub-population dynamics of HIV transmission; why poverty and HIV are linked and how; and where and why HIV is 'exceptional'.

strategy

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regional research networks such as IFPRI's RENEWAL programme, the Southern African Vulnerability Initiative and the newly formed Mental Health and HIV/AIDS in Africa Alliance. It established two regional networks; one, on the basis of a 'regional research partnership and (mutual) research capacity building plan', with the Muhimbili University of Allied and Health Sciences, Dar es Salaam and the Universities of Malawi and Zambia; the other, a network of over 100 NGOs and researchers in the field of disability. It engages with regional agencies such as the UNICEF-aligned Regional Inter-Agency Task team, the Regional AIDS Training Network, the Southern African AIDS Trust, the IDRC's eco-health initiative and Oxfam (GB and Australia). It has a longstanding research support

relationship with Swaziland's NERCHA and links with

Utilisation of research

Lesotho's and South Africa's National AIDS Councils and

HEARD's projects have scientific and practical aims:

the ACHAP in Botswana and SADC. In South Africa, it has

incorporate advocacy components and a range of 'target'

a close relationship with the South African Business

audiences.

Coalition against HIV/AIDS, a formal partnership with the

methodology as an applied research organisation seeking

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development (as

to influence the nature and form of responses to HIV/AIDS

well as interactions at national and local government

in Africa. A focus has been on improving communications

levels) and a longstanding engagement on child welfare

strategy. By 2009 it had a strategy that was based on

with Amajuba district government and three municipalities

integration of 'communications' and research. This

HEARD adopted an integrated research

including their AIDS councils. It has established a network

resulted from experience with advocacy, researchers'

with youth organisations in three provinces.

experimentation with different media to reach different audiences in various projects, and engagement with

Influence

organisations involved in research to find ways of getting

Influencing policy and decision-makers has taken various

research into policy and practice. HEARD's strategy for

forms since 2006. There has been continuous influence of

2011-2015 includes further elaboration of its 'utilisation of

Swaziland's NERCHA via the longstanding technical

research' agenda and, in particular, an emphasis on

support provided. There is indirect influence through

cultivating leadership in Africa to improve HIV/AIDS

membership of HEARD on task teams of various agencies

interventions.

such as those of SANAC. There has been direct influence as a result of the Swaziland 'emergencies' project: a World

See logic table overleaf.

Bank team visiting the country to re-evaluate its engagement; and the international Red Cross reviewing its strategy. Oxfam GB and Oxfam Australia regularly use HEARD to conduct research to inform their strategic reviews of their programmes in southern Africa. Likewise, these organisations and World Vision have used the multistressor vulnerability model developed by IFPRI and

Annual Reports

HEARD for strategic reviews. HEARD conducted research in Botswana to assist the ACHAP to review that country's AIDS programme.

To download HEARD's Annual Reports visit http://www.heard.org.za/heard-resources/annual-report

In South Africa, HEARD's research work on private sector initiatives is publicised through the SABCOHA's network and HEARD reviews and conducts research necessary to advocate for policy change. Most recently HEARD conducted a review of the HIV labour code in relation to workplace programmes and South Africa's national AIDS strategic plan. The longitudinal project on child welfare in Amajuba district in KwaZulu-Natal led to the inclusion of a referral mechanism (access for children to various government services) in the district integrated development plan and experimental implementation by HEARD of the referral mechanism in three wards (with one control ward).

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strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

What are the key driving forces behind the pandemic and its various impacts in Africa? 2. What constitutes effective and sustainable responses to the pandemic? 3. What does vulnerability mean?

Answer three big questions

To do sound applied research that serves the design of effective strategies, policies and interventions

To stimulate and support informed interventions that are based on sound research

Purpose

To influence global thinking and action on health and development

To inspire health and development strategies that improve the welfare of people in and beyond Africa;

Mission

AIMS

BUILD THE FACTORS ABOVE INTO THE CORPORATE STRATEGY AND BUSINESS PLAN

BE CREATIVE Ÿ Position HEARD to be innovative and to take risks Ÿ Use and create opportunities

DEFINE HEARD'S ROLE Ÿ Define HEARD as 'applied' research organisation Ÿ Position HEARD as 'values-based' and 'learning' organisation Ÿ Elaborate HEARD's 'regional' orientation

TAKE INTO ACCOUNT HEARD'S CONDITION AND ORIENTATION BY END 2005

STRATEGY

Elaborate regional outlook and positioning

Establish cross-country activities and projects (ref: Business Plan; project evaluation forms)

Establish educational programmes (refs: Bus. Plan; MA and PhD prog.; young researcher initiative reports; internal: mentoring and training portfolio)

Establish and develop communications and marketing portfolio (ref: communications portfolio docs 2007-2009)

Triangle of work: 'research'; 'systems support'; knowledge advancement and education' (ref: HEARD Annual Reports)

Define multi-functional agenda

1998-2009: 29 cross-country projects/ activities 2006-2009: 13 cross-country projects/ activities eg. RRPCB; Disability and HIV; SAVI ; Contacts Database

External: Economics MA support project; PHD programme; young researcher initiative Internal: PhD support; Advocacy skilling; mentoring mechanisms

HEARD branding Reformulated website; new IT systems; evolving communications strategy and plans

1998-2009: Approximately 141 'projects'; 80 collaborative projects; 75 system support projects; 11 education projects 2006-2009: Approximately 54 projects/activities; 41 collaborative projects; 26 systems support projects; 3 education projects

See below

Make overt reference to, and reflect established 'Aims' (pre-2006) in Corporate Strategy and Business Plan 1. Apply research to improve holistic and systemic ways of understanding the longterm impacts of the pandemic 2. Strengthen the field of health economics and the practice of multi-disciplinary research throughout Africa 3. Enhance the capacity of leaders in Africa 4. Develop the organisational capacity of HEARD to achieve these objectives in a sustainable manner

Build methodological framework into corporate strategy and business plan

OUTCOMES UNAIDS Collaborating Centre; UNFPA accreditation; participation in SIDA strategic meetings; DFID advisory role; relationships with donor country research organisations [eg. Karolinksa; Oslo and Vrije Universities; LHSTM; LSTM; Oxford; LSE

ACTIONS Establish close ties with donors as partners (ref: Communications strategies 2008;2009)

PLAN Devise the business plan with donors

Research Logic Table

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strategy

The multiple demands for socio-economic HIV/AIDS research Ÿ Research competence and foci based on research agenda 2002-2004 Ÿ HEARD's 'positioning' of itself (2004)

HEARD's condition and orientation by end 2005

1. Apply research to improve holistic and systemic ways of understanding the longterm impacts of the pandemic 2. Strengthen the field of health economics and the practice of multi-disciplinary research throughout Africa (RESEARCH CAPACITY) 3. Enhance the capacity of leaders in Africa 4. Develop the organisational capacity of HEARD to achieve these objectives in a sustainable manner

Strategic Objectives (2006-2008/20092010)

AIMS

STRATEGY

1998-2009: 16 CW; 8 in FS; 46 in HS 2006-2009: 11 CW; 7 FS; 12 HS;

Link foci to broader foci: vulnerability, epidemic drivers, responses

Accommodate range of projects (fundamental to applied; technical support to consultancies)

Longitudinal, incremental, collaborative, inter-disciplinary/trans-disciplinary, iterative value-based; reflexive, etc. logic in project designs

Incorporate logic of integration into project designs Promote collaborative ethos Develop capacity on the basis of accumulated knowledge over life

1998-2009: 13 longitudinal (includes nested projects [eg. Swazi; Youth]) 2006-2009: 11 lngtnl. projects/accts.

See spectrum of activities and projects

1998-2009: 42 projects in vulnerability; 35 projects in drivers; 92 projects in responses 2006-2009: 21 vulnerability II drivers; 31 responses

1998-2009: Approximately 62 projects with scientific and practical aims; 34 projects with scientific aims only; 32 projects with practical aims only 2006-2009: 27 projects with scientific and practical aims; 15 scientific aims only; 4 practical aims only

Incorporate scientific and practical aims in project proposals (multi-purpose)

Establish multipurpose projects/activities and create multiple links between them to facilitate holistic perspective Link projects around foci of child and welfare, food security, health systems

One programme (spectrum of activities; ref: diagram)

1,700 eg. Renewal; RIATT; UNAIDS; SADC; RATN; Oxfam (Australia and UK); SAT; IDRC economic health

OUTCOMES

Locate projects (selection, design and implementation) within two 'programmes’

Engage with regional agencies (refs: JFA agreement; HEARD Annual Reports; network diagram)

Create regional networks (ref: Business Plan; Directors'trip reports; network diagram)

ACTIONS

Research Organisation Establish the two 'programmes’

PLAN

strategy

2 0 11 - 2 0 1 5

Evolution of mentoring 2004/5: Academic mentors 2006: 'Mentoring mechanism' (social, professional, personal); peer support (manuscript club; PhD club) 2008: Writing mentors; 'learning organisation'; mentoring 2009:'Learning organisation'; mentoring; institutional mentoring; external quality assurance (pre- and postresearch phases)

General methodology of integration (2003/4) (including adaptive management) 타 HEARD's institutional agenda 2004-2006 (including move to 'centre'; mission values) 타 The broader strategic role envisioned by SIDA support (2004-2006) 타 The international status of HEARD's director

타

AIMS

STRATEGY

Promote sharing of information and mutual dependence

Establish partnerships

Reflect values in communications and documentation of all activities and projects

Eg. HEARD logo; Oxfam rel; Renwal rel; RRPCB; gender think tank; authorship guidelines; HEARD annual reports RenewalIFPRI; KZN Social Development; SABCOHA; Amajuba Local Government; UNAIDS; JFA(Sida, RNE, Irish Aid, UNAIDS); ERG (UNAIDS and WB); SAVI; RRPCB

Pastel innovation

Ref: organogram (eg. events; para-legal; ips)

2007/8: role profiles; global grading system; 2009: KPAs

Four writing mentors (since 2008) public speaking training (annually since 2003)

Advocacy skills development training (2004, 2006, 2007, 2008)

Develop own administration system (policies and procedures)

Re-structure HEARD as 'NGO' (ie. move away from status as research unit within an academic department)

Develop own financial management system

Institutional mentoring programme; writing mentoring programme; 'learning organisation' mentoring (see base of table)

1998-2009: 20 exploratory projects. 2006-2009: 10 exploratory projects. Innovation eg. communications strategy; PHD programme young researchers; use of different media for advocacy in several projects. 9 projects/activities ahead of mainstream research [ACHWRP; HS; WVUP; community mobilisation; young caregiver; RRPCB; disability; leadership dialogues; SAT cities]

1998-2009: 30 projects overt integrated methodological constructs 2006-2009: 15 overt integrated methodological constructs 1998-2009: 36 build on previous projects/activities 2006-2009: 11 build on previous projects/activities

OUTCOMES

Develop own post structure; job definitions [e.g. role profiles; remuneration scales] distinct from UKZN

Implement skills development (advocacy, writing; public speaking) in addition to technical skills training

Implement staff mentoring in addition to training

Conduct exploratory studies and activities

Conduct prospective and retrospective studies

Build phases into project design

ACTIONS

Institutional structure Develop multi-skilling agenda

Support experimental initiatives (ie. look for opportunities to be creative and innovative)

Span of HEARD (1998-2010) to answer the three 'big' questions

PLAN

NOTES

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strategy

strategy Knowledge and Evidence for Impact Integrating HIV Responses with Human Development

University of KwaZulu-Natal Westville Campus, J Block, Level 4, University Rd, Durban, 4041, South Africa

Private Bag X54001, Durban 4000 South Africa

tel +27 (0)31 260 2592 fax +27 (0)31 260 2587 heard@ukzn.ac.za www.heard.org.za

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