Determinants of International Research Collaboration in Uganda: Case Study Research Registered at Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (2015-2019)

Abstract

International Research Collaboration (IRC) has been on the rise globally. However, comprehensive analysis of the drivers of IRC in many developing countries remains lacking. This study applies a binary logistic model to examine the determinants of IRC in Uganda while a beta regression was used for the propensity to collaborate. Using retrospective data from the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology, results indicate that IRC in Uganda is determined by gender, region where researcher attained their highest qualification, research sponsor, research Field, Research type and research budget. The study shows that developing countries need to develop robust research systems to be “effective partners” in IRC. More gender-inclusive research policies are critical and IRC should be framed around national priorities and intentionally pursued within university research systems.