The Vice-Chancellor of the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies, also known as the Open University, Prof. David Millar, has advocated for research assistants to support legislators' research to inform policy decisions.

He made the statement at the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) on the sidelines of a three-day workshop on writing policy and advocacy briefs.

In an interview, Prof. Millar remarked that governments are more likely to respond to policies that are well-written, accessible, and convincing.

He also advocated for legislators to be provided with research assistants to enhance their capacity to develop informed policies.

"All MPs should have research assistants who conduct research to inform policy decisions. This ensures that policies are well-founded and effectively address the needs of society," Prof. Millar stated.

The workshop, aimed at equipping staff and postgraduate students with the skills to craft effective briefs for influencing stakeholders, took place from June 19 to 21, 2024, at the university's auditorium.

The workshop was facilitated by Prof. David Millar, who led participants through sessions on policy briefs and policy advocacy.

The event featured collaborative sessions where participants worked in groups on assignments and presentations organized by the university's Directorate of Research.

The opening ceremony was graced by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Osumanu Issaka Kanton, who emphasized the importance of making research outputs accessible to stakeholders for informed decision-making.

He noted that research findings should be communicated in clear and simple language to facilitate development.

Prof. Frederick Dayour, Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovation, and Consultancy, highlighted in an interview that the university's mandate is focused on applied research to solve societal problems.

He stressed the need for innovative strategies and mediums to disseminate research findings effectively to stakeholders.

"The mandate of the university is to conduct applied research aimed at solving basic problems in society. We need to find strategies and mediums through which we can share our research findings in a way that stakeholders can understand," Prof. Dayour said.

He added that the university must take proactive steps to communicate its research and ideas in a manner that is understandable, implementable, and usable.

The workshop concluded successfully, with participants gaining valuable insights and skills for writing impactful policy and advocacy briefs.