ASSESSMENT OF ACCESS TO RESEARCH FUNDS BY RADIOGRAPHY LECTURERS IN NIGERIA
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Abstract
Background: The irregular nature of research funds in Nigerian universities has been a persistent concern. Multiple challenges are associated with accessing research funds which greatly affects the pursuit of research endeavours.
Objective: This study aimed at assessing the challenges faced by radiography lecturers in accessing research funds in some selected universities in Nigeria.
Method: The study was a cross-sectional survey conducted among radiography lecturers in some selected universities in Nigeria, from November 2023 to December 2023. A structured questionnaire was distributed electronically to all participants who consented to take part in the study. The questionnaire was validated using content
validity. The Cronbach alpha reliability coefficient was found to be 0.83. Participants’ Demographic Information, Sources of research funding, Benefits from research grants, Obstacles in accessing research grants, Amount of research funds were obtained. The coded responses were stored, and descriptive statistics was employed to analyse the data
using SPSS statistical software version 22.
Results: Out of the (100%, n = 30) distributed questionnaires, (70%, n = 21) were returned, among which (76%, n = 16) males and (19%, n = 4) females. The most
commonly cited combination of challenge is "Bureaucratic processes and administrative barriers," (23.6%, n = 9). Followed by "Limited research infrastructure and resources" (21.2%, n = 8). "Limited awareness of available funding resources" is cited by (15.7%, n = 6). Additionally, (13.2%, n = 5), cited "Insufficient grant writing skills or
knowledge". Both "Inadequate support from university administration" and "Lack of collaboration opportunities with external partners" are cited by (10.6%, n = 4) each. The least frequently mentioned challenge is "Intense competition from other disciplines or departments," cited by (5.2%, n = 2). Majority of the participants (66.6%, n = 14) have never receive any research fund.
Conclusion: It is even more pronounced that research funds are scarcely available and grossly inaccessible in Nigeria due to multiple bureaucratic and administrative barriers. Nonetheless, a small percentage of participants have benefited from the research grants and recognized their positive impact.
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