Prof Opio Okaka (3rd from Right) with members of the research team. A Lira University photo.
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Dr Omech Bernard of Lira University noted that the research initiative is the basis of new knowledge and development of Universities.
Lira – November 5, 2022: The members of the Lira University Research Ethics Committee (LUREC) are skilful, professionals and people with proven integrity, says the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Assoc. Prof. Okaka Opio Dokotum.
Okaka adds they are expected to perform to the expectations of the researchers. He made the remarks at a ceremony to launch LUREC at the University on Thursday, November 3, 2022.
Prof Okaka said the 14-member committee was well selected and trained by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology on the skills and knowledge of enhancing standards of doing research.
He encouraged staff, students and other stakeholders to take advantage of the new development and be more serious about research activities as the University now has its own REC.
Also, the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) has accredited the Lira University Research Ethics Committee (LUREC) after meeting the necessary national requirements to function as a Research Ethics Committee for the protection of the rights and welfare of human research participants in Uganda.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor advised LUREC to be independent and observe transparency and professionalism while handling research issues.
“You need to budget your available time well to handle the seemingly overwhelming work on research. It is not easy as you have your other duties to perform besides the LUREC activities.”
He emphasized that Research should be conducted in a manner that does not violate the dignity, rights and welfare of human research participants. “Let’s put REC to use, our new born baby,” he encouraged the research community.
According to him, the LUREC Team will ensure research ethics are followed in the process of producing quality research acceptable globally.
The Director of Postgraduate Studies, Dr Omech Bernard noted that the research initiative is the basis of new knowledge and development of Universities, adding that LUREC will be overwhelmed with research vetting exercises against deadlines as graduate and undergraduate students are some of the expected clients.
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Dr Odur Andrew, the chairperson of LUREC, said the committee will ensure there is transparency, a conducive atmosphere for interactions with researchers, and guide and protect the researchers and the community.
He added that universities are centres and propagators of new knowledge underscoring the importance of research ethics in quality assurance.
LUREC members include the following; Dr Ongom Andrew (chairperson). Dr Pancras Odongo, Dr Adupa Drake, Prof. JB Okullo, Dr Benson Okello, Dr Judith Abal, Emily Akullu (Vice Chairperson).
Others are Counsel Shamin Amolo, Anne Ruth Akello, Christine Acio, Flavia Apio, Morris Chris Ongom and Dr Laury Lawrence Ocen.
