STDCs need to be strengthened to independently plan and execute need-based operational/ implementation research (OR). This would include:
They need to conduct necessary capacity building sessions for interested program staff to design research studies and proposals.
Setup and host a formal Institutional Ethics Committee to review and approve any research proposals. They may also leverage any existing IEC at a co-located institution.
Identifying research priorities for the state
Applying for and securing funds for executing research studies
Execute studies, disseminate results and advocate for policy/ operational changes in the state and the country.
STDCs may document best practices in the state, publish and disseminate them for learnings and necessary programmatic uptake.
