Knowledge Translation in the Global South: Bridging Different Ways of Knowing for Equitable Development

This study explores knowledge translation (KT) in the global South and provides recommendations for funders to support more effective structures and strategies for the use of research for equitable development.

The research looked at the KT strategies, practices and theories researchers and research intermediaries use in the global South, and the challenges they experience, and identifies the types of support required from research funders.

The mixed methods design incorporated facilitated learning sessions, a review of the literature, case study selection and analysis, and semi-structured interviews. The research finds that KT is too narrowly defined and a holistic approach is needed support it in the global South.

Recommendations for funders include:

• creating challenge funds
• taking a programme-level approach to supporting KT
• embracing complexity.

Related resources

1. Executive Summary
2. Literature review (IDS Working Paper)
3. Research report (OTT)

This report is available in English, French and Spanish.