Empowering refugee researchers for policy change
Challenge
Research on refugees in Uganda is often disconnected from refugee participation and lived realities, sidelining refugees as passive subjects. Under-resourced refugee-led initiatives and interrupted academic careers create gaps in research, advocacy, and methodology, limiting meaningful participation and evidence-driven policy influence.
Solution
NORRU is establishing research hubs across refugee settlements, empowering people with lived experience of displacement to lead research that influences public policy and humanitarian action. The project embeds action research principles, fostering continuous learning and adaptation. A final dissemination conference will share findings with NGOs, UNHCR, universities, and government agencies.
Impact
Twenty-five refugee researchers across five hubs gain research design, data collection, and analysis skills, enabling them to independently lead ethical, community-based research initiatives. Ten training modules will be developed and delivered, while one cross-settlement study will be completed.