The evolving research ecosystem is increasingly moving toward a paradigm that values inclusivity, trust, and societal relevance. Community and Public Engagement (CPE), a core component of the science-policy-society interface offers a powerful opportunity to achieve this paradigm shift. Genuine engagement functions as a driver of scientific excellence, rather than a mere ethical obligation or procedural requirement, yet integrating systemic CPE into standard research operations faces systemic structural barriers. The challenge is complex, but central to this is how research is funded.
This webinar explores the structural evidence surrounding current funding models and how these can either inadvertently entrench inequities or be redesigned to support sustainable engagement.
Our panellists are drawn from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), UK, the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), South Africa, and Wellcome Trust, UK.