Research and Innovation
Generating evidence, learning, and applied innovation to inform national nutrition decisions.
Programme Introduction
The Research & Innovation programme connects policy questions, implementation needs, and field learning to shape an applied research agenda. CoE-PGN promotes research that is locally relevant, testable, and useful for improving programme quality.
Why This Programme Is Needed
National nutrition programmes need a strong evidence base so that decisions do not rely on assumptions alone. Research and innovation help test approaches, understand barriers, and develop recommendations that can be substantiated.
Related Programme Content
Studies of water treatment or water quality improvement technologies undergo scientific assessment and technical approval before being recommended for wider application.
- Lessons from Jayapura: Building Local Capacity through Skills and Field Practice
Implementing food and nutrition programmes requires more than appropriate interventions. The capacity of the people delivering them is also important.
Key Focus Areas
Priority areas that inform the design of programme activities and content.
Conducting research and providing scientific evidence on national nutrition.
Developing quality assurance systems and certification for programme services.
Innovative approaches and implementation strategies adapted to regional contexts.
Identifying and analysing risks, and recommending mitigation measures to improve implementation.
Strengthening monitoring and integrated information systems to support programme learning.
Key Activities
Applied Studies
Studies grounded in field contexts to address programme and policy needs.
Testing Innovative Models
Controlled testing of service approaches, kitchens, distribution, or supporting technologies.
Disseminating Findings
Presenting research findings through policy briefs, articles, expert forums, and knowledge repositories.
Research Scope
Food Safety
Studies of food safety standards, ingredient quality, and nutritious meal service processes.
Nutrition & Health
Studies of the relationships between food consumption, nutritional status, and health across target groups.
Local Foods
Research on using local foods to support nutritional adequacy, acceptability, and sustainability.
Supply Chains & Food Safety
Studies of supply chains, ingredient quality, distribution, and food safety controls.
Outputs and Benefits
- A priority research agenda connected to programme needs.
- Research reports, policy briefs, and dissemination materials.
- Recommendations for innovations that can be tested or replicated in stages.