The aim of this research is to respond to the challenge of adjusting technology to local contexts in the field of ICT for development, by developing a comprehensive approach (methodology) for the analysis and design of sustainable and scalable socio-technical information systems that promote societal development of local communities in varying developing-country contexts. In addition, the project has a capacity building objective of forming a sustained tripartite international research group capable of disseminating, evaluating and improving the approach further.

Team

Koivu Annariina, Luukkonen Irmeli, Martikainen Susanna, Palmen Marilla, Pentikäinen Marika, Tiihonen Tuija, Vainikainen Vilma

To strengthen the resilience of the people living in high risk urban and semi-urban areas, this project concentrates on establishing an Early Warning System through the improvement of early warning services with the support of the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI), in close cooperation with the National Meteorological Services (NMSs) of Malawi, government and other main stakeholders at various levels.

Team

This research focuses on FBOs (World Vision, Fida International and Free Pentecostal Church of Tanzania) and their development projects by employing the capability approach and examining how the faith base influences assessments of valued functionings as aspects of good life, capabilities, and freedoms. Research is based on fieldwork in several regions in Tanzania.

Team

Project "Developing Development Studies" is a capacity building project between Finnish and African universities aiming to produce highly qualified professionals in socio-economic development, capable of participating in official policy dialogue, training future professionals, and carrying out basic and applied research of excellence and relevance in Africa.

Team

Tiina Kontinen, Adalgot Komba, Colman Msoka, Chrispin Matenga

The aim of the CAPOLSA project is to establish a strong literacy centre with international visibility and impact, specifically in African countries facing similar challenges to Zambia. The literacy training approach is based on the Grapho Learning Initiative and the innovative and efficient digital-based learning game, GraphoGame that has been developed based on scientific studies led by Professor Heikki Lyytinen.  THe project was funded by the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the HEI ICI programme. Project Award Number: HEI ICI‐2010‐P1‐000153

Team

Professor Heikki Lyytinen, Professor Robert Serpell, Head of Planning & Development Päivi Fadjukoff

The Internet is one of the most important innovations in today’s ICT domain. It is a tremendous, undisputed force for economic growth and social change (Dalberg Survey Report, 2013). The Internet technology is significantly changing the costs and modes of communication within Africa as well as between Africans and the rest of the world (Foster et al., 2004). This innovation is required to enhance information processing in order to execute applications and deliver services (Mofleh et al., 2008 and Raji et al., 2006). Africans living at home and abroad are experiencing the significant benefits of the Internet as well as its impact on economic development of their countries (Langmia, 2005).

Team

Almamy Touray, Airi Salminen, Timo Hämäläinen, Anja Mursu

1st project: to study the challenges in and impacts of various strategies to the integration of human rights into development 2nd project: to come up with evidence-based recommendations for the operationalization of HRBA in development cooperation

Team

1st project (integrating human rights and development): Alessandra Sarelin, Maija Mustaniemi-Laakso, Tiina Saaresranta; 2nd project (operationalizing HRBA): Alessandra Sarelin, Maija Mustaniemi-Laakso,Hisayo Katsui, Eija Ranta, Godfrey Musila