Ipsos in Kenya and The Research Clubs of Africa

The Research Clubs of Africa is a CSR program that was initiated by Ipsos in Kenya in 2007 to build high school students’ capacity in the awareness, appreciation, adoption and use of market and social research, in recognition of the current low understanding and use of research in Africa, despite its importance.

RCA’s work is centered around the school environment, whereby students within the high school come together and form a research club, headed by a patron (teacher who is passionate about research). In the past, the students have been able to undertake impactful research projects that have brought to fore key issues within our society, such  as Cheating in Examinations findings of which were shared with KNEC the, "impact of menstruation on girls’ school performance", advising the Government’s decision to provide sanitary towels to the Girl student in high schools. Another is bullying which informed the current NO-Bullying Policy in Lenana School, Drug abuse, just to mention a few. The Research Clubs of Africa organises annual inter-club competitions, to recognise students’ excellence in research projects. The competitions are held at regional and National levels in three regions: Nairobi, Nyeri and Nakuru.

On 4th February 2017 the Research Clubs of Africa held their National competitions. The event brought together 12 qualifying schools as well as a high turnout of Ipsos staff who serve as mentors to the clubs.

The 2016 theme, Leadership: Integrity and Ethics produces amazing research projects including: Role models, Sports betting just to mention a few. In attendance were some of Kenya’s key clients.