KKU research development project completion report, Research and Development Institute, Khon Kaen University

Evaluation covers the period 5/83-12/89. The RDI grew rapidly in terms of both staff development and administrative capability and played an important role not only in developing the KKU faculty's research capacity, but also in promoting the application of innovative research methods -- particularly in the areas of qualitative research, participatory research, and the social sciences. It raised the awareness and skill levels of young faculty members in development-oriented research and acted as a focus for attracting external funds for research. RDI gained widely recognized prestige and credibility and played an important role in building the capacity of NGO's in the region through its training, coordination, and networking activities. On the negative side, certain research projects (e.g., the rice bran development project) overemphasized the physical sciences and neglected socioeconomic aspects. Also, RDI's very limited interaction with government agencies suggests that it has little influence among policymakers. Overall, the project has achieved its objectives. This success is primarily attributable to: (1) clear and feasible objectives; (2) a flexible administrative framework that streamlines procedures and provides a consultative management process; (3) an effective monitoring system; and (4) flexible disbursement procedures and mechanisms.