New TDR strategy endorsed by Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee (STAC)
TDR’s new strategy took an important step forward with its endorsement today by the Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee (STAC). The strategy includes a focus on research that increases access to health solutions like medicines and diagnostics, adds new work that includes the environment and society, and expands its programme on research capacity strengthening in low and middle income countries.
Fifteen members spent three days reviewing the reorganisation and refocusing of the scientific portfolio. “STAC enthusiastically and unanimously endorsed the new direction and management,” said STAC chair Mario Rodriguez-Lopez from Mexico, who called attention to additional funding that is helping to invigorate the Programme.
The new strategy is being led by Director John Reeder, who started his appointment the end of February. It is based on a series of reviews and analyses conducted since August, 2011, including an external review of the organisation and management, an R&D review, consultations with TDR’s Standing Committee that comprises its co-sponsors UNICEF, UNDP, the World Bank and WHO, and with the TDR staff.
The strategy is being finalised for presentation in June to TDR’s top governing body, the Joint Coordinating Board. If it is endorsed there, implementation will then begin immediately afterward.
The meeting was held during the same time as the launch of The Global Report for Research on Infectious Diseases of Poverty at the European Commission, a major funder of that work.
STAC also endorsed TDR’s 2011 results report, which is based on performance indicators set up and put into use in 2010. The report measures progress in three categories of key performance indicators using established baseline data and targets for 2013-2015. These comprise progress made on strategic objectives, application of core values and measurement of managerial effectiveness.
Both the new strategy and the results report will be published on the TDR website after endorsement by the JCB.
For more information, please contact:
Jamie Guth
TDR Communications Manager
Telephone: +41 79 441 2289
E-mail: guthj@who.int