How do the problem model, needs assessment and strategic plan fit together in the proposal?
The problem model is the focal point of the RFA and should be the initial focus of an application. The RFA encourages applicants to focus on a development problem that can be identified with one of the six focus areas of the Initiative. Such a problem is expected to have a significant impact on development in Africa and solve problems of society. The purpose of requiring a statement of the problem model is to ensure that the overall strategic planning will be grounded in the application of institutional resources to solve a national, regional and/or global problem considered to be important by the African partner institution(s). The purpose of the needs assessment to be undertaken with award funds is to identify any gaps of partner institutions in capacity to address aspects of the problem model, thus indicating where additional capacity needs to be built. The strategic plan, which is to result from the planning activity supported by the grants, should incorporate a strategy for long-t
