MDS engages with university and think tank organisations to conduct research in various development issues, informing policy and practice while providing evidence to support advocacy. We are knowledgeable in numerous research designs such as descriptive research design, correlational research design, experimental research design, diagnostic research design and explanatory research design. Thus, we have expertise in designing and implementing tailored research programs to generate data for program development, lesson learning, lobbying and advocacy. Moreover, we have established partnerships with internationally renowned research institutions, and we can communicate research effectively to different audiences. Our current partnership with international renowned institutions enhances credibility of our work through rigorous peer review and validation processes.
Our services span across various sectors which include: Gender Equality, Child and Social Protection, Human Rights, Health and Health systems development, HIV/AIDS and Sexual and Reproductive Health, Food security, agriculture, and nutrition, Poverty reduction and sustainable livelihoods, Humanitarian assistance and social protection, Environment and Climate Change and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene.
Selected studies
National Qualitative and Quantitative Longitudinal Study on the primary and secondary ages learners process of survival in Zimbabwe, 2017 to 2020.
MDS conducted a four (4) year National Qualitative and Quantitative Longitudinal Study which tracked a mobile cohort of 3227 students, transitioning from primary school into secondary schools, in Zimbabwe. The overall objective of the Longitudinal Study was to gain a deeper understanding of the process of Survival and the experiences of the children who drop out of school. The study began with a baseline in 2017, a midline in 2019 and an endline in 2020, and was commissioned by UNICEF Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe Formative Research on Menstrual Hygiene Management (January to June 2019)
We conducted a Formative Research on Menstrual Hygiene Management in all ten provinces of Zimbabwe from January to June 2019. This study was commissioned by UNICEF and the Government of Zimbabwe with the aim of consolidating and documenting the status of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) for in and out of schoolgirls aged 10-24 years in Zimbabwe. The study aimed to gather information that will direct initiatives to effectively address girls’ and young women’s menstrual hygiene management (MHM) needs in Zimbabwe, in line with global standards and trends. UNICEF managed the study with Government stakeholders providing technical support throughout the process.