Institution-wide strategies for research integrity training: experience from the Kenya Medical Research Institute

Research misconduct undermines scientific credibility and public trust. Embedding research integrity (RI) education within institutions is a cornerstone of responsible conduct of research (RCR), however practical and scalable strategies remain under documented in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) established a Research Integrity Committee (RIC) in 2023 to institutionalize RI training. This paper describes the training strategies adopted by the KEMRI RIC to enhance institution-wide awareness and practices of RCR. Five complementary approaches were implemented: (1) a train-the-trainer (TTT) programme for RIC members; (2) the integration of RI symposia into national scientific and bioethics conferences; (3) geographically clustered, centre-specific training tailored to local needs; (4) hybrid in-person/virtual training delivery platforms; and (5) digital dissemination through bulletins, social media, and the institutional website. Over 1200 of over 4000 of the participants were reached across all 15 KEMRI research centers. Presentation of the committee work at the WCRI (Athens 2024) raised the profile of the RI awareness efforts locally and globally. This KEMRI experience describes opportunities for institutions seeking to foster a culture of responsible research.