The Research Ethics Committee (REC) at Madonna University, Nigeria, is a multidisciplinary body responsible for safeguarding the rights, dignity and well-being of participants involved in research conducted under the auspices of the university. The Committee ensures that all research adheres to ethical standards, national guidelines and international best practices. Core functions and activities of the Committee cover:
– Ethical Review of Research Proposals
– Protection of Research Participants: Ensuring that researchers obtain informed consent, maintain confidentiality and minimize risks to participants, especially in biomedical, social science, and behavioral studies.
– Guidance and Capacity Building: Provides training and resources on research ethics to faculty, students, and staff, promoting ethical awareness and responsible conduct of research.
– Monitoring of Ongoing Research by conducting periodic reviews and audits of approved research projects to ensure continued compliance with ethical protocols and approved procedures.
– Policy Development and Oversight: Develops and updates institutional research ethics guidelines in line with national and international regulations, such as those from the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC).
– Serves as an advisory body to the university on ethical issues related to research, innovation and the use of emerging technologies.
– Resolution of Ethical Issues: Through its activities, the Research Ethics Committee upholds the integrity of Madonna University’s research enterprise, ensuring that all scholarly investigations are conducted with transparency, accountability and respect for human and environmental values.
