The Research, Postgraduate Studies and Innovation Center (RPSIC) is one of the flagship centers of Puntland State University (PSU). Established in 2010 and formally endorsed by the PSU Senate in the same year, RPSIC was created with a core mandate to initiate, facilitate and coordinate the University’s research agenda, postgraduate programmes and innovation activities in support of development. Over time, its role has evolved to include the cultivation of strategic research partnerships and the generation of evidence-based studies that inform policy, practice and institutional reform at local, national and regional levels.

RPSIC’s work is structured around four specialized thematic areas: (i) Governance and public services; (ii) Business and economic development; (iii) Social sectors, including education, health, youth and women; and (iv) Peacebuilding, security and society. Each thematic area is led by a director who works closely with dedicated RPSIC staff, ensuring coherent planning, coordinated implementation and effective use of resources across the Center. Through this structure, RPSIC aims to provide robust support to the University and its partners by delivering high-quality research, capacity-building initiatives and context-relevant innovations that respond to real development challenges.

RPSIC’s research portfolio is designed to address contemporary social, economic and governance issues, with particular attention to the needs and priorities of communities, government institutions and private sector organizations. Key activities include designing and conducting empirical research and assessments; producing and disseminating evidence-based publications; convening research conferences, policy dialogues and dissemination forums; and undertaking data collection, analysis and project monitoring and evaluation. In addition, the Center plays an active role in social development and reconstruction efforts, including relief and recovery programmes implemented in Somalia and particularly in Puntland in collaboration with national and international universities and research institutes, government entities, United Nations (UN) agencies, international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and local NGOs working in Puntland and the wider Horn of Africa.