Update on electronic Research Administration ethics system

Dear colleagues

I am pleased to provide an update on the ongoing implementation of the online ethics application and review module at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The project implementation, which commenced in 2021, has since made significant progress. We aim to complete the project by the end of 2024.

We have successfully rolled out the electronic Research Administration (eRA) ethics system across multiple faculties and departments, including:

• Engineering & the Built Environment
• Commerce
• Law
• Science
• Centre for Higher Education and Development
• Inter-Faculty Human Research Ethics Committee

The system is now fully operational in these areas. As with the development and implementation of most new systems, there have been teething problems. The support team is working hard to address problems as they arise, and we are hopeful that all current issues will be resolved as quickly as possible. The eRA team will also set up a new round of post implementation review meetings with the above ethics committees before the end of the year to better understand challenges.

Rollouts in progress and to commence in due course

We are currently in the process of conducting training on the eRA module within the following faculties to ensure a thorough and effective transition:

• Animal Ethics for Health Sciences
• Humanities
• Human Research Ethics Committee

This phase includes extensive hands-on training sessions to familiarise users with the platform’s features. The team is also addressing any issues and customising the system to meet each faculty’s specific needs.

In the coming months, we will continue rolling out the eRA ethics module to the following areas before the end of 2024:

• Animal Ethics for Science
• Biosafety

UCT remains committed to ensuring the success of the eRA ethics module. As we continue this journey, I extend my gratitude to all those who have embraced this change and worked diligently to ensure its implementation.

Sincerely

Professor Jeff Murugan
Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Internationalisation

Read previous communications:

• From the UCT Executive
• Campus Announcements