EDCTP’s approach is based on ‘Joint Programme Activities’; existing and/or ongoing research activities of two or more EU Member States working independently on the same area. For instance two or more Member States working separately in the same African centre. These activities can be developed into a Joint Programme Activity with or without EDCTP input. EDCTP is currently carrying out an analysis of Member States’ EDCTP relevant research activities in order to identify where there may be scope for linking individual research efforts together into a Joint Programme. Such activities may be eligible for additional EDCTP funding to enhance the research.

Integrated projects for sustainable research
Researchers in sub-Saharan Africa are faced with the need for multicentre protocols, a demanding regulatory environment and universal ethical standards. With the right resources and training, sub-Saharan countries have the opportunity to take leadership and create a sustainable environment for conducting high-quality medical research.
    
To achieve this, EDCTP offers larger grants that focus on clinical trials (which are the principal function of EDCTP) as the core and use networking and capacity development. EDCTP-funded activities are therefore based on the following components:

1. Networking and coordination of European national research and development programmes and with their partners in the south
2. Networking and coordination of African national programmes
3. Supporting relevant clinical trials
4. Strengthening the African capacity in this field

EDCTP believes that capacity development gives African researchers the opportunity to ‘learn by doing’, to utilise the developed capacity and to ensure a successful outcome and capacity retention. Networking through north-south and south-south mentorship will create the critical mass that is required for sustainability.