1. Know Your Proposal Inside-Out – Be ready to defend your problem statement, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes without reading word-for-word.
2. Understand National Relevance – Connect your research to Nigeria’s priorities: SDGs, climate change, food security, education, health, or innovation.
3. Expect Questions on Impact – Panelists will ask: “Who benefits from your research, and how?” Prepare a clear answer.
4. Be Clear on Budget – Justify every item logically. Avoid padding; show you can manage funds responsibly.
5. Stay Simple and Concise – Avoid jargon. Use plain, convincing language.
6. Be Ready for Risks – They may ask: “What could go wrong?” Have a risk-mitigation plan.
7. Practice Mock Interviews – Rehearse with colleagues or mentors. Time yourself (5–10 mins).
8. Body Language Matters – Sit upright, maintain eye contact, and smile. Confidence counts.
9. Don’t Panic if Stuck – If you don’t understand a question, politely ask for clarification instead of fumbling.
10. Show Long-Term Vision – Explain how your research will remain useful beyond the grant (policy adoption, industry collaboration, training, etc.).
Final Tip: Walk into the room not as a “candidate begging for funds” but as a problem-solver offering Nigeria a solution. That confidence will shine through.
If you found this helpful, kindly share it with other researchers preparing for the NRF TETFund interview. Let’s support each other in driving Nigeria’s research and innovation forward.
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