The purpose of this study was to examine the research capacity of Can Tho University's lecturers. The current status of research capacity of lecturers (n=198) was assessed based on basic criteria through questionnaires regarding the aspects of (1)awareness of lecturers on the role and importance of research activities; (2)motivation to perform scientific research; (3)self-evaluation on conducting scientific research capacity of lecturers; and (4)advantages and disadvantages of performing research activities. The results showed that lecturers have a proper awareness of the role and importance of doing research. The main motivations for lecturers to join scientific research were to improve their professional qualifications (93.4%) and support teaching (76.8%). In general, selfassessment of lecturers on their research capacity was mainly at fairly good level (41.1%), good (31.6%) and very good (5.2%). However, there were also some responses with poor level (3.11%). Support resources (administrative office and laboratories) are considered as main key factors affecting scientific research activities of lecturers. There is a need of policy to encourage the motivation and creating research environment. These are considered as potential solutions for improving research capacity and effectiveness of scientific research quality of lecturers and the University.

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