The School conducts research and plays a policy advisory role to public agencies leading to impactful and transformative results.  The school takes cognizance that policy making in the Public Service is based on scientific analysis of social, economic, governance issues, and objective, evidence-based formulation of related policies and strategies.

Research at KSG responds to the requirement of continuous learning through discovery of new and innovative ideas for increased creativity and solution of emerging problems. The three dimensions used in the research activities include:

Generation of knowledge in the relevant spheres of public service and national development; the School continues to undertake an increasing number of research works for knowledge that supports policy review and development

Dissemination of knowledge by providing platforms for sharing information, ideas and experiences with stakeholders; through the East African Journal of Public Affairs, occasional paper series, conferences and seminars.

Establishment of Think Tanks to identify, analyze, and evaluate current policy issues and make proposals on policy development and review. Think tanks at the School are formed around a discipline or topical issues that require expert and professional deliberations to inform the way forward.

Research conducted by KSG aims at:

• Inform development or review of policy.
• Provide evidence-based solution to existing problems.
• Enhance innovation.
• Advance epistemology and freedom