This Institute was established in October 1965 for the purpose of initiating and directing research on socio-economic and cultural problems relating to the over-all development of Kenya in particular and East Africa in general. Related functions are: to promote and co-ordinate interdisciplinary research programmes; to provide research opportunities and experience for East African students interested in academic careers; to develop instructional materials for university and other teaching purposes; to undertake contract research for, and to co-operate in study projects with, agencies of the Kenya Government; and to provide a centre with which research workers from other countries of Africa and from overseas may be associated.