The Directorate of Research and Postgraduate Support was initially named The Directorate of Research, Extension and Linkages (REL). It was established in 2009 within the Division of Planning, Research and Innovation (PR&I). It is headed and coordinated by a Director who is answerable directly to Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning, Research and Innovation (PR & I).

The Directorate of Research, Extension and Linkages (REL) is charged with the responsibility of administering the research policy in the University. The directorate coordinates research proposal ethical review, identifying and circulating sources of research funding opportunities and bringing the same to the attention of researchers. It also ensures that researchers are provided with expert guidance in research proposal development. This ensures the staff maximizes the returns from their research activities. The Directorate has also compiled a database of University research publications and mobilized researchers from various academic disciplines to write proposals in response to calls for proposals made by various granting organizations.