Research Fellowship Program

At Impact Center for Policy Research, the Student Impact Program is actively empowering students across Zambia by offering practical opportunities for community engagement and leadership development. This ongoing initiative is dedicated to fostering innovation, building leadership skills, and encouraging students to play a vital role in sustainable development.

With over 200 applications in the first cohort, the program offers a competitive and dynamic learning environment. Fellows will gain invaluable experience by writing op-eds on critical issues like economic policy, sustainability, and social development, which will be published both locally and internationally. 

Throughout the fellowship, participants will benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities with experts in policy research, community development, and advocacy. This program fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and professional growth, empowering the next generation of leaders to become active agents of change.

Community Development Projects

Students in the Student Impact Program are currently engaging in hands-on community development projects that address local challenges such as economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and social development. These projects provide valuable experience in problem-solving, project management, and leadership, while making a direct impact on their communities.

Promoting Thought Leadership

The program is also facilitating public discourse through student-written op-eds. Participants are actively crafting and publishing articles on key issues including economic policy, sustainability, and social justice. With editorial support from our team, these op-eds are reaching local and international audiences, amplifying the voices of Zambia’s emerging young leaders.

Public Speaking and Advocacy

A series of ongoing public lectures is providing students with a platform to present their research, ideas, and project outcomes. These events are enhancing their leadership and communication skills while contributing to important discussions on policy reforms and community development. Students are actively engaging with community leaders, policymakers, and peers during these lectures.

Leadership and Capacity Building

The program is currently focusing on building students’ leadership capacities through targeted training and mentorship. Participants are learning to tackle local challenges, advocate for policy reforms, and develop sustainable solutions for community development. Our aim is to nurture a generation of leaders who are equipped to drive Zambia’s progress and promote economic growth.

In addition to building their research and policy analysis skills, fellows will gain firsthand knowledge of how policies affect local communities and will be trained to advocate for sustainable solutions. By the end of the fellowship, participants will have the tools, experience, and platform to continue advocating for positive change in Zambia and beyond.