2025 Research Communication Program at Leaders of Africa Institute: Apply Now (Scholarships)

The Leaders of Africa Institute is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Research Communication Program, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering researchers and professionals to communicate their work with clarity, strategy, and impact.

Why Research Communication Matters

In 2025, the world faces a complex array of challenges—ranging from disruptions in global food and energy systems to economic volatility, mounting public health pressures, climate change, education inequality, and increasing political polarization and conflict.

Research plays a critical role in understanding and addressing these issues, but the value of research depends not only on its quality, relevance, and rigor, but also on how effectively it is communicated to those who can act on it.

Without strong communication, vital research risks being overlooked or misunderstood. The Research Communication Program addresses this gap by providing the training and tools necessary for scholars, faculty, practitioners, and advocates to make their work accessible and impactful across a wide variety of audiences.

Program Overview

The Research Communication Program prepares participants—known as Communication Scholars—to communicate their research to academic peers, policymakers, media outlets, civil society organizations, and the general public. Through a carefully designed curriculum, the program offers practical strategies to bridge the gap between evidence and action.

Participants develop skills in:

• Writing research briefs and policy memos
• Delivering compelling and concise presentations
• Producing multimedia content, including videos and visual explainers
• Engaging with journalists and media organizations
• Simplifying complex research findings for diverse audiences

The goal is to ensure that research does not remain siloed in academic settings but informs policy, public discourse, and development practice.

Tools and Technologies

In addition to communication techniques, the program offers hands-on training with a range of tools that help streamline and professionalize communication efforts. Scholars gain experience using:

• Overleaf/LaTeX for technical and academic writing
• Canva for visual design and infographics
• Google Analytics for tracking digital engagement
• Wix and WordPress for web publishing and content management
• DaVinci Resolve and CapCut for high-quality video editing
• Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) for recording and live streaming
• Interactive presentation platforms to foster engagement and dialogue

This practical focus ensures that participants leave the program equipped not only with knowledge, but with the digital competencies needed in today’s communication landscape.

Who Should Apply

The Research Communication Program is open to applicants from all fields and disciplines. Applications are welcomed from individuals based on the African continent and internationally. Whether one is early in their research career or an established academic or practitioner, the program offers valuable insights and skills for anyone looking to increase the reach and relevance of their work.

A commitment to research-informed social impact and an eagerness to grow as a communicator are key attributes of successful applicants.

Impact Scholarship for Accepted Participants

All accepted applicants receive an Impact Scholarship, which fully supports their participation in the program. The scholarship reflects the Leaders of Africa Institute’s commitment to removing financial barriers and expanding access to high-quality training for researchers dedicated to public engagement and evidence-based change.

Information and Workshop Session

To provide further insight into the program, the Leaders of Africa Institute will host a Research Communication Program Information and Workshop Session on:

Date: Wednesday, September 17
Time: 2:00 PM UTC
Platform: Zoom

This session is open to all prospective applicants and those interested in research communication. It will cover key details about the program, the application process, and include a brief interactive workshop introducing foundational communication practices and tools.

To register for the session, visit:
https://lnkd.in/gDkuKG

Learn More and Apply

Interested individuals can learn more about the program, review eligibility, and download the Official Program Guide Here

The Leaders of Africa Institute invites researchers, academics, and advocates to join a growing community committed to making research more accessible, influential, and transformative. Applications are now open for the 2025 cohort.