Leaders of Africa Institute Research Communication Program 2026

Applications are now open for the Leaders of Africa Institute Research Communication Program 2026, an advanced virtual program designed to equip researchers, faculty members, practitioners, communication strategists, and advocates with practical skills for communicating research clearly and effectively to different audiences.

The program is designed for people working across all academic and professional fields. Participants will learn how to translate complex research findings into clear and compelling messages for academic peers, policymakers, media organizations, funders, practitioners, and the general public. The program places particular emphasis on helping researchers increase the visibility, reach, and influence of their work.

The Research Communication Program will run from November 2026 to January 2027 through a live synchronous virtual classroom. Participants are expected to dedicate approximately three hours per week to the program. The program also provides opportunities for mentorship, international networking, and professional development through the Leaders of Africa Institute community.

About the Program

The Research Communication Program is a flagship program of the Leaders of Africa Institute focused on connecting research and communication. It recognizes that high quality research can have limited impact when findings are not communicated effectively to the people who can use them.

Participants will learn how to identify different audiences, adapt messages to stakeholder needs, communicate complex information in accessible ways, and select appropriate communication channels. The training covers both traditional research communication and modern digital approaches.

The program includes practical training in research articles, policy briefs, presentations, media engagement, webinars, blogs, social media content, multimedia production, research profiles, and visual communication. Participants will apply the skills to their own research and professional interests throughout the program.

Program Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• An official Leaders of Africa Institute certificate.

• An automatic Impact Scholarship worth approximately USD 3,700.

• Reduced program tuition of approximately USD 250 to USD 350 after the Impact Scholarship.

• Personal mentorship and a relationship with program instructors.

• Access to an international professional and research network.

• A professional research profile development opportunity.

• A portfolio of research communication work.

• Practical experience communicating research to academic, policy, media, and public audiences.

• Opportunities to develop a Capstone Project and present it at the International Showcase.

• Training in digital communication and multimedia tools.

• A reference letter if required.

The official program guide states that the total tuition is USD 4,000, while every accepted applicant receives an Impact Scholarship of approximately USD 3,700. The remaining fee is generally between USD 250 and USD 350.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants for the Research Communication Program must meet the following requirements:

• Applicants can come from any country internationally.

• Applicants can be from any academic or professional field.

• Researchers, faculty members, practitioners, communication strategists, and advocates are encouraged to apply.

• Applicants should have research, thematic, or professional interests that can benefit from stronger communication skills.

• Applicants should be prepared to participate in the live virtual program.

• Applicants should demonstrate clear reasons for wanting to strengthen their research communication abilities.

The program has a competitive admissions process. An Admission Committee reviews applications and selects prospective Scholars who demonstrate strong potential to benefit from the program and contribute to the cohort.

Required Application Materials

Applicants will need to prepare:

• Curriculum vitae or resume in one PDF file of up to 5 MB.

• Statement of Interest of no more than 500 words.

The Statement of Interest should address:

• Your research, thematic, and professional interests and relevant professional background.

• What shaped your academic or professional interests.

• What you hope to learn from the Research Communication Program.

• How the program will help you achieve your career and educational goals.

How to Apply

1. Review the Research Communication Program information and confirm that your academic or professional interests align with the program.
2. Prepare an updated curriculum vitae or resume and save it as one PDF file of no more than 5 MB.
3. Write a Statement of Interest of no more than 500 words addressing your research and professional interests, what shaped those interests, what you hope to learn, and how the program will support your career and educational goals.
4. Complete the online application form through the Leaders of Africa Institute application portal.
5. Review your application carefully and ensure that all required information and documents are included.