Leaders of Africa Institute Research Communication Program (RCP) 2025-2026
- Omran Aburayya
- Sep 4
- 3 min read
If you’re a researcher, faculty member, practitioner, or advocate who’s passionate about transforming complex findings into real-world impact. The Research Communication Program (RCP) by the Leaders of Africa Institute (LoAI) equips you with the strategic communication skills needed to elevate your research—ensuring it reaches and influences the right audiences, from policymakers and peers to the wider public.
Why This Program Matters
In a world grappling with climate change, health crises, inequality, and technological change, the value of research isn’t just in its rigor—it’s in how effectively that knowledge is conveyed to spark change.
🌐 Programme Summary
Location: Live virtual format, accessible globally
Host Institution: Leaders of Africa Institute
Type: Professional development program—suitable for researchers at any level
Target Group: Researchers, faculty, practitioners, and advocates across all fields
Fields of Focus: Open to all disciplines—from public health and social sciences to policy, education, and beyond
Format & Duration: November 2025 – January 2026, ~3 hours/week live virtual cloud classroom + individual mentoring
Application Window: Opens September 4, 2025, closes October 10, 2025
Start Date: November 2025
Eligible To: International applicants from any country and discipline
🧭 Program Overview
RCP is more than a course—it’s a launchpad for research influence. Scholars gain hands-on expertise in:
Writing research briefs, policy memos, and academic articles
Engaging effectively with media, including press releases and interviews
Presenting research in accessible ways, via infographics, multimedia content, and public-facing narratives
Building a personal research profile, including websites and portfolios
You'll also receive training in essential tools:
Overleaf / LaTeX
Canva, DaVinci Resolve, CapCut, Open Broadcaster Software
Website creation via Wix, WordPress
Google Analytics for measuring communication reach and engagement
The program emphasizes four core pillars:
Audience Analysis & Strategy – Tailoring messages to stakeholders (academics, policymakers, general public) and measuring impact with analytics.
Storytelling Techniques – Turning research into memorable, compelling stories.
Policy Communication – Crafting clear, actionable policy briefs and memos.
Media Engagement & Visual Communication – Working with journalists, creating visuals, videos, and formatted presentations that resonate.
🎁 Program Benefits & Qualifications
Scholars emerge from RCP with:
Official LoAI Certificate
A robust research portfolio and online profile
A reference letter, if needed
Mentorship during and after the program, plus connections within LoAI’s global network
The program culminates in continuing mentorship beyond January 2026, reinforcing long-term professional growth.
💰 Fees & Impact Scholarship
Total Tuition: USD 3,500
Impact Scholarship: Approximate USD 3,200 automatically awarded to all accepted scholars
Scholar Out-of-Pocket Fee: Only USD 250–350 (flexible installment options may be available)
📝 Application Procedure
To apply, you’ll need:
A CV or resume (single PDF, up to 5 MB)
A Statement of Interest (max 500 words), addressing:
Your research and professional interests
What shapes those interests
What you hope to learn from RCP
How the program fits your goals
Applications close on Friday, October 10, 2025—so be sure to apply well before then.
Admission is competitive and cohort sizes are intentionally limited to foster strong mentorship and meaningful peer engagement.
💡 Additional Highlights
Alumni Recognition: In 2024, RCP scholars were honored in the International Research Communication Showcase. Awards included Best Research Communication, Policy Impact, Creative Communication, Social Impact, Awareness, Program Citizenship, and Audience Choice. These reflect the program’s emphasis on creativity, policy influence, and community engagement .
Inclusive Access: RCP’s virtual structure and minimal fee make it accessible to a global community of researchers.
Cross-Disciplinary Reach: The program’s openness to all academic and professional fields ensures a rich, interdisciplinary cohort.
🚀 Final Takeaway
If you're ready to elevate your research from scholarly findings to societal change—this is the program for you. With expert guidance, practical tools, and a supportive network, RCP offers a unique path to transform your research into compelling, policy-relevant narratives and advocacy tools.
