2026 Science Advice Skills Development Program (SASDP) ? 5th Cohort

The Science Advice Skills Development Program is a six-month mentorship initiative that equips early and mid-career African researchers with the knowledge and skills needed to engage effectively at the science–policy interface. Through mentoring, workshops, and networking opportunities, the programme helps researchers translate scientific evidence into policy recommendations that support Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in Africa.

About the Science Advice Skills Development Program

The Science Advice Skills Development Program is designed to strengthen the capacity of early and mid-career African researchers interested in science advice and policymaking.

The programme helps participants develop the skills needed to communicate scientific evidence effectively, engage with policymakers, and contribute to evidence-informed decision-making across Africa.

Program Objectives

The programme aims to:

• Strengthen the capacity of African researchers in science advice.
• Bridge the gap between scientific research and policymaking.
• Improve participants’ ability to communicate scientific evidence for policy.
• Build skills in evidence-informed policy analysis.
• Facilitate networking among mentees, mentors, and the INGSA-Africa community.
• Promote collaboration between researchers and policymakers across Africa.

Focus Area

The programme focuses on:

• Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in Africa

Priority Research Areas

Preference will be given to applicants working in one or more of the following areas:

• Health.
• Water.
• Energy.
• Food security.
• Biodiversity.
• Natural resource management.
• Indigenous knowledge.
• Digital innovations.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Program Duration

The programme will run for:

• Six months, beginning in October 2026.

Program Structure

The programme includes several learning and mentoring components.

Virtual Introductory Workshop

Participants will:

• Meet their assigned mentors.
• Receive an introduction to science advice.
• Learn about the programme structure and expectations.

One-to-One Mentoring

During the mentoring phase, participants will:

• Work closely with experienced science advice practitioners.
• Develop science advice documents for their organisations.
• Strengthen policy engagement and communication skills.
• Receive personalised guidance throughout the programme.

Virtual Progress Review

Approximately one month after the programme begins, participants will:

• Present and discuss their science advice proposals.
• Exchange experiences with fellow mentees.
• Receive feedback from mentors and peers.

Online Lectures

Participants may attend:

• Up to two online lectures every six weeks.
• Each lecture will last approximately 45 minutes.
• Sessions will provide additional insights into science advice and policymaking.

Closing Workshop

The programme concludes with a virtual workshop that:

• Reviews participant achievements.
• Shares lessons learned.
• Strengthens professional networks within the science advice community.

Mentorship

Participants will be matched with mentors according to their:

• Research expertise.
• Professional interests.
• Science policy focus areas.

Mentors include volunteer experts from:

• INGSA.
• African research institutions.
• European Commission Joint Research Centre (EU-JRC).
• International Science Council (ISC).
• American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
• Science advisors.
• Evidence advisors.
• Knowledge brokers.
• Experts in science, innovation, diplomacy, and public policy.

Language Support

The programme is conducted in English.

However:

• Francophone applicants are encouraged to apply.
• Lusophone applicants are encouraged to apply.
• Every effort will be made to match participants with mentors who can provide language-appropriate support.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be an early or mid-career African scientist or researcher.
• Be working on the African continent.
• Hold a PhD obtained within the past 10 years.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in science advice and policy engagement.
• Have a solid scientific publication or research record in their field.

Priority Applicants

Preference will be given to researchers whose work relates to:

• Health.
• Water.
• Energy.
• Food security.
• Biodiversity.
• Natural resource management.
• Indigenous knowledge.
• Digital technologies.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in Africa.

Program Benefits

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Build practical science policy skills.
• Learn how to translate research into policy recommendations.
• Receive one-to-one mentoring from experienced science advisors.
• Expand professional networks across Africa and internationally.
• Improve science communication skills.
• Gain experience preparing science advice documents.
• Strengthen their ability to contribute to evidence-informed policymaking.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants can improve their application by:

• Demonstrating a genuine interest in science advice and public policy.
• Highlighting research achievements and scientific expertise.
• Explaining how their work contributes to Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development in Africa.
• Showing a commitment to applying scientific evidence in policymaking.
• Clearly describing how participation will strengthen their professional development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply for the Science Advice Skills Development Program?

Early and mid-career African scientists and researchers working on the African continent who obtained a PhD within the past 10 years are eligible to apply.

What is the duration of the programme?

The programme runs for six months, beginning in October 2026.

What topics does the programme focus on?

Priority areas include:

• Health.
• Water.
• Energy.
• Food security.
• Biodiversity.
• Natural resource management.
• Indigenous knowledge.
• Digital technologies.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI).

What activities are included?

Participants take part in:

• A virtual introductory workshop.
• One-to-one mentoring.
• Progress review sessions.
• Online lectures.
• A closing workshop.

Is the programme conducted only in English?

The programme is delivered in English, but Francophone and Lusophone applicants are encouraged to apply, and language-appropriate mentors will be assigned where possible.

What are the benefits of participating?

Participants gain mentoring, policy engagement skills, science communication experience, networking opportunities, and practical experience in preparing science advice documents for decision-makers.

Conclusion

The Science Advice Skills Development Program offers an excellent opportunity for early and mid-career African researchers to strengthen their science policy and leadership skills through mentoring, professional networking, and practical learning. By equipping participants to translate scientific evidence into effective policy advice, the programme contributes to stronger evidence-informed decision-making and supports Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development across Africa.