Call for Mentees: INGSA-Africa Science Advice Skills Development Program (SASDP) 2026

Bridging the Gap: Mastering Science Advice with the INGSA-Africa SASDP 2026

Most research papers gather dust in digital archives, but your scientific expertise has the potential to actually reshape national policy if you know how to package it for the right audience. The INGSA-Africa Science Advice Skills Development Program (SASDP) isn’t just another workshop; it is a tactical intervention designed to transform ivory-tower academics into influential policy brokers across the African continent.

Key Details at a Glance

  • Program Focus: Strengthening the science-policy interface for early and mid-career researchers.
  • Format: Interactive training, hands-on mentorship, and practical policy exercises.
  • Geographic Scope: Open to researchers based in African countries.
  • Application Deadline: August 17, 2026.

Who Should Apply?

This program is tailor-made for early and mid-career researchers, including PhD candidates and postdoctoral fellows, who are currently working within African institutions. If you find yourself frustrated by the disconnect between the data you generate and the decisions made by government officials, you are the ideal candidate. Whether you are in public health, climate science, or social policy, the SASDP is looking for professionals who are ready to step out of the lab and into the corridors of power.

What You Will Gain

The SASDP provides a structured pathway to competence. You aren't just reading textbooks; you are engaging in real-world simulations. Participants receive specialized training in communicating complex scientific findings to non-expert policymakers, navigating the political landscape, and building sustainable networks with regional stakeholders. By the end of the program, you will possess a toolkit for drafting policy briefs, managing science advice mechanisms, and effectively advocating for evidence-informed governance in your home country.

Comparison to Similar Opportunities

While fellowships like the AAS (African Academy of Sciences) programs often focus on research funding and technical capacity, the INGSA-Africa SASDP distinguishes itself by focusing exclusively on the translation of science. Other programs, such as the Elsevier Foundation initiatives, may provide broader mentorship, but they rarely offer the specific political science-policy training that INGSA provides. If your goal is to land a seat at the policy-making table rather than just securing another grant for equipment, this program is your best bet.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

  1. Prepare Your Documents: Gather your current CV and a brief statement of interest detailing why you want to influence policy.
  2. Visit the Portal: Navigate to the official Opportunity Desk page to access the application form.
  3. Review the Criteria: Ensure your research area aligns with the core themes of the INGSA-Africa network.
  4. Submit: Complete the application form, ensuring all sections are filled out with specific examples of your engagement with the science-policy interface.

3 Pro Tips for a Strong Application

  1. Focus on Impact: Don't just list your publications. Briefly explain how one of your research projects could have (or did) influence a specific local or national policy.
  2. Show Potential: The reviewers are looking for future leaders. Highlight any instances where you took the initiative to present your work to non-academics, such as community leaders or NGOs.
  3. Be Specific: When asked about your goals, avoid generic statements about "helping society." Instead, describe the specific policy area you want to change, such as "improving renewable energy adoption in urban centers in East Africa."

Important Dates

Mark your calendars: The absolute deadline for all applications is August 17, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted, so aim to have your application finalized at least 48 hours prior to the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Conclusion

This program is a rare opportunity to sharpen the tools needed to turn abstract research into tangible government action. Take the time to refine your application, and be sure to articulate exactly how you plan to use this mentorship to advocate for evidence-based decisions in your local context.

Apply Now from Official Website