Research Grants for Students in Institutions of Higher Learning to Promote Critical Thinking – 2025

BACKGROUND

The Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC)’s core mandate is to conduct evidence-based advocacy for quality education for all Zambians. Therefore the mission of ZANEC is to serve as a national Coalition of education organisations promoting quality and inclusive education for all through research, advocacy, social accountability and member capacity building.

ZANEC has been running a Student Research Mentorship Programme since 2018 with the support of the Norwegian Students’ and Academics’ International Assistance Fund (SAIH). Since then, several students from various Private and Public Institutions of Higher Learning across the country have been provided with technical and financial support to conduct academic-style research on topical issues.

RATIONALE

ZANEC has been running the Student Research Mentorship Programme since 2018 with the support of the Norwegian Students’ and Academics’ International Assistance Fund (SAIH). Since then, 140 students from various Private and Public Institutions of Higher Learning across the country have been provided with technical and financial support to conduct academic-style research on topical issues. The ZANEC research mentorship programme is, therefore, designed to enhance research skills, critical thinking as well as effective analytical and communication skills that are globally sought-after and incredibly beneficial for students pursuing higher education.

1. RESEARCH PURPOSE

To provide ten (10) students who are enrolled at any Zambian private or public university or college with an opportunity to enhance their research skills.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

• Support identified students to conduct research on topical issues for the 2024 academic year.
• Through the research findings, create evidence to support ZANEC’s advocacy on the promotion of academic freedoms in institutions of higher learning.

2. SCOPE OF RESEARCH TOPICS

Successful applicants will conduct academic research. Preference will be given to research topics focusing on the following areas:

• Funding and Sustainability of the HELSB: Investigating resource allocation, number of students awarded scholarships, financial challenges, and strategies for enhancing sustainability (Note: This is a priority for ZANEC-One student to be funded)
• Access and Equity: Examining issues related to access to higher education, including enrollment rates, gender parity, and marginalised groups.
• Academic Programs in High Learning Institutions: Assessing the relevance of academic programs in enhancing knowledge and skills for problem-solving; alignment of academic qualification of students during admission; availability of lecturers, learning and teaching materials; and challenges faced with to enhance learning outcomes for the students.
• Governance and Management: Analyzing governance structures, leadership dynamics, and institutional management practices.
• Student Welfare and Support Services: Assessing the availability and effectiveness of support services for students, including counselling, health care, and career guidance.
• Digital Transformation: Investigating the integration of technology in teaching, learning, and administrative processes.
• Other topics may include, but will not be limited to female participation in student affairs, sexual harassment of students in higher learning institutions and participation of students with disabilities and other marginalised students in student leadership.

KEY DELIVERABLES

i. Submit a research proposal expressing interest in undertaking research in any of the above-provided topics, outlining focus, methodology and timelines.
ii. Must be available to attend an inception orientation meeting on research methodologies.
iii. Carry out academic research in not more than two months.
iv. Timely submission of completed research documents after two months of research.
v. Submit 2 hard copies and a soft copy of the final research report to ZANEC.

3. REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Must be an enrolled second or third-year student at an institution of higher learning (university or College).

All research proposals must be submitted through email or hand delivered to the address below by Friday, 21st February 2025.

The Executive Director,
Zambia National Education Coalition,
P.O. Box 30774,
Lusaka-Zambia,

Email: admin@zanec.org.zm
CC: za2002nec@gmail.com

Guiding Notes for Student Research Proposals:
Your research proposal should include but not limited to:
1. Research Topic
2. Statement of the problem
3. Purpose (objectives of the study)
4. Specific objective/s
5. Methodology
6. Literature Review
7. Hypothesis
8. Definition of terms
9. Assumptions

Note that the above is a guide designed to ensure that your proposal follows a standard structure.