The Art of Influencing Policy Change
Venue: African Academy of Sciences, Karen Campus, Miotoni Road, Karen, Nairobi, Kenya
Date: 1ˢᵗ – 3ʳᵈ July 2026

Researchers and development practitioners will soon convene for a specialized training course aimed at enhancing the impact of research on public policy and development outcomes.

While research across fields such as agriculture, health, engineering, economics, and the social sciences continues to generate valuable knowledge and innovations, the translation of research findings into policy and practice remains limited. Increasingly, researchers are being called upon to demonstrate the real-world impact of their work beyond academic publications and patents.

This upcoming course will equip participants with practical skills, tools, and strategies to improve the uptake and utilization of research findings in policymaking and development programming. Through interactive sessions, participants will explore critical questions around bridging the gap between research and policy, the role of evidence in decision-making, stakeholder engagement, gender-responsive policymaking, and approaches for fostering inclusive policy processes.

Participants will also learn how to effectively communicate research evidence, engage policymakers and stakeholders, and contribute to evidence-informed public action.

The course is designed for researchers, practitioners, and professionals seeking to strengthen the influence of their work on policy and development outcomes. It will be delivered through a hybrid format, combining both physical and virtual learning sessions to maximize accessibility and participation.

By fostering stronger links between research, policy, and practice, the training aims to contribute to more effective, inclusive, and evidence-based decision-making that improves lives and supports sustainable development.