The University of Zambia (UNZA) hosted a Research and Innovation Dissemination and Funding Information Workshop on 20 August 2025. The event brought together researchers, policymakers, and international partners to strengthen collaboration and secure funding for research and innovation aimed at addressing national challenges and driving development. The workshop was a partnership between UNZA, the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to the African Union (AU), and EURAXESS Africa.
Speaking during the workshop, Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, commended UNZA for its leadership in promoting research and innovation. He acknowledged the struggles faced by young innovators who lack financial support and access to resources, despite their hard work. Mutati appealed to international partners and recruiters like the European Union to simplify funding procedures, particularly for young people.
"I wish to make an earnest appeal to our stakeholders and all cooperating partners, such as the European Union (EU) and other recruiters, to simplify the funding procedures when it comes to accessing funds for innovation, especially for the young people," he stated.
The Minister also called for increased awareness campaigns to inform young people about available opportunities and to encourage them to apply for funding. He stressed the importance of using African data to develop "home-grown solutions" that were sustainable and grounded in local realities. Mutati also called for stronger collaboration between Zambia and the EU to advance science and technology, noting that global challenges require international partnerships.
Speaking at the same event, EU Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, H.E. Karolina Stasiak, reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting research and innovation in Africa. She highlighted that the EU has made over €500 million available for innovation initiatives on the continent.
And UNZA Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mundia Muya, emphasised the university's central role in the national research landscape. He highlighted the establishment of the UNZA Research and Innovation Hub as a deliberate effort to create a dedicated platform for nurturing new ideas and projects.
Highlighting some of the funding opportunities for researchers, National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), Executive Secretary Prof. Michelo Syakalima detailed the structure of the National Research Fund and the Science and Technology Innovation Youth Fund.
Further, the European Union (EU), Minister-Counselor for Science, Technology, and Innovation at the EU Delegation to the AU, Dr. Laurent Bochereau, introduced the newly launched Horizon Europe Africa Initiative III, which offers more than €500 million in opportunities for African researchers.
Additionally, Prof. Yedilfana Setarge Mekonnen of EURAXESS Africa discussed support mechanisms for African scholars to help them navigate mobility and networking schemes, and Erasmus+ funding opportunities were also presented.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders and provided a crucial platform for dialogue on the future of research and innovation in Zambia.