MUNDUBILE CALLS FOR NATIONAL POLICY DRIVEN BY LOCAL RESEARCH
When Honourable Brian Mundubile appeared on BM8 Unfiltered, presenter Buchi posed a critical question about how he plans to use the expertise of local universities such as the University of Zambia and the Copperbelt University, as well as research organisations, to ensure that research actively informs national policy.
Mundubile’s response revealed a pivotal shift Zambia can experience under his leadership.
He said that his government will focus on empowering local institutions to shape evidence-based policies that reflect Zambia’s unique realities.
Mundubile proposed establishing formal partnerships between government ministries and leading academic and research bodies to foster continuous collaboration and information exchange.
He highlighted the importance of defining national research priorities through joint consultations, ensuring research addresses the country’s most pressing challenges.
To bridge the gap between research and governance, Mundubile plans to organize regular policy forums and workshops, allowing researchers to present findings directly to policymakers.
He also committed to institutionalizing the use of local research evidence in policy development, potentially mandating that new policies be backed by research from Zambian institutions.
Mundible alsao stressed the significance of monitoring and evaluating the impact of these policies, ensuring they remain grounded in local knowledge for more effective and sustainable national development.
By Given Mutinta