INTRODUCTION

Zambia National Educational Coalition (ZANEC) is an umbrella body for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that include Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Faith Based Organizations (FBOs), Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Teacher Trade Unions (TTUs) and Students Unions. ZANEC currently has 93 members. ZANEC envisages a quality national education system that is accessible, relevant and equitable for all in Zambia.

One of ZANEC’s goals is to advocate for the provision of quality and equitable education through the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal number four.  In its quest to promote critical thinking and research skills among university and college students in the country, ZANEC with the help of SAIH has since 2018 successfully supported students to conduct research on topical issues. The research findings have helped enhance evidence-based advocacy work in institutions of higher learning.

It is from this background that ZANEC would like to engage the services of a professional to mentor the successful candidates for the 2026 Student research.

Purpose of the assignment.

The main aim of this activity is to capacity bu students with research skills as well as promote and enhance their critical thinking skills 

Specific objective

The specific objectives of the task is to:

i       Promote critical thinking as an exercise of academic freedom in institutions of higher learning; and

ii      Contribute to enhanced quality learning outcomes.

Scope of the Consultancy

The Consultant will be expected to mentor 10 students on how to conduct and complete academic-style research.

Specifically, the consultant is expected to do the following:

Ø Review and provide feedback on research proposals developed by students.

Ø conduct a research orientation workshop for the selected students

Ø Assist the students in refining their research questions, objectives, and hypotheses.

Ø Guide the students in selecting appropriate research methodologies and data collection techniques.

Ø Provide resources, literature recommendations, and access to academic databases.

Ø Conducte regular meetings with students to monitor progress, address challenges, and provide guidance.

Ø Review draft chapters, analyses, and research outputs, offering constructive feedback for improvement.

Ø Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and research protocols.

Ø Assist students in preparing presentations, posters, and manuscripts for dissemination.

Ø Participate in dissemination platforms for the students’ research findings.

SPECIFIC DELIVERABLES 

    i.       Written recommendations for approval of proposed student research;

   ii.       Report on the induction session with the students

 iii.       Mentors’ overall process report to ZANEC

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Ø Must be a lecturer / Researcher in a Higher Institution of Learning

Ø Must hold a minimum of a Master’s Degree.

Ø Demonstrated experience in research supervision and academic mentorship.

Ø Strong understanding of research methodologies, ethical standards, and academic writing.

Ø Excellent communication and facilitation skills.

Ø Female consultants are encouraged to apply.

All Expressions of Interest must be submitted by email to the address below by Friday, 12th March 2026.

The Executive Director,

Zambia National Education Coalition,

Plot 125/90A Mufufuma Road,

Jesmondine

P.O. Box 30774,

Lusaka-Zambia,

Email: admin@zanec.org.zm                  

Cc: za2002nec@gmail.com