Why Tourism Stakeholders Must Support Impactful Research in Zambia

Colorful Zambia text in national flag colors, impactful research in Zambia.

Reimagining Academic Research in Zambia

As I flew back home from Zambia, a question lingered in my mind: what good is academic research if it never reaches the communities it intends to benefit? This thought encapsulated my experience at an OXFAM Fellowship convening in Lusaka, where I had the opportunity to connect with fellow scholars from the Global South, all committed to making a meaningful impact in their research and communities.

Gathering Voices: The Importance of Community Engagement

During our time together, a crucial message resonated from Zambian community leaders: academia's approach can often feel extractive. Scholars frequently visit, gather data, and leave with little given back. The disconnect between research and the lived realities of the communities is stark. Published works languish in paywalled journals, inaccessible to those who need the insights the most.

From Extractivism to Impact: A Call for Change

The reality is that while academic credentials are vital, the impact of research should extend beyond citations. It is imperative to advocate for a reform in the academic incentive structure that values community outcomes as much as high-impact journal publications. Workshops during the fellowship equipped us with tools to translate research into accessible formats—policy briefs, videos, and community discussions—so that our endeavors genuinely benefit those who inspire our work.

The Road Ahead: Bridging Research and Communities

Thanks to the invaluable training from OXFAM and insights from experts like Zambian economist Prof. Grieve Chelwa, I now have fresh perspectives on my role as a scholar. My journey in Zambia has shifted my approach, steering me towards a path that honors the voices of the communities we study. As tourism stakeholders and conscientious travelers, it’s essential that we become advocates for meaningful research practices, enriching both our understanding and the communities we engage with.

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Why Tourism Stakeholders Must Support Impactful Research in Zambia

Reimagining Academic Research in Zambia

Gathering Voices: The Importance of Community Engagement

From Extractivism to Impact: A Call for Change

The Road Ahead: Bridging Research and Communities

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