CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme 2026 in Pakistan: Research Opportunity for Pre-University Students Interested in Economics and Public Policy
Applications are now open for the CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme 2026, an exciting pre-university research programme in Pakistan designed for ambitious students who want to develop strong research, analytical, and policy-writing skills before starting university.
Organized by the Consortium for Development Policy Research (CDPR), the four-week programme offers students practical exposure to evidence-based policy research while helping them build competitive academic profiles for university admissions in Pakistan and abroad.
The programme is especially suitable for students interested in economics, public policy, governance, and development studies. Participants will learn how to conduct policy research, analyze development issues, and produce a publishable policy brief under expert mentorship.
For students looking to make productive use of their summer vacations while gaining valuable academic and professional skills, this programme presents an excellent opportunity.
About the CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme
The Young Policy Scholar Programme is a structured research training initiative aimed at introducing pre-college students to the full lifecycle of policy research.
Participants will move step-by-step through the research process, beginning with identifying a policy issue and eventually producing their own policy brief based on evidence and analysis.
The programme combines:
- Research training
- Policy analysis
- Academic writing
- Mentorship
- Critical thinking
- Evidence-based learning
Students will also gain insight into major economic and governance challenges facing Pakistan and learn how policy decisions impact development outcomes.
Programme Duration
The programme will run for four weeks:
- Start Date: 30 June 2026
- End Date: 23 July 2026
This intensive summer programme is designed to maximize learning and hands-on engagement within a short period.
What Participants Will Learn
The programme is designed to equip students with practical academic and research skills that are highly valuable for university applications and future careers.
Participants Will Learn How To:
- Identify important policy and development questions
- Conduct evidence-based policy research
- Analyze economic and governance challenges
- Develop research and analytical thinking skills
- Write structured policy briefs
- Understand research methodologies
- Present evidence clearly and effectively
- Engage with real-world public policy issues
Why Students Should Apply
The programme offers several major benefits for students preparing for university and future academic or professional careers.
Key Benefits of the Programme
1. Build a Strong Academic Profile
Students can strengthen their university applications with practical research experience and policy-writing credentials.
2. Gain Research Experience Early
The programme introduces participants to university-level research processes before entering higher education.
3. Develop Writing and Analytical Skills
Participants improve critical thinking, structured writing, and evidence-based reasoning skills.
4. Produce a Publishable Policy Brief
One of the biggest highlights of the programme is the opportunity to produce a publishable policy brief, which can significantly strengthen a student’s portfolio.
5. Receive Expert Mentorship
Students will learn directly from experienced professionals and researchers working in development and public policy.
6. Understand Pakistan’s Development Challenges
Participants gain deeper insight into Pakistan’s economy, governance systems, and public policy environment.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is ideal for:
- Pre-college students
- High school students
- Students preparing for university applications
- Young learners interested in economics and development
- Students curious about governance and public policy
- Students seeking research credentials for academic advancement
Eligibility and Ideal Candidate Profile
CDPR encourages applications from ambitious students who are eager to learn and grow academically.
Ideal applicants are students who:
- Are currently in school and preparing for university
- Want to study abroad or at leading Pakistani universities
- Are interested in economics, governance, development, or policymaking
- Want hands-on research experience
- Are motivated to improve their academic and professional profile
Application Requirements
Applicants must complete the online application form and submit the required supporting documents.
Required Documents
1. Most Recent School Transcript
Applicants must submit their latest academic transcript or school record.
2. Cover Letter (300 Words)
The cover letter should answer the following questions:
- Why are you interested in this programme?
- What development or policy problem interests you most, and why?
- What do you hope to do with the skills you gain?
The cover letter is an important component of the application and should demonstrate motivation, curiosity, and strong communication skills.
Click here for more and to apply
Important Dates
Applicants should carefully note the programme timeline.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: 1 May 2026
- Applications Close: 15 June 2026
- Decisions Announced: Mid-June 2026
- Programme Duration: 30 June – 23 July 2026
Students are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Research skills are becoming increasingly important for university admissions, scholarships, and future careers.
The CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme gives students an early introduction to academic research and evidence-based policymaking, helping them stand out in competitive academic environments.
For students interested in solving real-world problems, understanding development challenges, and preparing for future leadership roles, this programme provides a valuable starting point.
Final Thoughts
The CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme 2026 is an excellent summer opportunity for ambitious students in Pakistan who want to strengthen their academic profile while gaining practical research and policy-writing experience.
With expert mentorship, hands-on learning, and the opportunity to produce a publishable policy brief, the programme equips students with skills that can benefit them throughout their academic and professional journey.
Students interested in economics, public policy, development, and governance should strongly consider applying before the application deadline.
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