Zimbabwean peace scholar Garikai Muchemwa says his academic journey has taken a significant leap forward after being selected for a prestigious international writing programme for early-career researchers from the Global South.
Muchemwa, who recently completed a PhD in Public Administration (Peace Studies), attended the International Writing Workshop for Early Career Researchers in Peace and Humanitarian Studies held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from April 8 to 10, 2026.
He described the experience as transformative.
“The workshop was truly inspiring. It brought together a diverse cohort of scholars and professors and created a collaborative space for deep reflection and growth. I am proud to have represented Zimbabwe at such a high-level platform,” he said.
Initially expecting a focus on academic writing skills, Muchemwa said the programme exceeded expectations by blending conceptual depth with practical publishing guidance.
“Beyond writing, the sessions explored the intersection between peace, conflict, and humanitarian studies, helping us better understand conflict dynamics alongside humanitarian needs. It also tackled key publishing challenges faced by Global South scholars, including how to select appropriate journals,” he said.
An already published academic, Muchemwa noted that the training reframed publishing as a deliberate, strategic process rather than a last-minute effort.
“We were given practical tools for structuring and refining journal articles and book chapters, as well as insights into contributing to edited volumes. One session stood out for demystifying editorial decision-making,” he added.
Participants also engaged directly with an associate editor from the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development, gaining valuable insight into what editors consider strong and impactful research.
“That interaction helped me understand how quality is assessed beyond just academic references,” Muchemwa said.
His participation was fully sponsored by the British Academy, for which he expressed gratitude, calling for continued investment in African scholarship.
“Our research matters, and our voices must be amplified through the right publishing platforms,” he said.
Beyond academics, Muchemwa said the experience was enriched by visits to some of Rio’s iconic landmarks, which broadened his perspective and reinforced his vision as a scholar.
“I encourage other early-career researchers to keep applying for such opportunities. Persistence is just as important as talent. Structured mentorship and editorial training can transform not only how scholars write, but how they approach publishing,” he said.
Muchemwa’s selection carries national significance, as he was one of only two Zimbabwean scholars chosen from a highly competitive pool of 370 applicants, with just 21 participants selected.
The other Zimbabwean delegate, Dr Bathromeu Mavhura, holds a PhD in Armed Conflict and Counterterrorism and is currently a postdoctoral research fellow at North-West University.
Muchemwa said the competitive selection reflects both the growing recognition of Global South scholarship and the responsibility to contribute meaningfully to global discourse.
For Zimbabwean readers, his experience highlights the importance of mentorship and editorial support in transforming doctoral research into impactful publications.
“Scholarship is not just about producing research—it is about communicating it effectively through clear arguments, strong writing, and strategic submission,” he said.