The UbuntuNet Alliance is delighted to spotlight ZAMREN Week 2026, hosted by the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) from 4–8 May 2026 in Livingstone, Zambia – a flagship gathering for the research and education networking community across the region. This week-long event brings together policymakers, academics, ICT professionals, and industry partners to share insights, build capacity, and strengthen collaboration in digital infrastructure, research networking, and higher education innovation. For more details about the programme and participation, visit the ZAMREN Week information page here: insert link to https://zamren.zm/zamren-week-agm-2026/.
Under the inspiring theme “Growing Together”, ZAMREN Week 2026 represents an outstanding platform for stakeholders to accelerate progress in digital connectivity, research enablement, cybersecurity, open science, and institutional growth. This inclusive forum encourages the exchange of best practices, success stories, and innovations that enhance the capabilities of National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) and their member institutions. As a long-standing partner in advancing research and education networking in Eastern and Southern Africa, UbuntuNet Alliance applauds ZAMREN’s commitment to fostering partnership and knowledge-sharing that benefit the broader community.
A highlight of the lead-up to ZAMREN Week is the Call for Papers, now open and inviting contributions from researchers, academics, librarians, policymakers, postgraduate students, and ICT practitioners. Submitted papers will enrich sessions across diverse thematic tracks, including digital infrastructure and connectivity, inclusive access and institutional growth, identity and secure access, capacity building, research enablement and open science, cybersecurity and resilience, partnerships, and governance and innovation. Authors are encouraged to share original research, case studies, technical insights, or policy perspectives that contribute to strengthening research and education networks. Detailed submission guidelines and deadlines can be found in the official Call for Papers document here: https://zamren.zm/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/CALL-FOR-PAPERS-ZAMREN-WEEK-2026-.pdf and on the ZAMREN Week event site.
Important dates to note:
- Call for Papers Opens: 22 January 2026
- Abstract Submission Window: 1–28 February 2026
- Notification of Acceptance: 15 March 2026
- Full Paper Submission Deadline: 15 April 2026
- ZAMREN Week 2026: 4–8 May 2026 in Life and Learning’s historic Livingstone setting.
UbuntuNet Alliance proudly supports ZAMREN’s efforts to galvanize collaboration, research excellence, and digital innovation across the region. We encourage our members, partners, and the regional research and education community to respond to the Call for Papers, register for ZAMREN Week 2026, and join in shaping conversations that will define the future of connected and resilient research and education networks. Together, we are poised to grow stronger, share knowledge, and drive impactful outcomes that benefit institutions and learners across Africa. Registration details can be accessed here: https://events.zamren.zm/event/23/