Copper Rose Zambia (CRZ) is honored to celebrate a major milestone in our journey of empowering young people across Zambia, the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Lusaka Apex Medical University (LAMU).
This partnership represents more than a formal agreement; it is a powerful convergence of academic excellence and community‑driven action. Together, we reaffirm our shared belief that when universities and civil society collaborate with purpose, they can transform lives and shape the future of our nation.
During the signing ceremony, CRZ Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Natasha Salifyanji Kaoma, emphasized that this partnership deepens the organization’s founding mission: empowering young people to live healthy, dignified, and fulfilled lives.
Over the years, CRZ has championed health and well-being, gender equity, leadership development, and youth innovation. This new collaboration with LAMU strengthens these pillars even further, opening doors for meaningful participation of young researchers in Zambia’s development.
“This partnership is for the youth we serve; it is designed to open doors, amplify their voices, and unlock the incredible potential they carry.” Dr. Natasha affirmed.
Representing LAMU, Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Modest Mulenga, welcomed the CRZ team and emphasized that this collaboration is timely and aligned with the national health agenda. He highlighted LAMU’s three institutional pillars: Health Education, Research & Innovation, and Community Service
He noted that partnering with CRZ will strengthen these pillars, expand opportunities for students, and enhance the University’s contribution to national development.
Additionally, the acting Director of Research and Global Health Studies, Professor Godfrey Biemba, commended the partnership, noting that the MOU aligns perfectly with the University’s core mandate of mentoring young researchers and linking them to real-world industry knowledge.
The MOU highlighted five core components of the partnership:
1. Joint Research Collaborations
The MOU creates a platform for co-designed research projects that respond to real health and social challenges across Zambia. By leveraging shared data, community insights, and academic rigor, both institutions will generate evidence that strengthens policies and programs.
2. Fellowship & Capacity Building for Early‑Career Researchers
CRZ and LAMU will establish a capacity‑building fellowship to nurture emerging researchers, equipping them with the skills, networks, and mentorship required to thrive.
3. Co‑Supervision of Research Projects
The partnership ensures that student projects are academically rigorous, ethically sound, and grounded in the lived experiences of young people.
4. Innovation & Digital Technology
Both institutions will collaborate on digital tools for data collection, analysis, and program delivery, enhancing transparency, accountability, and real-time learning.
5. Long‑Term Mentorship
Beyond formal training, fellows will benefit from continuous mentorship that strengthens their confidence, professional networks, and long-term career pathways.
CRZ is proud to partner with Lusaka Apex Medical University, an institution committed to strengthening Zambia’s health systems, advancing research, and building capable professionals.
