Are you a high school student in Pakistan passionate about economics, public policy, or development issues? The CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme 2026 offers a great chance to build research skills before university. This four-week summer program by the Consortium for Development Policy Research helps pre-university students gain hands-on experience in policy analysis and writing.
About the CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme
This program introduces young students to the world of policy research. It guides participants through every step, from picking a policy topic to creating a full policy brief. You will work with experts on real issues in Pakistan’s economy and governance.
The training covers research methods, data analysis, critical thinking, and clear writing. By the end, you will understand how policies shape development. It is perfect for building a strong profile for university applications at home or abroad.
Programme Duration
The program runs for four weeks from June 30 to July 23, 2026. This short, intense schedule fits well into summer breaks. You will get full focus on learning without missing school time.
Skills You Will Gain
Participants learn practical tools for research and policy work. Here is what the program teaches:
- Spot key policy questions: Find important issues in development and governance.
- Do evidence-based research: Gather and use real data to support ideas.
- Analyze challenges: Break down economic and policy problems in Pakistan.
- Build analytical skills: Think critically about solutions.
- Write policy briefs: Create clear, structured reports ready for publication.
- Learn research methods: Understand how studies work in policy.
- Present evidence: Share findings in a strong way.
- Tackle real issues: Connect with public policy in action.
These skills help with university essays, scholarships, and future jobs.
Key Benefits for Students
Joining this program gives big advantages. First, it boosts your academic profile with real research experience. Universities value this early work.
Second, you get a publishable policy brief to show off. This stands out in applications. Third, expert mentors guide you, sharing tips from their careers.
You also improve writing and thinking skills. Plus, learn about Pakistan’s key challenges like economy and governance. It prepares you for studies in economics or policy.
Who Should Apply
This is for pre-college students ready for university. High schoolers interested in economics, public policy, governance, or development fit best. If you want research experience or aim for top schools in Pakistan or abroad, apply.
Ideal candidates show curiosity and drive. They care about solving real problems.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
You need to be in school and heading to university soon. Submit these:
- Your latest school transcript.
- A 300-word cover letter. Answer: Why this program? What policy issue excites you? How will you use the skills?
Show your interest and skills in the letter. Applications are online.
Important Dates
Mark these on your calendar:
- Applications open: May 1, 2026
- Applications close: June 15, 2026
- Decisions: Mid-June 2026
- Program: June 30 to July 23, 2026
Apply soon to stay ahead.
For details and to apply, visit the CDPR website. This program turns summer into a launchpad for your future in policy and research.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CDPR Young Policy Scholar Programme?
It is a four-week summer program for high school students in Pakistan that teaches policy research, data analysis, critical thinking, and writing skills on real issues in economy and governance.
When does the 2026 program take place?
The program runs from June 30 to July 23, 2026, fitting perfectly into summer breaks.
Who is eligible to apply?
Pre-university high school students passionate about economics, public policy, governance, or development issues in Pakistan, especially those aiming for top universities.
What do I need to apply?
Submit your latest school transcript and a 300-word cover letter explaining why you want to join, a policy issue that excites you, and how you will use the skills.
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