CONFERENCE THEME
“Pioneering Progress: Leveraging Education, Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Transformative and Resilient Development."
Submit a 350-word abstract by January 31, 2026
The Consortium for International Management, Policy and Development (CIMPAD) is thrilled to announce its 14th international conference, to be held in the vibrant city of Luanda, Angola, at the prestigious Venâncio de Moura Diplomatic Academy (Academy). The conference is being held in partnership with ICCouncil and the Angolan Ministry of External Affairs.
As a non-partisan, non-profit association of organizations and institutions, CIMPAD convenes a biennial international conference in an African country. This event provides a vital forum for professionals in government, academia, private business, and NGOs across the African diaspora to collaborate and advance our shared mission: “To inspire and promote collaborative working relationships toward the advancement of knowledge in public administration, public management, and public policy, among practitioners and academicians, and to enhance capacity building for good governance and sustainable development with civil societies.”
Angola’s history, though shaped by the profound challenges of colonial educational suppression and a devastating civil war that shattered infrastructure, powerfully illustrates its resilient pursuit of “Pioneering Progress: Leveraging Education, Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship for Transformative and Sustainable Development.” Despite a past heavily reliant on natural resources and the significant setbacks to its developmental capacity, the period since 2002 showcases a determined national effort. Angola has actively chosen to rebuild and prioritize these very foundations—investing strategically in education, championing science, technology, and innovation, and vigorously fostering entrepreneurship to diversify its economy and achieve lasting growth, demonstrating remarkable resolve in the face of historical adversity.
This Conference and CALL FOR PAPERS offer a unique opportunity to present cutting-edge research, innovative ideas, and best practices across various fields, including higher education, public health, faith & culture, youth & gender, entrepreneurship, economic development, public innovation, and governance, all crucial for building strong societies.
The 14th International Conference will have a special focus and integration with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the United States. This special invitation from President João Lourenço is intended to build bridges across institutions and establish a platform for sharing lessons learned in developing curriculum and institutional practices to transform societal outcomes.
In addition to the enriching academic program, participants will have the chance to immerse themselves in Angolan culture. Experience the dynamic atmosphere of Luanda, explore its historical sites, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Discover the welcoming hospitality of Angola and all it has to offer.
Tours and Excursions
- Pre-Conference – June 15-16, 2026
- Post-Conference – June 20 -21, 2026
CONFERENCE LOCATION
The Venâncio de Moura Diplomatic Academy (Academy), established in November 2020 by Angolan President João Lourenço, is a state-of-the-art institution dedicated to training skilled professionals in diplomacy and international relations. Constructed with an investment of approximately $16 million, the Academy is a significant asset to Angola’s diplomatic efforts.
Located in the Kilamba centrality on the outskirts of Luanda, the Academy spans ten acres and impressive conference facilities. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Academy seeks to enhance Angola’s capacity for effective diplomacy on the international stage. It is equipped to train up to 1,800 specialists in diplomacy and international relations annually, offering a range of specialized courses at various levels.
The Academy also has a dedicated Language Department, focusing on linguistic proficiency in English, French, and Portuguese, with plans to include other African Union languages, such as Swahili, as well as Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin. This commitment to language training underscores its role in preparing Angolan diplomats for the complexities of 21st-century global interactions.
CALL FOR PAPERS AND WORKSHOP SUBMISSIONS
The Program Committee invites interested persons to submit a 350-word abstract. Abstracts may be submitted by a variety of individuals representing academicians, students, business persons, NGOs, practitioners, clergy and more. All abstracts should be submitted electronically by January 31, 2026, for a paper, a panel, workshop, or a poster presentation that relates to one of the topics in the concurrent track sessions below:
14th International CIMPAD Conference: Tracks
- Track I: Higher Education
Focuses on the pivotal role of higher education institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, in fostering knowledge, capacity building, and social development. - Track II: Public Health Innovation
Highlights cutting-edge advancements in public health, encompassing technological solutions, curriculum development, and essential infrastructure improvements. - Track III: Faith-Based Partnerships & Culture
Examines the role and contributions of various institutions in preserving the culture, spirituality, and history of African diasporic people. This includes faith-based institutions, indigenous/tribal partnerships, and other activities that preserve and honor cultural heritage to build community and advance societal progress. - Track IV: Youth & Gender — Equitable Leadership Development
This section examines actionable approaches and programs that empower young people and women, fostering their capacity for impactful leadership and holistic development. - Track V: Next Generation Entrepreneurship
Emphasizes the critical role of innovation and entrepreneurship, including the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI), in driving economic growth and business enhancement. - Track VI – Economic Diversification
Addresses strategies for economic resilience through diversification across sectors like agriculture and industry, with a focus on climate change adaptation, food security, and transitional workforce development. - Track VII – Public Infrastructure and Innovation
Explores the development, modernization, and innovative approaches to public infrastructure, as well as the policies and practices essential for resilient and self-determined growth and development. - Track VIII – Governance and Conflict Resolution
Examines effective governance models and mechanisms for resolving conflicts peacefully, democratic practice, and community engagement, which are crucial for fostering stable and prosperous societies.
SUBMISSION OF SESSION PROPOSALS
Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit an abstract/session description to present a paper or workshop on a project, program, or policy that may be of shared cultural significance. Submissions should be 350 words or less on any one or combination(s) of the specific themes stated above by 31st January 2026.
Session description should include 1) Session Title, 2) name and title of lead presenter 3) general description and key learning objectives for participants 4) connection to associated themes and the overall theme of the conference 5) additional panel members if relevant 6) materials required (projector,screen etc).
Delegates may submit a maximum of two session proposals. Session proposals should be sent to the Conference Organizers through this form. Questions can be submitted to conference2026@cimpad.org.
MANUSCRIPT GUIDELINES
NOTE:
Delegates submitting accepted papers or proposals for conference presentation have the added benefit of being considered for publication.
Full Paper: For those who would like to be published in the conference proceedings, full papers of accepted abstracts are to be submitted on or before 30th April 2026 for peer review consideration. Papers are to be written in Times Roman 12pt font, 1.5” line-spacing, and justified margins, with the following guidelines:
The paper is to include a title page (title, author(s) name(s), and affiliations), an abstract including five keywords, the main body, a conclusion, and references.
The length of the paper is confined to a range of 4500-6000 words. The title of the paper should be descriptive and concise. Authors are encouraged to avoid long titles. Papers should be divided into subheadings and be paginated. Please ensure proper grammar and spelling prior to submitting your paper.
Note: The national language of Angola is Portuguese, audio of presentations will be interpreted.
REFERENCE STYLE
The reference style required for submission is strictly APA 7th Edition
(https://nursinganswers.net/apa-7/).
Authors are required to follow this style specification consistently.
DEADLINES AND IMPORTANT DATES
- Submission of Abstract: January 31, 2026
- Full paper Submission: 30th April 2026
- Conference Dates: June 17 – 19, 2026
- Tours and Excursions:
- Pre-Conference – June 15-16, 2026
- Post-Conference – June 20 -21, 2026