Irene Nyamu

Irene Nyamu has a PhD in Development Studies from the University of the Western Cape (South Africa), an MA in Social Policy for Development from the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Rotterdam University (Netherlands), and a bachelor’s degree in education from Kenyatta University (Kenya). Nyamu is an accomplished a southern childhood studies scholar, a social policy analyst, and child protection expert. Her work focuses on children’s rights, welfare, and protection; social protection; young people's reproductive health rights; gender and inclusive education; disability politics; and transformative social policies in the Global South. Her most recent research explores decolonization of childhood studies, youth in climate action and comparative child welfare policies. She has published journal articles, book chapters, policy briefs, conference papers and research reports. Dr Nyamu applies critical social theories and perspectives including decoloniality, post-colonial theories, and political economy.  She combines 20 years of development practice in the civil societies (CSO) context with empirical and policy research to bridge the divide between policy and practice. Her key strengths are in academic teaching, research, policy analysis, monitoring and evaluation using participatory approaches and applying mixed methods research designs. Having held senior leadership positions, Dr. Nyamu can provide strategic leadership for high level research and policy advisory work, advocacy, negotiations, and coordination of multi-level & multi-partner research and development projects.

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