“If someone could see my application documents to EARTH, they’d see that what I wanted most was to get an education so I could return home and work for rural communities,” shares Armand Yambisa (Class of 2020, Zambia), an EARTH University graduate and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni. Staying true to that commitment, Armand trained as an Agricultural Engineer at EARTH and now works as an associate researcher at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Zambia. There, he leads efforts to develop soybean varieties that are resistant to pests, diseases, and climate-related stress.
While studying at EARTH, Armand witnessed firsthand the impact one pest can have on rural life: a butterfly species was destroying crops in his community in Zambia. That experience gave direction to his academic journey and sparked a strong interest in entomology. For his Graduation Project, he researched the Effects of Ferromagnetic Minerals on Plant Growth and Soil Remineralization, aiming to combat soil degradation and enhance food security. From the beginning of his career, Armand understood that to be a well-rounded professional who truly responds to the needs of his community, it was essential to understand and protect the natural environment and the resources that sustain life.
After graduating Armand returned to Zambia. In 2022 he was selected to join the Mastercard Foundation – EARTH University Fellowship Program, an initiative that supports recent graduates in their transition to employment and entrepreneurship. He chose the Agricultural Innovation through Science and Research track, the area that had most inspired him during his studies. That opportunity led him to the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), where he began as a Mastercard Foundation – EARTH University Fellow and now serves as an official member of the research team.
In just two years, Armand’s team has introduced more than six new soybean varieties in Zambia, as well as others in Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Malawi. They have also collaborated with over 3,000 smallholder farmers, delivering knowledge, technical support, and new opportunities directly to the field. Armand now also has the opportunity to welcome other EARTH graduates and work alongside them, sharing knowledge in an inclusive and collaborative way. Mutinta Mubita (Class of 2023, Zambia), a current Mastercard Foundation – EARTH University Fellow, is working under Armand’s supervision. Together, they are exploring solutions to challenges such as climate change, production gaps, and improving seed banks systems.
Armand’s dream doesn’t stop there, his goal is to purchase land and establish an agricultural research center that is accessible to rural farmers—a space where they can learn, share knowledge, and discover practical solutions to challenges in the sector. “Many produce but earn little. I want to give back what I’ve learned, to help them improve their practices—especially in soil health and pest management,” Armand explains. To him, science and research are bridges that connect cultures, expand knowledge, and create pathways to more hopeful futures.