Are you ready to shape the future of Africa through research and innovation? The African Centre for Social and Population Research (ACSPR) is calling on the next generation of African leaders to join the 2026 ACSPR Research & Innovation Fellowship Programme (ACSPR-RIF). But here’s where it gets exciting: this isn’t your typical fellowship. It’s a six-month, part-time journey designed to transform early-to-mid-career professionals into change-makers who can turn evidence into action. And this is the part most people miss—fellows don’t just learn; they do. You’ll work on real ACSPR programs, produce tangible outputs, and contribute to impactful solutions across Africa.
Programme Details
- Duration: March–August 2026
- Time Commitment: 8–12 hours per week (part-time)
- Application Deadline: 28 February 2026
About ACSPR
ACSPR is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to advancing the understanding of population dynamics and social change across Africa. Through rigorous, interdisciplinary research, ACSPR collaborates with governments, civil society, academia, and communities to strengthen policies and improve outcomes, especially for vulnerable and marginalized groups. But here’s where it gets controversial: How can research truly drive change without addressing power imbalances in policy-making? We invite you to ponder this as you explore our work.
Key Focus Areas
ACSPR’s work spans six critical areas:
1. Population and Demographic Research
2. Education and Skills Development
3. Health and Well-being
4. AI, Data, and Digital Governance
5. Climate, People, and Planet
6. Humanitarian Response and Resilience
About the Fellowship
This fellowship is more than training—it’s a mentored, hands-on experience. Fellows dive into ACSPR’s programs, developing research or innovation outputs aligned with our thematic priorities. And this is the part most people miss: You’ll not only gain skills but also build a portfolio that showcases your ability to tackle real-world challenges.
Core Seminars
All fellows participate in seminars covering:
- Research ethics and safeguarding
- Research in African contexts
- Evidence-based programming
- Data literacy
- Knowledge translation
Fellowship Tracks
Applicants choose one primary track (with an optional second choice):
Research & Policy Track
Focus: Applied research, policy engagement, and evidence translation.
Outputs: Research tools, policy briefs, report sections, stakeholder engagement materials.Data & AI Track
Focus: Data analysis, visualization, and responsible AI for development.
Outputs: Cleaned datasets, analysis memos, dashboards, data/AI ethics notes.Communications & Knowledge Translation Track
Focus: Public-facing writing, storytelling, and evidence packaging.
Outputs: Blogs, infographics, dissemination plans.Operations & Partnerships Track
Focus: Programme coordination and stakeholder engagement.
Outputs: Stakeholder maps, coordination trackers, proposal components.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be an African citizen residing on the continent.
- Show interest in social research, public policy, health, education, climate, humanitarian response, or digital governance.
- Be an early-career professional, final-year undergraduate, postgraduate student, or recent graduate (preferred).
- Submit a 500-word concept note aligned with an ACSPR focus area.
- Be proficient in English.
- Have reliable internet access and a computer.
- Commit 8–12 hours weekly.
What Fellows Will Gain
- Practical training in research, data, policy, and innovation.
- Mentorship from ACSPR experts.
- Contribution to real programs and potential publications.
- Access to tools, templates, and resources.
- Opportunity to publish a blog or commentary article.
- Showcase work via ACSPR platforms.
- Membership in a growing alumni network.
Note: Stipends or research support are subject to funding and will be communicated to selected fellows.
Application Package
Submit one PDF containing:
1. Completed application form.
2. CV (2–3 pages).
3. Motivation statement (500–800 words).
4. Concept note (500 words).
5. Two referees’ details.
6. Optional portfolio, writing sample, or code sample.
Key Dates
- Call opens: 10 February 2026
- Deadline: 28 February 2026
- Shortlisting/Interviews: 2–5 March 2026
- Results: 10–12 March 2026
- Fellowship starts: 16 March 2026
- Fellowship ends: August 2026
Equal Opportunity Statement
ACSPR is committed to diversity. We welcome applicants regardless of gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, or background. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are we doing enough to ensure marginalized voices are not just included but amplified? We encourage women, persons with disabilities, refugees, and marginalized individuals to apply and join this discussion.
Apply Now
APPLY HERE
Stay Connected
For more opportunities, follow us on:
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- Twitter
- LinkedIn
- Telegram
Disclaimer
Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not affiliated with this fellowship. For inquiries, contact ACSPR directly. Do not send applications to GSO. Due to high volumes, we may not respond to all inquiries. Thank you for understanding.
Final Thought: Africa’s future is being written today—will you be part of the story? Apply now and let’s debate: How can research fellowships like this truly empower African leaders to drive systemic change? Share your thoughts in the comments!
