2026 African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program

Job Description

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Applications are now open for the 2026 African Union (AU) Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program, a 12-month immersive program designed to empower Africa’s brightest digital innovators to work directly within AU institutions. The fellowship enables participants to co-develop data-driven and technology-enabled solutions with AU staff, strengthening governance, public service delivery, and institutional capacity across the continent.

Launched in 2021, this fellowship supports the implementation of the AU Digital Transformation Strategy and Agenda 2063, creating opportunities for African youth to actively contribute to continental governance and public sector innovation.

Fellowship Overview

• Duration: 12 months
• Start Date: April 2026
• Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Cohort Size: 12 fellows per cohort
• Focus: Digital transformation, technology, data innovation, and public sector improvement

As a fellow, you will analyze AU systems, identify challenges, and collaborate with AU staff to design solutions that enhance data management, streamline operations, and improve citizen engagement.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship: Be a citizen of an African Union member state and currently based in Africa
• Age: Under 35 years old at the time of application
• Education: Hold a tertiary degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent)
• Skills & Experience:
  • Demonstrate problem-solving skills and the ability to propose innovative, technology-driven solutions
  • Experience in designing or implementing technology products or data-driven projects
  • Familiarity with relevant technical tools or stacks
• Commitment: Able to commit 12 months to the fellowship, including relocation to Addis Ababa
• Language: Proficient in English; proficiency in other AU official languages (Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili) is strongly encouraged
• Inclusivity: Women, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups are actively encouraged to apply

Fellowship Benefits

Financial Support

• Monthly stipend of €2,500 to cover living and professional expenses
• In-kind equipment budget up to €800 for tools and work resources
• Individual learning budget of €500 for skills development

Professional Development

• Structured capacity-building training and mentorship from innovation and tech experts
• Peer-to-peer learning with continental and global stakeholders

Institutional Experience

• Placement within AU departments to co-develop technology and data solutions
• Practical involvement in real governance and digital transformation projects

Networking & Exposure

• All-expense-paid bootcamps in Addis Ababa
• Delegation trip to Germany for international exposure
• Access to a continental ecosystem of policymakers, tech leaders, and innovation partners

Alumni Recognition

• Certificate and alumni status to enhance career opportunities

Application Process

1. Explore Open Fellowship Positions: Review available positions on the AU Job Postings page to identify roles matching your skills and interests.
2. Check Focus Areas & Requirements: Ensure your profile aligns with the focus areas and expectations of the specific fellowship role.
3. Prepare Application Materials: Submit a current CV, a scan of your national ID or passport, and a brief of previous digital projects (if available).
4. Complete Application Form: Submit applications through the Job Postings page. Incomplete or external submissions will not be considered.
5. Check Your E-mail: Shortlisted candidates will be notified via email within three weeks and may be invited for interviews.

Program Timeline

• January 2026: Fellowship positions open
• February 2026: Applications close; selection process begins
• March 2026: Contracting and onboarding
• April 2026: 4-day kick-off bootcamp in Addis Ababa
• April 2026 – March 2027: Placement and financial support
• Summer 2026: Delegation trip to Germany
• March 2027: Sustainability bootcamp and graduation

The African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship provides a fully funded, high-impact opportunity for Africa’s young innovators to develop skills, gain international exposure, and drive transformative digital solutions within AU institutions.