About this opportunity

The 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship, organised by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), is a 3-month remote capacity-building programme for emerging leaders in the African data governance landscape. Fellowship Structure 1. The 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship will focus on the following thematic areas: Digital Rights Data Sharing Data Value Chain Digital Public Infrastructure Regulatory Interoperability Data Sovereignty 2. Fellowship duration: 3 months (Starting in October, 2026) 3. Institutional Placement: Fellows are expected to engage with a relevant institution within the data and digital policy ecosystem in their country during the fellowship period to disseminate the findings of their fellowship output 4. Mode of delivery: Virtual 5. Commitment: Bi-weekly virtual expert brainstorming sessions 6. Language: English and French Fellowship Benefits A stipend of US$1,500 maximum upon successful completion

Who can apply

The 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship is open to applicants who meet the following minimum criteria:
Hold a postgraduate degree and have at least one year of professional experience in social sciences, law, technology, data policy, or related fields
Be from, and resident in any African country
Be currently working or professionally engaged in data governance, digital policy, Artificial Intelligence, technology, or related areas within any of the following sectors: government institutions; private sector organisations; AI start-ups, including fintech, edtech, healthtech, agritech, and related ventures; research, policy think tanks, universities; and civil society organisations.
Demonstrate an interest in and/or experience in the public sector, data governance, digital policy, and/or technology as an added advantage.
Be willing and able to commit at least 2 hours per week for the duration of the fellowship.
Have access to a reliable internet connection and a functional computer for the duration of the fellowship.

What you get

Fellowship Benefits
A stipend of US$1,500 maximum upon successful completion of the fellowship
Bi-weekly virtual masterclasses and expert sessions with sector leaders
Fellows’ work featured on CSEA’s platforms
Pan-African professional network

How to apply

1
Review eligibility
Check that you meet all criteria before starting your application.
2
Prepare documents
Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, and any required essays or statements.
3
Submit application
Apply directly through the official link below. Deadline: 18 September 2026.