Africa's Data Future Fellowship 2026: remote programme with a USD 1,500 stipend

What is the fellowship?

The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) runs Africa's Data Future Fellowship as a three-month remote capacity-building programme for emerging leaders in African data governance. The themes are digital rights, data sharing, the data value chain, digital public infrastructure, regulatory interoperability and data sovereignty.

Who can apply?

Applicants must be from and resident in an African country, hold a postgraduate degree and have at least 1 year of professional experience in the social sciences, law, technology, data policy or a related field. They also need to be working or professionally engaged in data governance, digital policy, artificial intelligence or technology, and able to commit at least two hours a week with a reliable internet connection.

What do fellows receive?

Ten fellows are selected across the continent. Each receives a stipend of up to USD 1,500 on successful completion, joins bi-weekly virtual masterclasses with sector leaders, has their work featured on the organiser's platforms and enters a pan-African professional network. Fellows are also expected to engage with an institution in their country's data and digital policy ecosystem.

What is required at the end?

Every fellow writes a detailed policy brief and a blog post on one of the themes and presents the findings at a dedicated workshop.

How and when to apply

Applications are submitted through the online system in English and include a form, a two-page CV, a statement of interest, a problem statement on a data governance challenge in your sub-region and a writing sample. The deadline is 18 September 2026.