Call for Applications: Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme
The Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme is a capacity-building initiative organized by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) to support emerging postgraduate researchers across Africa in transitioning from academic study into applied policy and think-tank work. The programme begins with a week-long intensive in-person training workshop titled “From Academia to the Think Tank: A Young Researcher’s Journey”, followed by ongoing mentorship to guide participants’ professional and personal growth as early-career researchers.
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Twenty selected participants aged 18–35, who are currently enrolled in or have recently completed postgraduate studies in fields such as political science, international relations, journalism, development studies, sociology, law, economics, science, or foresight studies, will be equipped with practical research skills, exposure to policy environments, and access to a growing professional network. Training sessions will focus on key areas including differences between academic and think-tank research, drafting concise policy briefs, research dissemination and media engagement, the use of AI and digital research tools, personal branding and career mapping, and thematic policy research on education, climate change, gender, armed conflict, and youth inclusion and agency. Participants will be expected to develop a publishable research article of approximately 800–1000 words, with selected outputs showcased on the newly rebranded Africa Youth Portal, a platform dedicated to youth-led research and policy engagement across the continent.
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1. Youth Opportunities: https://m.me/j/AbZTmgEzD1UchDte/
2. Fully Funded Conferences: https://m.me/j/AbZTfhFTiPCnXf2D/
3. Full Scholarships: https://m.me/j/AbbrjbkOMM6I68Cs/
4. Paid Internships/Jobs: https://m.me/j/AbaAskb6jFFnRser/
5. Circle: https://m.me/j/AbY0vVKSPJULUnE4/
The programme provides comprehensive support by covering travel and accommodation expenses for the in-person training, as well as offering hands-on mentorship by experienced researchers, opportunities for publication, and professional networking with peers, experts, and potential employers. Graduates may also become eligible to join the Youth Advisory Committee, enabling further policy involvement and leadership pathways. Applications require submission of a completed form, a motivation letter (maximum 500 words), a concise curriculum vitae (up to two pages), academic transcripts or proof of enrollment, and a short research proposal aligned with one of the programme’s thematic priority areas.
Location:
South AfricaBenefits
- Mentorship from experienced researchers
- Training in research writing, media engagement and digital tools
- Opportunity to publish on the Africa Youth Portal
- Networking with peers, experts and potential employers
- Eligibility to join the Youth Advisory Committee
Eligibilities
- Be aged between 18 and 35 years.
- Be currently enrolled in or have recently completed a postgraduate programme (Honours, Masters or PhD).
- Be studying or have studied one of the following fields: Political science, international relations, journalism, development studies, sociology, law, economics, science or foresight studies.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in policy research and youth development.
- Be available to participate for the full duration of the training workshop and in subsequent engagements and programmes.
- Commit to producing a publishable research piece (800–1000 words) by the end of the programme.
Application Process
- A completed application form
- A short motivation letter (max 500 words)
- CV (max 2 pages)
- Academic transcript or proof of enrolment
- A brief research proposal (max 1 page) aligned with one of the thematic areas
Application Deadline: December 12, 2025 (2 Days Remaining)
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