The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is now accepting applications for the Africa Youth Portal & Research Programme 2027, a fully funded initiative designed to empower emerging African researchers and scholars from across the continent and the diaspora.
The programme combines an intensive one-week research training workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa, with ongoing mentorship to support participants’ academic, professional, and personal development. All travel, accommodation, and meal expenses for the in-person training are fully covered by the project.
The training is scheduled to take place from 22–26 February 2027 (dates to be confirmed).
About the Africa Youth Portal & Research Programme
The SAIIA Africa Youth Portal & Research Programme aims to strengthen the next generation of African researchers by providing practical research skills, policy engagement opportunities, and mentorship from experienced academics and practitioners.
Participants will attend a week-long workshop in Johannesburg, where they will engage in collaborative learning, develop research capacity, and build networks with fellow young scholars from across Africa. Following the workshop, mentors will continue supporting participants as they refine their research and advance their careers.
Programme Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Fully funded travel to and from Johannesburg, South Africa
- Free accommodation throughout the training programme
- All meals during the workshop
- Intensive research and policy training
- One-on-one mentorship from experienced researchers
- Networking opportunities with emerging African scholars
- Professional and personal development support beyond the workshop
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be 18 to 35 years old
- Be a citizen of an African country (including those currently living outside Africa)
- Be currently enrolled in, or have completed within the last year, an Honours, Master’s, or PhD degree in a relevant field
- Have research interests aligned with the thematic focus of the Africa Youth Portal
- Be fluent in English
- Be available to attend the in-person training in Johannesburg during February 2027
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents in PDF format before starting the application:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copy of an ID or passport
- Academic transcript or proof of enrolment
- Recommendation letter
- Proposed research topic
- Writing sample
Because the online form may not save progress, applicants are advised to have all documents ready before beginning.
Training Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | SAIIA Africa Youth Portal & Research Programme 2027 |
| Host | South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) |
| Format | In-person workshop + mentorship |
| Location | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Training Dates | 22–26 February 2027 (TBC) |
| Funding | Travel, accommodation, and meals covered |
Why This Opportunity Matters
Africa needs a new generation of researchers capable of producing evidence-based solutions to the continent’s most pressing policy and development challenges. This programme offers emerging scholars the opportunity to strengthen their research skills while gaining mentorship and exposure to policy-focused research networks.
The combination of funded international training and continued mentorship makes it particularly valuable for Honours, Master’s, and doctoral students seeking careers in academia, public policy, governance, and international affairs.
How to Strengthen Your Application
A competitive application should clearly demonstrate both academic potential and a strong commitment to African policy research.
- Develop a focused and original research topic aligned with Africa Youth Portal themes.
- Submit a polished writing sample showcasing analytical and research abilities.
- Ensure your CV highlights research, publications, conferences, or relevant leadership experience.
- Request a strong recommendation letter from an academic supervisor or lecturer.
- Complete the application in one sitting to avoid losing progress.
Application Process
Interested candidates should complete the official online application form and upload all required PDF documents. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials in advance, as the form typically takes 15–20 minutes to complete and may not save unfinished responses.
