The African Union Commission (AUC) is pleased to announce the official launch of the call for applications for the 3rd Cohort of the AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship Programme. This flagship initiative forms a cornerstone of the AU’s commitment to youth-led digital transformation, directly contributing to the 1 Million Next Level Initiative Initiative and the implementation of Agenda 2063’s Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan. The Fellowship operationalizes the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020-2030) by embedding technical talent directly within Departments and Organs.

Launched in 2021, the fellowship is a 12-month immersive programme that selects Africa’s brightest technical minds to co-develop data-driven and technology-enabled solutions within AU institutions. Following the successful completion of Cohort 2 - which delivered transformative digital integrations across multiple departments, Cohort 3 will select 12 highly skilled fellows to lead 12 specialized technical tracks starting in April 2026.

Driving Moonshot 6 and the 1 Million Next Level Initiative

The Fellowship aligns with Agenda 2063 Moonshot 6, Goal 18, which envisions an “Empowered and Productive African Citizenry.” By embedding young innovators within the public sector, the programme bridges the gap between digital policy and tangible institutional transformation. Furthermore, it supports the 1 Million Next Level initiative under the Youth Division (Women, Gender and Youth Directorate), African Union Commission, by providing high-value professional opportunities in the 4Es+H (Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship, Engagement and Health).

"The AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship is not just a professional opportunity; it is a call to service for African youth to 'Code for the Continent'. By placing talent at the heart of our digital backbone, we are ensuring that Africa’s governance is data-driven, citizen-centered and ready for the future," said the Director of the Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (WGYD).

Fellowship Highlights & Support

The selected 12 fellows will be stationed at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa and other institutional sites across the continent. Key benefits include:

  • Financial Support: A monthly stipend, an equipment budget and a learning budget.
  • International Exposure: Participation in interactive bootcamps and a mid-term delegation visit.
  • Institutional Impact: Hands-on experience working on critical systems, including AI-driven data analytics and digital communication strategies.

Open Technical Tracks for Cohort 3

The programme is seeking junior to mid-level professionals for roles including:

  • Data Analytics & Monitoring Systems
  • Digital Product & Systems Management
  • Digital Communications
  • ERP SAP and Business Intelligence
  • Full-Stack Development
  • HR Digital Systems and Processes Analysis
  • Business Analysis

How to Apply

Applications are open to citizens of AU Member States under the age of 35 with a degree in a relevant technical field. The AU is committed to gender equity and strongly encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities.

 

The AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship 2026/2027 is developed and hosted by the African Union, implemented in partnership with Enpact and supported by the GIZ DataCipation programme, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

#AUDigitalFellowship #1mNextLevel #Agenda2063 #DigitalAfrica

For further information, please contact: 

Mr. Mohamed Kimbugwe | Digital Governance and Innovation Advisor, Women, Gender and Youth Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: KimbugweM@AfricaUnion.org

Mr. Natan Addisu Tafese | Innovation Associate, Women, Gender and Youth Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: NatanA@AfricaUnion.org

For media inquiries, please contact: 
Ms. Adele Onguene Atangana | Communications Associate, Women, Gender and Youth Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: AtanganaA@AfricanUnion.org