Deadline: 12-Dec-2025
The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) invites postgraduate youth researchers across Africa to apply for the Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme. This initiative offers mentorship, hands-on policy research training, and the opportunity to publish work on pressing issues such as education, climate change, gender, and youth inclusion. Applications close December 12, 2025.
Overview
The Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme, led by SAIIA, empowers emerging youth researchers across Africa to develop skills in policy research, think tank engagement, and impactful communication. The programme bridges academic research and practical policy influence, helping young leaders shape Africa’s future.
Participants gain practical experience in research, writing, and dissemination, along with mentorship and professional networking opportunities.
Programme Structure
The programme includes:
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In-person Training Workshop: ‘From Academia to the Think Tank: A Young Researcher’s Journey,’ held in Johannesburg, South Africa, 20–25 April 2026 (TBC)
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Ongoing Mentorship: Continuous guidance to support research, career mapping, and professional development
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Publication Opportunity: Participants’ research published on the Africa Youth Portal
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Networking: Connections with peers, experts, and potential employers
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Eligibility for Youth Advisory Committee: Chance to join and influence SAIIA initiatives
Key Focus Areas
Participants will gain skills in:
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Think tank vs. academic research approaches
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Writing short, impactful policy pieces
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Research dissemination and media engagement
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AI and digital tools for research
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Personal branding and career mapping
Thematic research areas include:
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must:
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Be aged 18–35 years
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Be currently enrolled in or have recently completed a postgraduate programme in relevant fields (Political Science, International Relations, Journalism, Development Studies, Sociology, Law, Economics, Science, or Foresight Studies)
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Demonstrate strong interest in policy research and youth development
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Commit to producing a publishable research piece of 800–1000 words by the end of the programme
How to Apply / What to Submit
Applicants must provide:
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Completed application form
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Motivation letter (max. 500 words)
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Curriculum Vitae (CV) (max. 2 pages)
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Academic transcript or proof of enrolment
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Brief research proposal aligned with one of the thematic areas
Submission Deadline: Friday, 12 December 2025
Why It Matters
The programme equips young African researchers with:
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Practical policy research skills applicable to think tanks and international organizations
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Experience in transforming academic research into actionable policy recommendations
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Mentorship from leading experts and access to professional networks
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Opportunities to contribute to continental policy discussions on key issues affecting Africa
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting incomplete applications
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Exceeding word limits for motivation letters or research proposals
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Failing to demonstrate alignment with thematic areas
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Ignoring the age or academic eligibility criteria
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Missing the submission deadline
FAQ
1. Who can apply?
Postgraduate students or recent graduates aged 18–35 in relevant disciplines.
2. What is the duration of the programme?
The main in-person workshop is one week, followed by ongoing mentorship.
3. Are travel and accommodation covered?
Yes, SAIIA covers costs for selected participants.
4. What kind of research output is expected?
An 800–1000 word publishable policy research piece on a chosen thematic area.
5. Is publication guaranteed?
Selected participants will have their work published on the Africa Youth Portal.
6. Can applicants work outside the listed thematic areas?
Research must align with the programme’s focus areas: Education, climate change, gender, armed conflict, youth inclusion, and agency.
7. When is the application deadline?
Friday, 12 December 2025.
Conclusion
The Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme 2026 offers emerging African researchers a unique opportunity to develop critical policy skills, engage with think tanks, and contribute meaningful research to continental challenges. By participating, young leaders can shape Africa’s future, build professional networks, and gain mentorship to advance their careers in policy and research.
For more information, visit SAIIA.