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World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027

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Fellowship

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Deadline: 25-Aug-2026

The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is inviting applications from young African researchers who are completing or have recently completed a Ph.D. in fields related to international development. Selected fellows will receive a six-month paid assignment as Extended Term Consultants (ETCs) at the World Bank Group in Washington, D.C. or selected country offices, where they will contribute to research, policy development, and development operations.

The fellowship aims to develop the next generation of African development professionals by providing practical experience in research, economic policy, institution building, and poverty reduction initiatives.

World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program Overview

The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program is a professional development initiative designed to identify and support outstanding young African scholars with strong research potential.

The programme provides talented Ph.D. candidates and recent graduates with hands-on experience working alongside World Bank Group experts on projects that address major development challenges across Africa and other regions.

Selected fellows participate in research, policy analysis, lending operations, technical assistance, and knowledge-sharing activities that contribute to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

Purpose of the Africa Fellowship Program

The fellowship seeks to strengthen Africa’s future leadership in development by providing early-career researchers with practical experience in international development institutions.

The programme aims to:

The programme helps participants build careers in organizations that influence economic and social development worldwide.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Africa requires highly skilled researchers and policy professionals who can address complex development challenges through innovative solutions.

The fellowship supports this goal by providing:

The programme helps prepare future leaders for careers in development, government, research, and international organizations.

Programme Focus Areas

The fellowship supports work across multiple development disciplines.

Knowledge Generation and Research

Fellows contribute to:

Research outputs help inform development strategies and public policy.

Economic Policy

Participants may work on projects related to:

These activities support evidence-based economic decision-making.

Inclusive Growth

The programme supports initiatives that promote:

Projects aim to improve development outcomes across diverse communities.

Institution Building

Fellows may contribute to activities involving:

Strong institutions play a key role in long-term development.

Technical Assistance and Lending Operations

Participants may support:

These activities contribute to the World Bank Group’s global development mission.

Programme Structure

Selected fellows receive a six-month assignment with the World Bank Group.

Assignments take place at:

During the fellowship, participants work directly with World Bank professionals on research and operational activities.

Professional Experience

Fellows gain practical experience by contributing to:

The experience helps fellows develop skills relevant to international development careers.

Employment Status

Successful applicants are appointed as:

Extended Term Consultants (ETCs)

Appointments last for six months, beginning in January 2027.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

Academic fields should be relevant to the World Bank Group’s work.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be:

This requirement supports early-career researchers beginning professional careers.

Required Skills

Applicants should demonstrate:

Strong communication and analytical skills are essential for success.

Career Opportunities

The fellowship prepares participants for careers in:

Many fellows continue working in leadership roles across the international development sector.

Selection Process

The fellowship uses a competitive multi-stage selection process.

Step 1: Application Review

Applications are assessed based on:

Only the strongest candidates are shortlisted.

Step 2: Shortlisting

Qualified applicants are shortlisted according to the needs of various World Bank Group units and their areas of expertise.

Step 3: Consultation with World Bank Units

Different departments within the World Bank Group review shortlisted candidates and identify fellows whose expertise matches ongoing research and operational priorities.

Step 4: Final Selection

Selected candidates receive offers to join the programme as Extended Term Consultants for the six-month fellowship beginning in January 2027.

How to Apply for the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship

Interested applicants should prepare a strong application demonstrating academic excellence and research potential.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Applicants should ensure they:

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Applicants should gather all required documents, including:

Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.

Step 3: Highlight Research Experience

Applicants should clearly describe:

Strong research experience strengthens the application.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Applicants should complete and submit the application according to the official programme guidelines before the deadline.

Common Application Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

Why This Fellowship Matters

The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship helps build Africa’s future development leadership by connecting outstanding young researchers with one of the world’s leading development institutions.

The programme contributes to:

It also creates opportunities for African scholars to influence development policies at national, regional, and global levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program?

It is a professional development programme that provides six-month assignments for talented young African researchers at the World Bank Group to gain practical experience in development research, policy, and operations.

Who can apply?

African nationals who are in the final year of their Ph.D. programme or who completed their Ph.D. within the past three years in fields relevant to the World Bank Group’s work may apply.

How long does the fellowship last?

The fellowship lasts six months, beginning in January 2027.

Where will fellows work?

Selected fellows will be assigned to World Bank Group offices in Washington, D.C. or selected country offices.

What position do selected fellows receive?

Successful applicants are appointed as Extended Term Consultants (ETCs) for the duration of the fellowship.

What skills are required?

Applicants should demonstrate excellent written and spoken English, strong quantitative and analytical abilities, and a solid academic research background.

What is the age limit?

Applicants must be 32 years old or younger as of January 1, 2027.

Conclusion

The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 offers an outstanding opportunity for young African researchers to gain international experience in development policy, research, and operations while working with one of the world’s leading development institutions.

Through hands-on assignments, professional mentoring, and exposure to global development challenges, the fellowship prepares the next generation of African leaders to contribute to poverty reduction, inclusive growth, institutional development, and evidence-based policymaking across Africa and beyond.

For more information, visit World Bank Group.

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