Deadline: 01-Mar-2026
The African Union Commission is inviting applications for its 3rd Cohort of the Digital & Innovation Fellowship Programme. This 12-month immersive programme embeds Africa’s top technical talent within AU institutions to co-develop data-driven, technology-enabled solutions, advancing the AU Digital Transformation Strategy (2020–2030), Agenda 2063, and the 1 Million Next Level Initiative.
Programme Overview
The AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship is designed to accelerate youth-led digital transformation across African Union institutions by embedding highly skilled technical talent directly into public sector projects. Cohort 3 will select 12 fellows for specialized tracks in digital innovation and technology, beginning in April 2026.
Key objectives include:
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Operationalizing the Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa (2020–2030)
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Contributing to the 1 Million Next Level Initiative
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Supporting Agenda 2063’s Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan
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Embedding technical talent in AU Departments and Organs to deliver tangible institutional transformation
Who is Eligible
Applicants must:
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Be citizens of an AU Member State and currently based in Africa
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Be under 35 years old
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Hold a tertiary education degree in a relevant technical field
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Demonstrate problem-solving skills and ability to propose innovative, technology-driven solutions
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Have experience designing or implementing technology products or data-driven projects using relevant tools
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Commit to a 12-month programme, including relocation to Addis Ababa
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Be willing to travel for bootcamps, delegation trips, and other programme activities
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Be proficient in at least one AU official language, with English being strongly recommended
The AU strongly encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities.
Programme Tracks
Cohort 3 seeks junior to mid-level professionals in:
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Data Analytics & Monitoring Systems
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Digital Product & Systems Management
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Digital Communications
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ERP SAP and Business Intelligence
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Full-Stack Development
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HR Digital Systems and Processes Analysis
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Business Analysis
Benefits for Fellows
Selected fellows will:
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Be stationed at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa and other institutional sites
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Receive a monthly stipend, equipment budget, and learning budget
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Participate in interactive bootcamps and mid-term delegation visits
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Gain hands-on experience with AI-driven data analytics, digital communication strategies, and other critical systems
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Build professional networks and gain international exposure while contributing to AU digital transformation
How to Apply
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Confirm Eligibility: Verify citizenship, age, education, technical experience, and availability for a 12-month commitment
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Prepare Application Materials: Include CV, academic transcripts, portfolio of relevant projects, and a statement of interest
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Submit Application: Follow the official AU application portal instructions for Cohort 3
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Selection Process: Applications are reviewed based on technical skills, innovative thinking, and alignment with AU digital initiatives
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Onboarding: Selected fellows relocate to Addis Ababa and engage in bootcamps and initial orientation sessions
Why This Programme Matters
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Bridges the gap between digital policy and institutional transformation within the AU
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Develops Africa’s top technical talent in real-world public sector contexts
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Supports youth-led innovation aligned with Agenda 2063 Moonshot 6, Goal 18
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Provides professional opportunities in Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship, Engagement, and Health
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Contributes to inclusive digital transformation, empowering young professionals and fostering representation for women and persons with disabilities
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying if over 35 years old or not an AU Member State citizen
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Submitting incomplete or irrelevant technical experience or project examples
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Not committing to the 12-month relocation and programme schedule
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Omitting proof of technical competencies or educational qualifications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
African youth under 35, citizens of AU Member States, with relevant technical education and experience.
2. What is the duration of the Fellowship?
12 months, starting April 2026.
3. Where will fellows be based?
AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, with potential travel to other AU institutional sites.
4. What support do fellows receive?
Monthly stipend, equipment budget, learning budget, and professional mentorship.
5. What types of projects will fellows work on?
Data-driven, technology-enabled solutions aligned with AU digital transformation and public sector innovation.
6. Are women and persons with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Yes, the AU strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups.
7. Is international experience required?
Not required, but applicants must be willing to travel for bootcamps and delegation trips.
Conclusion
The AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship Cohort 3 empowers Africa’s brightest young technical minds to drive transformative change within AU institutions.
By embedding youth innovators into digital projects, the programme fosters sustainable public sector innovation, supports Agenda 2063 objectives, and equips fellows with skills, networks, and experience to become Africa’s next-generation digital leaders.
For more information, visit AUC.