The African Union is opening another round of its Digital and Innovation Fellowship for 2026 to 2027. This programme places young African tech professionals inside AU institutions to improve digital systems, data use, and public service delivery.
If you work in technology, data, product development, or digital policy and want to contribute at a continental level, this opportunity is worth serious attention.
The fellowship supports the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy and Agenda 2063. Its aim is to strengthen governance through practical digital solutions designed and implemented by African experts.
What Is the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship?
The African Union Digital and Innovation Fellowship is a fully funded 12 month placement programme. Selected fellows are assigned to departments within AU institutions, where they work on live projects.
Fellows are not external advisers. They are integrated into teams and contribute directly to institutional work. This approach helps ensure that improvements in systems, data management, and digital services remain in place after the fellowship ends.
The 2026 to 2027 cohort will admit 12 fellows across focus areas linked to:
-
Digital transformation in the public sector
-
Data governance and analytics
-
Civic technology and citizen engagement
-
Process improvement within AU institutions
What Fellows Actually Do
Fellows are expected to work on clearly defined assignments within their host departments. Based on past cohorts, responsibilities may include:
Improving Data Systems
Many public institutions struggle with fragmented or outdated data systems. Fellows may:
-
Assess current data workflows
-
Recommend better data collection and storage methods
-
Support dashboard development for internal decision making
-
Introduce data protection practices
Strengthening Digital Public Services
Some placements focus on digital platforms used by citizens or member states. Tasks may include:
-
Reviewing user experience of online tools
-
Supporting development of digital service platforms
-
Testing system performance and security
Institutional Process Review
Digital transformation is not only about software. It also involves how people work. Fellows may:
-
Map internal processes
-
Identify bottlenecks
-
Propose digital tools that improve efficiency
From experience observing similar public sector programmes, hands on exposure to governance systems gives fellows insight that is difficult to gain in private sector roles alone.
Financial Support and Benefits
The fellowship is fully funded to remove financial barriers.
Selected fellows receive:
-
A monthly stipend of 2,500 euros for 12 months
-
Up to 800 euros for equipment support
-
A 500 euro learning budget for professional development
This allows participants to focus on their work without worrying about basic expenses.
The programme also includes:
-
Two in person bootcamps in Addis Ababa
-
A delegation trip to Germany during the programme year
These engagements provide exposure to policy makers, institutional leaders, and international partners.
Fellowship Timeline for 2026 to 2027
The expected schedule is:
-
February 2026: Open positions published
-
March 2026: Application deadline and selection
-
March 2026: Contracting and onboarding
-
April 2026: Four day kick off bootcamp in Addis Ababa
-
April 2026 to March 2027: Institutional placement
-
Summer 2026: Delegation visit to Germany
-
March 2027: Closing bootcamp and graduation
Applicants should monitor official announcements early in the year.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The fellowship is open to young professionals who meet the following conditions:
-
Citizen of an AU member state
-
Currently based in Africa
-
Under 35 years old at the time of application
-
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
-
Experience in digital, data, or technology related projects
-
Willing to relocate to Addis Ababa for 12 months
-
Proficient in at least one AU official language such as Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili. English is considered an advantage.
Women, persons with disabilities, and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship
The process follows a structured format.
Step 1: Review Available Positions
All fellowship roles are published on the official AU job portal. Each listing includes required skills and expected responsibilities.
Read each description carefully. Apply only if your experience matches the role.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Applicants typically need:
-
Updated CV showing relevant digital or data experience
-
National ID or passport
-
Brief description of previous digital projects
Be specific when describing your work. Instead of writing general statements, outline what you built, improved, or managed.
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Applications must be submitted through the official portal. Shortlisted candidates are contacted within a few weeks after the deadline.
Avoid third party websites requesting payment. The fellowship does not charge application fees.
What Makes This Fellowship Different
Many tech fellowships focus on startups or private companies. This programme focuses on public institutions.
Working inside AU structures provides:
-
Direct exposure to continental policy frameworks
-
Experience working with member states
-
Insight into governance challenges across Africa
For professionals interested in digital public infrastructure, e governance, or policy driven innovation, this experience can shape long term career paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AU Digital and Innovation Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. Fellows receive a monthly stipend and additional budgets for equipment and learning.
Do I need years of experience to apply?
You need relevant experience in digital or data related projects. Early career professionals with strong project work are eligible.
Can I apply if I live outside Africa?
Applicants must be based in Africa at the time of application.
Is relocation mandatory?
Yes. Fellows are expected to relocate to Addis Ababa for the duration of the programme.
Where can I apply?
Applications are submitted through the official African Union job portal when positions are announced.
Should You Apply?
If you have experience in data analysis, digital product development, civic tech, software engineering, or public sector technology projects, this fellowship offers structured exposure at continental level.
It suits professionals who want to work within governance systems rather than only in private companies. The experience gained can strengthen future roles in government, international organisations, or digital policy work.
Before applying:
-
Review your technical skills
-
Prepare a clear summary of past projects
-
Ensure you can commit to the full 12 months
Follow official announcements from the African Union early in 2026 and apply within the stated deadline.
For African tech professionals who want to contribute to digital transformation across the continent, this fellowship provides a structured pathway to do so through practical institutional work.
