The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is calling on passionate postgraduate scholars from across Africa to apply for the newly launched Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of young African thinkers who are ready to influence policy, drive research, and contribute to meaningful change across the continent.
This programme is part of the revitalized Africa Youth Portal—formerly known as the Africa Portal—now redesigned as a dynamic space for youth-led ideas, research, and policy insights.
Programme Overview
At the heart of this initiative is a fully funded, week-long residential workshop titled:
“From Academia to the Think Tank: A Young Researcher’s Journey”
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Dates: 20–25 April 2026 (To Be Confirmed)
- Funding: All essential travel, accommodation, and workshop expenses fully covered.
The programme will bring together 20 outstanding postgraduate youth researchers, offering hands-on training, expert mentorship, and opportunities to publish research. Participants will receive personalized support to help them transition from academic writing into high-impact, policy-oriented research.
Training Components
Participants will gain practical skills and insights in:
- Understanding the difference between academic and think-tank research
- Writing sharp, influential policy briefs
- Communicating research via media and public platforms
- Leveraging AI and digital technologies in research
- Personal branding and long-term career planning
- Exploring thematic issues such as:
- Education
- Gender
- Youth inclusion
- Climate change
- Armed conflict
- Education
Application Deadline: 12 December 2025
Scroll down for more details and access the official application link below.
Program Details
- Host Institution: South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
Programme Benefits
- One-on-one mentorship from seasoned researchers
- Practical training in writing, communications, and digital tools
- Opportunity to publish on the Africa Youth Portal
- Access to a strong network of peers, experts, and organisations
- Potential consideration for positions within SAIIA’s Youth Advisory Committee
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be 18–35 years old
- Be enrolled in or have recently completed a postgraduate degree (Honours, Master’s, or PhD)
- Have an academic background in:
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Journalism
- Sociology
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Law
- Foresight Studies
- Or related fields
- Political Science
- Demonstrate strong commitment to youth development and policy research
- Be available for the full workshop and follow-up activities
- Be able to produce an 800–1000-word research article aligned with one of the programme’s themes
Eligible Countries: All African countries
Check other opportunities:
Scout Adventures Volunteer Program 2026 in the UK (Fully Funded)
UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/27: Admissions Now Open
Spend 5–10 Months in Italy! Apply for the Fully Funded EUI Leaders Fellowship 2026
