CENTRE FOR THE STUDY OF THE ECONOMIES OF AFRICA (CSEA)
The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) 2026 Africa's Data Future Fellowship
- ~US$1,500 stipendStipend Amount
- 3-month durationFellowship Length
- Remote programmeFormat
- ~10 awards/yearNumber of Fellows
- Targeted at African residentsGeographic Focus
- 2026 intakeLatest Cohort
At a glance
—
Funding
—
Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All African countries
Country
Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA)
Provider
The Africa’s Data Future Fellowship, organised by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), is a 3-month remote capacity-building programme designed for early-career professionals and changemakers across Africa. This fellowship, which selected 10 fellows in 2026, aims to enhance participants' knowledge and skills to influence data governance and digital transformation across the continent. The programme focuses on key thematic areas such as Digital Rights, Data Sharing, and Digital Public Infrastructure, providing a stipend of US$1,500 upon successful completion. Fellows are expected to produce a policy brief and a blog post based on their research, presenting their findings at a dedicated workshop at the fellowship's conclusion. Since its inception, this fellowship has contributed to building a network of professionals committed to shaping Africa's digital future. The programme, which typically runs for 3 months starting in October, underscores the CSEA's commitment to fostering expertise in data policy. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Stipend — A maximum stipend of ~US$1,500 is awarded upon successful completion of the fellowship.
- Capacity Building — Access to bi-weekly virtual masterclasses and expert sessions with sector leaders in data governance and digital policy.
- Professional Networking — Opportunity to build a pan-African professional network with peers and experts.
- Publication Opportunities — Fellows' work, including policy briefs and blogs, will be featured on CSEA’s platforms.
- Mentorship — Guidance and mentorship to influence data governance and digital transformation across Africa.
How to apply
Applications for the Africa’s Data Future Fellowship are submitted through an online system, and the selection process is competitive. All required documents must be in English.
- Access the Online Application — Visit the official webpage of the fellowship and click on the 'Apply Now' link to access the online application system.
- Complete the Application Form — Fill out the online application form with all necessary personal and professional details.
- Prepare Required Documents — Gather and prepare all supporting documents, including your CV, statement of interest, problem statement, and writing sample, ensuring they meet the specified length and content requirements.
- Submit Application — Upload all documents and submit your completed application through the online system before the deadline.
Eligibility
Postgraduate DegreeHold a postgraduate degree.
Professional ExperienceHave at least one year of professional experience in social sciences, law, technology, data policy, or related fields.
Nationality & ResidenceBe from, and resident in, any African country.
Professional EngagementCurrently working or professionally engaged in data governance, digital policy, AI, or technology in sectors such as government, private organisations, AI start-ups, research, or civil society organisations.
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in or experience with the public sector, data governance, digital policy, and/or technology as an added advantage. They must also commit at least 2 hours per week and have reliable internet access and a functional computer.
Eligible countries
All African countries
Deadlines
2026 Cohort2026-09-18
Selection
Selection for the Africa’s Data Future Fellowship is based on a competitive process. Applications submitted by eligible candidates are thoroughly reviewed, taking into account their academic background, professional experience, demonstrated interest in data governance and digital policy, and the quality of their application materials, including the statement of interest and problem statement.
Verified sources
- The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship (US$1,500 stipend)opportunitiesforafricans.comofficial
About the provider
The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) is a non-profit research organisation dedicated to promoting quality research and evidence-based policymaking for inclusive growth in Africa. It aims to influence policy through rigorous analysis and engagement with stakeholders.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the Africa’s Data Future Fellowship?
+
The Africa’s Data Future Fellowship is a 3-month remote capacity-building program for emerging leaders in African data governance, organized by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA).
What does the fellowship cover?
+
The fellowship covers a stipend of ~US$1,500 upon successful completion, bi-weekly virtual masterclasses, expert sessions, a pan-African professional network, and opportunities to have work featured on CSEA platforms.
What is the value of the award?
+
Fellows receive a stipend of ~US$1,500 maximum upon successful completion of the three-month fellowship program.
Who is eligible to apply for this fellowship?
+
Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree, have at least one year of professional experience in relevant fields, be from and resident in an African country, and be professionally engaged in data governance or related areas.
Which countries are eligible for this fellowship?
+
The fellowship is open to applicants who are from and resident in any African country.
Which study levels are eligible for this fellowship?
+
Applicants are required to hold a postgraduate degree, which typically includes Master's or PhD levels.
What is the application deadline for the 2026 cycle?
+
The application deadline for the 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship is 18 September 2026.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
+
Applications must be submitted through the online application system on the official webpage, including a completed form and all required supporting documents.
What documents are required for the application?
+
Required documents include a completed application form, a CV (max 2 pages), a statement of interest (max 300 words), a problem statement (max 300 words), and a writing sample.
How are fellows selected?
+
Fellows are selected through a competitive process based on eligible candidates' applications, assessing their qualifications, experience, and alignment with the fellowship's objectives.
What is the duration of the fellowship and is it renewable?
+
The fellowship has a duration of 3 months, typically starting in October. The information provided does not indicate that it is renewable.
Where can I confirm the current cycle details?
+
You can confirm all current-cycle details and further information on the official webpage of the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) Africa’s Data Future Fellowship.