The West Africa Civil Society
Institute (WACSI) was established to strengthen the operational,
institutional, and knowledge capacities of civil society in West Africa. The
institute serves as a resource hub, providing training, research,
documentation, policy dialogue, and platforms for experience sharing among
organized civil society organizations (CSOs) across the region.
Through its initiatives, WACSI identifies and develops the
skills of young researchers via a research fellowship program lasting between
three to six months. The fellowship offers early-career researchers a platform
to enhance their research competencies while contributing to the institute’s
objectives. Fellows work alongside seasoned professionals to investigate key
trends, challenges, and opportunities impacting the civil society ecosystem.
This fellowship provides participants with practical
experience in the civil society sector, expands professional networks, and
develops skills applicable across diverse career paths. Fellows gain insight
into community needs and priorities, contribute to policy and strategy
development, and assist in collating and documenting best practices and models
that can foster development regionally.
In 2026, the fellowship prioritizes the documentation of
indigenous knowledge within the biodiversity and conservation sector. This
includes research highlighting the contributions of organizations promoting
environmental sustainability in their respective countries. Indigenous
knowledge refers to traditional practices, beliefs, innovations, and systems
passed down through generations within communities. For civil society actors,
such knowledge enriches advocacy and supports more effective strategies in combating
climate change.
The fellowship seeks to cultivate skilled researchers
capable of bridging academia and CSOs operating in biodiversity and
conservation. This expertise facilitates future collaborations and ensures
continued documentation of knowledge on civil society efforts in environmental
conservation across West Africa and beyond.
Research Focus
The 2026 fellowship emphasizes documenting best practices
and replicable models to promote regional development. Applications are
particularly encouraged from candidates focusing on biodiversity and
conservation. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
- Leadership
and governance in civil society organizations
- Technology
for development
- Resource
mobilization strategies
- Sustainability
of civil society initiatives
- Internal
organizational practices and systems
- Human
resource management
- Policies
and frameworks enabling civil society
- Community
engagement strategies
- Equitable
partnerships between West African CSOs and international donors
- Capacity
strengthening for civil society organizations
Eligibility
The fellowship is open to young researchers from:
- Ghana
- Guinea
Conakry
- Liberia
- Nigeria
- Senegal
Eligibility considerations include:
- Current
staff of organizations participating in WACSI’s biodiversity capacity
strengthening programs are encouraged to apply.
- Young
researchers seeking to develop research skills, even if not affiliated
with the aforementioned programs, are welcome.
- Research
topics must demonstrate relevance to biodiversity and conservation.
- Applicants
must possess strong analytical and independent research skills.
- Fluency
in English and/or French is required.
Benefits
Fellows receive a range of benefits to support successful
research and knowledge documentation projects, including:
- Opportunity
to publish in a recognized platform dedicated to civil society research in
West Africa
- Production
of at least one publishable research report, policy document, Issue Paper,
Op-Ed, or blog article
- Assignment
of experienced mentors to guide fellows throughout the program
- Monthly
stipends and research allowances
- Development
of a WACSeries publication hosted on WACSI’s website
- Free
access to WACSI publications
- Skills
and knowledge acquisition to enhance career planning and professional
growth
Deliverables
Fellows are expected to:
- Contribute
to ongoing research conducted or commissioned by WACSI
- Produce
at least one article highlighting best practices, case studies, or success
stories within biodiversity and conservation
Fellowship Duration
The 2026 fellowship will run for six months, from May to
October, with potential adjustments based on alignment with the candidate’s
academic, research, and professional goals. Selection may be considered on a
case-by-case basis.
Application Process and Deadlines
Interested candidates must submit:
- A
motivation letter outlining the proposed theme and fellowship duration
- Curriculum
vitae
- A
one-page synopsis detailing the research approach and plans to meet
deliverables
- Sample
authored article or evidence of prior publications
Applications should be sent via email to research@wacsi.org no later
than 13 March 2026.
Key Timelines
- 23
February 2026: Applications open
- 13
March 2026: Application deadline
- 27
March 2026: Shortlisted applicants notified
- 2
April 2026: Interviews conducted
- 9
April 2026: Selection feedback provided
- 4 May
2026: Fellowship commences
Testimonials from Past Fellows
- “I
had no research background, but now I can take on any research project.
WACSI trusted my potential, and my mentor was always available to guide
me.” – Samira Seidu, Research Fellow 2023
- “I
joined to enhance my research skills and discovered the contributions of
many CSOs that had not been documented. My mentor helped shape my work,
and I gained valuable insight into social impact research.” –
Anna Batsa, Research Fellow 2022
Past Fellows’ Publications
- Dr
Solomon Amoah (Ghana)
- Kassim
Muhammad Sani (Nigeria)
- Ruwadzano
Patience Makumbe (Zimbabwe)
- Rachad
Bani (Benin)
VIEW THE CALL FOR APPLICATION HERE
CLICK
HERE TO JOIN AFROCAREERS.COM WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Post a Comment