Closing on June 30: Apply Now for the Africa Fellows in Education Program (AFEP) 2026/2027

The Global Education Analytics Institute, in collaboration with Partnership for Economic Policy, has opened applications for the Africa Fellows in Education Program (AFEP) 2026/2027.

This prestigious initiative offers a two-year, fully funded research fellowship aimed at strengthening education policy expertise among young African researchers.

The programme targets early-career professionals committed to improving education systems through data-driven analysis and evidence-based policymaking. Applications close on June 30, 2026 (23:59 GMT).

Programme Overview

AFEP is designed to build a strong network of African policy researchers with advanced skills in education economics, policy evaluation, and data analysis. The fellowship combines academic training, applied research, and international exposure to equip participants with the tools needed to influence education policy effectively.

The programme integrates:

• In-country research and policy engagement
• Regional and international training opportunities
• Access to global academic and policy networks
• Mentorship from leading institutions and experts

This blended structure ensures that fellows gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Fellowship Objectives

The Africa Fellows in Education Program aims to enhance the capacity of young researchers to contribute to education reform and policy development across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Key objectives include:

• Strengthening skills in evaluating education systems and policies
• Promoting the use of performance data in decision-making
• Encouraging rigorous, evidence-based policy approaches
• Building a sustainable network of education policy experts in Africa

The programme emphasizes the importance of integrating research into real-world policymaking processes.

Programme Structure

AFEP is structured around a combination of academic training and applied research activities conducted over two years.

Core Components

• Research Project Development
  • Fellows design and implement a research or evaluation project in their home country
  • Projects are supervised by local mentors and international advisors
• Training and Short Courses
  • Topics include evaluation methods, communication strategies, and incentive structures
  • Additional lectures focus on testing, performance measurement, and data analysis
• International Exposure
  • Fellows attend leading global conferences on the economics of education
  • Opportunities to engage with international researchers and policymakers
• Mentorship and Supervision
  • Ongoing guidance from experts affiliated with institutions such as Stanford University and other global partners

This structure ensures continuous learning, collaboration, and professional development.

Funding and Benefits

The fellowship provides substantial financial and institutional support to enable high-quality research and professional growth.

Fellows receive:

• A research grant of $25,000
• Up to $25,000 in additional funding for:
  • Conference travel
  • Mentorship support
  • Participation in workshops and training programmes

This comprehensive funding model ensures that fellows can focus on research without financial constraints.

Eligibility Criteria

AFEP is highly competitive and targets young, quantitatively skilled researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa.

Applicants must:

• Be nationals of a Sub-Saharan African country
• Be aged 35 years or younger
• Hold a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field with a strong quantitative focus
• Demonstrate experience in quantitative data analysis
• Show clear interest in education policy research
• Be affiliated with a government, research institution, or university
• Be proficient in English

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, reflecting the programme’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

Application Requirements

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• A two-page statement of interest
• A two-page essay addressing an education challenge in their country
• A detailed and updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

All applications must be submitted through the official PEP intranet system before the deadline.

Strategic Importance

The Africa Fellows in Education Program addresses a critical gap in education policy across Africa by building local capacity for evidence-based decision-making.

By empowering researchers with advanced analytical skills and global exposure, the programme contributes to:

• Improved education systems and outcomes
• Stronger policy design and implementation
• Increased use of data in governance and reform processes

AFEP plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of education policy leaders on the continent.

Conclusion

The AFEP 2026/2027 fellowship represents a unique opportunity for young African researchers to deepen their expertise, contribute to impactful education reforms, and engage with global networks of policymakers and academics. Through rigorous training, mentorship, and funding support, the programme equips fellows to drive meaningful change in education systems across Sub-Saharan Africa.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

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TagsAFEP AfricaFellowship CapacityBuilding EducationPolicy EducationReform FellowshipOpportunities GlobalEducation PolicyResearch ResearchFellowship SubSaharanAfrica YoungResearchers