The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 is a unique opportunity for young West Africans to gain expertise in security, gender, democracy, governance, and geopolitics, with a deadline of May 10, 2026, for applications. This fully funded programme offers a chance to work with leading African experts in Dakar, Senegal, and build connections that can unlock various careers in human security policy making and practice. By applying for this fellowship, young West Africans can take the first step towards becoming the next generation of policy leaders in the region.
About the Opportunity
The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) is a leading African organisation that aims to enhance human security in Africa through evidence-based policy advice and capacity building. The ISS Junior Fellowship Programme is a flagship initiative that empowers young West Africans, especially women, to become policy leaders in their region. The programme focuses on the critical issues of gender, human security, and geopolitics, which are essential for the development and stability of West Africa.
The ISS Junior Fellowship Programme is designed to address the governance challenges that prevent West Africa from reaching its full potential. By working with leading experts and decision-makers, fellows will gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues facing the region and develop the skills and knowledge needed to craft effective policy solutions. This programme is essential for Africans because it provides a unique opportunity for young people to engage with the most pressing security challenges facing their region and to develop the expertise needed to drive positive change.
The ISS has partnered with the Bosch Foundation to deliver this programme, which reflects the organisation’s commitment to empowering the next generation of African leaders. The programme’s focus on gender, human security, and geopolitics reflects the ISS’s recognition of the critical role that these issues play in shaping the future of West Africa. By supporting the development of young West African leaders, the ISS and the Bosch Foundation are investing in the long-term stability and prosperity of the region.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for the ISS Junior Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet a set of criteria that reflect the programme’s focus on empowering young West Africans.
- Be a citizen of any West African country, which includes countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Sierra Leone, among others.
- Be under 30 years of age, which reflects the programme’s focus on supporting the development of young leaders.
- Hold a Master’s degree in international relations, political science, law, anthropology, sociology, or related fields, which provides a foundation for understanding the complex issues facing West Africa.
- Have a strong interest in security, gender, democracy, governance, or geopolitics, which are the core focus areas of the programme.
- Be fluent in English or French, which are the working languages of the programme, and have additional West African languages, which can be an asset in engaging with the diverse cultures and communities of the region.
- Be a confident communicator, self-motivated, and eager to grow in a dynamic team, which reflects the programme’s emphasis on collaboration and personal development.
What You Will Gain
As a fellow of the ISS Junior Fellowship Programme, you will gain a unique set of benefits that will support your personal and professional development.
- A monthly stipend, which will cover your living expenses during the 10-month programme, allowing you to focus on your work and development without financial stress.
- Health insurance, which will provide you with access to quality medical care and protect your health and wellbeing during the programme.
- Rare access to top decision-makers, which will give you the opportunity to engage with leaders and experts in the field and build connections that can unlock future career opportunities.
- Opportunities to build connections that can unlock various careers in human security policy making and practice, which reflects the programme’s focus on supporting the development of young leaders who can drive positive change in West Africa.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to become a part of the ISS Junior Fellowship Programme. The deadline for applications is May 10, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to complete the process and submit your application before the deadline.
How to Apply for The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 for young West Africans (Fully Funded to Dakar, Senegal)
To apply for the ISS Junior Fellowship Programme, follow these steps: review the eligibility criteria and programme details, prepare your application materials, including your CV, cover letter, and academic transcripts, and submit your application through the ISS website. Ensure that you provide all the required information and supporting documents, and that your application is complete and submitted before the deadline.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The ISS Junior Fellowship Programme is a unique opportunity for young West Africans to gain expertise in security, gender, democracy, governance, and geopolitics, and to become the next generation of policy leaders in the region. By applying for this programme, you can take the first step towards unlocking your potential and driving positive change in West Africa. Do not miss this opportunity – apply now and start your journey towards becoming a leader in human security policy making and practice.
