Deadline: July 25, 2025
Applications are now open for the AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass 2025, a prestigious opportunity for African journalists to sharpen their investigative reporting skills using cutting-edge tools and techniques. Organised by the African Investigative Journalism Conference (AIJC) in partnership with SKUP (Norway) and Bellingcat, the masterclass is designed to empower both early-career and mid-career journalists across the continent.
The AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass 2025 will be held in Johannesburg, South Africa, in the days leading up to the main AIJC Conference taking place from November 5–7, 2025.
About the AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass 2025
This immersive, three-day training programme will expose selected fellows to advanced methods in:
- Digital forensics and fact-checking
- OSINT (Open Source Intelligence) tools and techniques
- AI-powered investigative journalism
- Data verification and analysis
The masterclass is a unique pre-conference event that brings together investigative journalists from across Africa to learn from globally recognised trainers and collaborate with peers in a high-impact environment.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is open to:
- Investigative journalists, editors, or media trainers based in any African country
- Early-career journalists (under 30 years old with less than five years of experience)
- Mid-career journalists (with five or more years of experience)
Applicants must be available to travel between late October and early November 2025 and must possess a valid passport.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows will receive:
- Return airfare to Johannesburg
- Airport transfers and local transportation
- Single-room hotel accommodation
- Meals during the training and conference
- Full access to the AIJC 2025 Conference
Fellows are expected to publish at least one investigative story inspired by the training or conference within three months of attendance.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: July 25, 2025
- Masterclass Duration: Late October to early November 2025
- AIJC Conference Dates: November 5–7, 2025
Why Attend?
Attending the AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass 2025 gives journalists the opportunity to:
- Learn advanced investigative tools from international experts
- Strengthen storytelling techniques with AI and digital tools
- Collaborate with peers across the African continent
- Gain exposure through the AIJC platform and international networks
The masterclass has consistently attracted Africa’s top investigative talent and remains one of the continent’s most respected training opportunities for serious journalists.
How to Apply
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- A current CV
- A short statement of interest (outlining your investigative experience and goals)
- Samples of recent published work
- Proof of passport and travel readiness
- 👉 Click here to apply
- 🔗 Read more about the programme here
Ensure your application is complete and compelling to stand out in this competitive selection process.
Final Thoughts
The AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass 2025 is a transformative platform for African journalists committed to truth-seeking, accountability, and data-driven storytelling. With full financial support and access to world-class trainers, this is a rare chance to level up your skills and influence through investigative journalism.
For proposal drafting, refining, and review support, contact grantsdatabase.org.
