Deadline: November 9, 2025
Are you a mid-career professional passionate about governance, leadership, and sustainable development? The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) invites applications for the IDOS Shaping Futures Academy 2026 – a transformative international fellowship designed to equip change-makers from Africa and Europe with the skills, networks, and knowledge to shape a more just and sustainable world.
About the IDOS Shaping Futures Academy 2026
The IDOS Shaping Futures Academy 2026 is an intensive leadership and policy learning programme hosted by the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS). It brings together professionals from Africa and Europe to foster mutual learning, dialogue, and collaboration around sustainable development and democratic governance.
The programme runs between April and October 2026, combining three part-time online modules with one full-time in-person module in Germany.
Programme Structure and Timeline
1. Online Phases
The online modules are scheduled for April, September, and October 2026. Each online phase will include:
- Peer-learning activities
- Group calls and self-paced study modules
- Offline discussions and reflections
- Collaborative assignments with international peers
These online components are designed to support participants’ continued professional commitments while engaging in learning and exchange.
2. In-Person Phase (May – July 2026)
The full-time in-person module will take place in Bonn, Germany, in collaboration with the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD Ghana).
During this phase, fellows will:
- Participate in leadership and academic modules
- Engage in practical study trips to Berlin and Brussels
- Work collaboratively on thematic projects related to governance and sustainable development
Benefits
Selected participants will receive comprehensive financial support for the duration of the programme, including:
- Round-trip travel to and from Germany
- Accommodation during the in-person phase
- A monthly living allowance while in Germany
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- A subsidy to meet technical requirements for online participation
This support ensures equal access for all selected fellows, regardless of financial background.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the IDOS Shaping Futures Academy 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be 25–40 years old
- Be a national or permanent resident of one of the eligible countries
- Have a minimum of 3 years of work experience (paid or voluntary) in relevant areas
- Be actively working on issues related to sustainable development or governance
- Provide a letter of support from their current employer
- Be available to participate fully in all phases of the programme (April–October 2026)
- Hold a valid passport for international travel
- Demonstrate good command of English (minimum CEFR B2 level)
Eligible Countries
Applications are welcome from professionals based in the following countries:
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Senegal
- Tunisia
- Zambia
- European countries (EU, EEA, and the United Kingdom)
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 9 November 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
Why Apply for the IDOS Shaping Futures Academy 2026?
The programme offers a unique platform for mid-career professionals to enhance their understanding of global development challenges and explore innovative solutions through collaborative learning. Participants will gain:
- Exposure to cutting-edge research and policy debates
- Access to international networks and experts
- Practical leadership and policy skills
- Opportunities to engage with institutions and policymakers in Europe and Africa
This is not just a fellowship—it’s a launchpad for future leaders committed to advancing sustainable and democratic governance.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare their application materials in accordance with the official guidelines and submit them before the deadline.
👉 Click here to apply for the IDOS Shaping Futures Academy 2026
👉 Read more about the programme here
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