Deadline: January 24, 2026
The ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026 is now open for applications! This exciting opportunity by the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO) is designed for ambitious young graduates across Africa who aspire to gain hands-on professional experience, develop valuable skills, and contribute to intellectual property (IP) growth and innovation across the continent.
The programme provides a structured platform for professional and personal development, focusing on grooming high-potential individuals for leadership in their fields.
About the ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026
The ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026 is a two-year, fixed-term professional development initiative that offers young Africans exposure to practical intellectual property management, organizational operations, and policy application. The programme aims to enhance participants’ understanding of IP as a tool for socio-economic development, while providing them with mentorship and career growth opportunities.
Successful candidates will be based at ARIPO’s headquarters in Harare, Zimbabwe, and will benefit from a dynamic environment that fosters innovation, collaboration, and career excellence.
- Duration: 2 years (non-renewable contract)
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Expected Start Date: April 2026
- Application Deadline: January 24, 2026
Objectives of the Programme
The ARIPO Young Professionals Programme seeks to:
- Equip participants with essential knowledge and professional skills in Intellectual Property (IP) and administrative functions.
- Foster the development of young African professionals capable of driving socio-economic transformation in their respective countries.
- Support ARIPO’s mission to strengthen IP systems and promote innovation across its member states.
Benefits of the Programme
Participants of the ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026 will enjoy a comprehensive package of benefits, ensuring both professional and personal well-being throughout the programme duration. These include:
- 💰 Monthly Stipend: US $2,500
- 💼 Settling-in Grant: Equivalent to one month’s stipend upon appointment
- ✈️ Free Travel: Airfare provided to the host country on appointment and back to the home country upon completion
- 🩺 Medical Insurance: 80% covered by ARIPO and 20% by the participant
- 🏖️ Leave Benefits: Annual leave, sick leave, and compassionate leave
- 🛡️ Insurance Coverage: Group life, funeral, and accident cover
- 🚚 Repatriation Grant: Equivalent to one month’s stipend upon completion
This robust benefits package ensures that selected professionals can focus on growth, learning, and meaningful contribution during their stay at ARIPO.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Nationality
Applicants must be citizens of any ARIPO Member State, including:
Botswana, Cape Verde, Eswatini, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.
2. Academic Qualification
Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields:
- Business Studies / Business Administration
- Law
- Business Analytics / Project Management / Strategy
- Telecommunications
Note: The degree must have been obtained within the last five years prior to application.
3. Age Requirement
Applicants must be 28 years old or younger at the time of application.
Required Skills and Competencies
Ideal candidates for the ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026 should possess the following skills and attributes:
- Strong analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Creativity and innovation mindset.
- Proficiency in English (both written and spoken).
- Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team.
- Good command of digital tools and technology.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through ARIPO’s official vacancies portal.
Ensure that your application includes all required documents and that it is submitted no later than January 24, 2026. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further assessment.
Why You Should Apply
The ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026 presents a rare opportunity to launch your professional journey with a globally recognized African organization. Beyond financial benefits, participants gain mentorship, international exposure, and a strong professional network—making this a transformative experience for emerging professionals across the continent.
Read More
🔗 Read more about the ARIPO Young Professionals Programme 2026
📩 Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
