Deadline: March 13, 2026
The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications! This exciting six-month programme by the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) offers emerging researchers across West Africa the opportunity to strengthen their research, analytical, and documentation skills while contributing to impactful knowledge generation in the civil society sector.
About the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026
The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is a knowledge-building initiative designed to support young West African scholars and practitioners passionate about civil society development and sustainability.
Running from May to October 2026, the fellowship will provide a robust platform for participants to gain practical research experience, mentorship, and publication opportunities.
The fellowship particularly welcomes research focused on indigenous knowledge in biodiversity and conservation, alongside other areas of civil society relevance.
Focus Areas
The programme invites applications addressing the following research themes:
- Leadership and governance in civil society organisations
- Technology for development
- Resource mobilisation and financial sustainability
- Civil society sustainability and innovation
- Human resource management within non-profit organisations
- Community engagement and social inclusion
- Equitable civil society partnerships
- Capacity strengthening and institutional development in West Africa
Research proposals may explore these themes individually or in combination, demonstrating their relevance to civil society growth and local impact.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to young researchers residing in any of the following West African countries:
- Ghana
- Guinea Conakry
- Liberia
- Nigeria
- Senegal
Applicants must demonstrate strong research and analytical abilities. Research staff from organisations involved in capacity strengthening for biodiversity are particularly encouraged to apply.
Proficiency in English and/or French is essential.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive support throughout the six-month fellowship, including:
- Monthly stipends and a research allowance
- Mentorship and guidance from seasoned researchers and development experts
- Opportunities to produce and publish research outputs, including issue papers, op-eds, and blogs
- Access to WACSI’s extensive library of publications and regional research networks
- Professional development support and skill enhancement opportunities
This fellowship aims to build the next generation of civil society researchers who can generate practical, context-specific knowledge to strengthen West Africa’s development landscape.
Application Requirements
Interested applicants must submit the following documents:
- A motivation letter, clearly stating the proposed research duration and theme
- A current curriculum vitae (CV)
- A one-page synopsis of the intended research topic
- A sample of authored work (published or unpublished article)
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 13 March 2026.
Duration
The fellowship will run from May to October 2026.
How to Apply
To apply for the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026, interested candidates should submit all required documents via email to the contacts provided by WACSI.
Apply Now
👉 Read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
