African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) 2026–2027: Fully Funded Continental Youth Leadership Programme | 50 Positions Available Across Africa

The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) is now open for applications for the 2026–2027 cohort. This prestigious, fully funded programme offers young African professionals the opportunity to serve as volunteers across the continent while gaining hands-on experience in policy, development, and leadership.

If you are passionate about Africa’s development and want to contribute to Agenda 2063: “The Africa We Want”, this is one of the most competitive and impactful youth opportunities available.

About the African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC)

Established in 2010, the AU-YVC is a flagship youth leadership initiative designed to:

• Recruit, train, and deploy young African professionals
• Promote youth participation in continental development
• Strengthen skills, leadership, and cross-cultural collaboration

Volunteers are deployed for 12 months in another AU Member State, contributing to development programmes and policy initiatives.

Programme Overview

• Programme: African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC)
• Organization: African Union Commission
• Duration: 12 months
• Number of Positions: 50
• Start Date: 2026/2027 cycle
• Application Deadline: April 10, 2026 (11:59 PM EAT)

Key Objectives

The AU-YVC programme aims to:

• Empower young Africans as drivers of development
• Promote volunteerism across the continent
• Enhance youth engagement in policy and governance
• Foster a more integrated, peaceful, and prosperous Africa

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Be a citizen of an AU Member State (living in Africa or the diaspora)
• Be aged 18–35 years
• Hold at least a post-secondary qualification (TVET, Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.)
• Be available for 12 months of full-time volunteer service
• Be willing to live and work in another African country
• Be proficient in at least one AU working language (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, or Spanish)
• Have:
  • At least 1 year of volunteering experience
  • At least 1 year of professional work experience

Required Skills

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Proficiency in email and internet tools
• Excellent communication (written and verbal)
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Multilingual ability (an added advantage)

Core Competencies

Successful candidates are expected to:

• Communicate clearly and effectively
• Write concisely and professionally
• Work in multicultural environments
• Demonstrate integrity and high ethical standards
• Show commitment and professionalism

Volunteer Benefits and Entitlements

Selected AU Youth Volunteers will receive:

• Full pre-deployment training
• Economy return ticket to duty station
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Health insurance coverage
• AU Service Passport
• Separation allowance upon completion
• Access to training and mentorship opportunities
• Opportunity to engage in high-level continental policy work
• Networking with young leaders across Africa

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Complete Your Profile

Visit the AU careers portal and:

• Register or log in
• Fill in your personal information

2. Upload Required Documents

• Updated CV (maximum 3 pages)
• Passport bio page or national ID
• Highest qualification certificate (no transcripts)
• Recommendation letter (not older than 2 years)

3. Submit a Cover Letter

Your cover letter must answer:

• Why do you want to become an AU Youth Volunteer?
• What makes you the best candidate?
• What skills will you bring to the programme?

4. Submit Before Deadline

Ensure your application is submitted by:
April 10, 2026 (11:59 PM EAT)

⚠️ Mandatory Requirement: AU CV Template

All applicants must use the official African Union CV template.

• Applications without the AU CV format will NOT be considered
• Download, complete, and upload the template before applying

Important Notes

• Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• Providing false or incomplete information may lead to disqualification
• The African Union does NOT charge any application or facilitation fees

Why You Should Apply

The AU-YVC is more than a volunteer programme—it is a career-defining opportunity to:

• Gain continental exposure
• Build leadership and professional skills
• Contribute directly to Africa’s development agenda
• Join a network of future African leaders

The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) is one of the most impactful youth programmes in Africa, offering a unique platform for young professionals to drive change at a continental level.

If you meet the criteria and are ready to make a difference, apply before the deadline and take your place among Africa’s next generation of leaders.

FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY HERE 

More opportunities for Africans: https://opportunitiesforyouth.org/?s=Africa