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