African Leadership Centre (ALC) Fellowships 2026: Fully Funded Peace, Security & Development Programs for African and Global South Leaders

The African Leadership Centre (ALC) Fellowships 2026 present a transformative opportunity for emerging leaders, scholars, and practitioners committed to advancing peace, security, and development across Africa and the Global South.

These prestigious fellowships combine academic excellence, policy engagement, mentorship, and real-world experience to equip participants with the tools, networks, and knowledge needed to influence governance, leadership, and development agendas globally.

Application Deadline

All ALC Fellowship programmes currently open for applications share the same deadline:

24 May 2026

Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin early and carefully prepare all required documents.

About the African Leadership Centre (ALC)

The African Leadership Centre is a globally recognized institution dedicated to:

• Promoting African-led solutions to global challenges
• Advancing leadership in peace, security, and development
• Bridging academic research with policy and practice
• Building a network of influential scholars and practitioners

Through its fellowship programmes, ALC empowers participants to transform ideas into impactful policies and actions.

Overview of ALC Fellowship Programmes

The ALC offers multiple fellowship tracks tailored to different backgrounds and career stages. Each programme integrates academic study, mentorship, and practical engagement.

1. Fellowships for African Scholars in Peace, Security and Development (Degree-Awarding)

Programme Highlights

• Duration: 18 months
• Combines academic study and practical experience
• Includes a Master’s programme in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding at King’s College London

Key Components

• Rigorous academic research and policy analysis
• Impactful writing and leadership training
• Mentorship (group, one-on-one, peer-to-peer)
• Simulation exercises and institutional visits
• Six-month attachment at:
  • African universities
  • Regional organizations
  • Centres of Excellence

Outcome

Fellows graduate with:

• Advanced academic knowledge
• Practical policy experience
• Strong professional networks
• Leadership capacity to influence Africa’s development agenda

Apply Here

2. Associate Fellowship in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding (Global South)

Who It’s For

• Students from the Global South
• Applicants pursuing MSc Global Leadership and Peacebuilding

Benefits

• 25% tuition fee coverage at King’s College London
• £5,000 contribution toward living expenses

Programme Features

• Academic research and policy engagement
• Mentorship and leadership development
• Optional internship at international institutions

Additional Requirement

Applicants must also apply separately to King’s College London.

Apply Here

3. Associate Fellowship in Peace, Security and Development (African Students)

Target Group

• African students pursuing careers in leadership and development

Benefits

• 25% tuition fee bursary
• £5,000 living allowance

Unique Advantage

• Paid six-month attachment at:
  • African universities
  • Regional organizations
  • Centres of Excellence

Programme Outcomes

• Academic excellence
• Policy and research expertise
• Practical leadership experience

Apply Here

4. Peace and Security Fellowship for Sudanese Women (Non-Degree)

Target Group

• Female citizens of Sudan

Key Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
• Valid travel documents

This fellowship is specifically designed to empower Sudanese women in peace and security leadership roles.

Apply Here

What Makes ALC Fellowships Unique?

1. Academic and Policy Integration

Participants engage in both academic learning and real-world policy work.

2. Mentorship and Leadership Development

• Group mentoring sessions
• One-on-one coaching
• Peer learning

3. Global Networking

• Connect with scholars and policymakers worldwide
• Join a network spanning over 30 countries

4. Practical Impact

• Fellows contribute to evidence-based policy solutions
• Influence governance and development strategies

Application Process

The ALC Fellowship application process is structured and comprehensive:

Step 1: Select a Programme

Choose the fellowship that aligns with your goals and background.

Step 2: Create an Account

Register on the ALC application portal.

Step 3: Complete Application Form

Provide:

• Personal information
• Academic background
• Professional experience
• Research proposal

Step 4: Upload Documents

Required documents include:

• CV
• Supporting statement
• Degree certificates
• Additional materials (PDF, max 10MB each)

Step 5: Nominate Referees

• Provide details of two referees
• Referees submit recommendations directly

Step 6: Submit Application

• Review all entries
• Submit and receive confirmation

Why You Should Apply

The ALC Fellowships are among the most impactful leadership programmes for individuals passionate about peace, security, and development.

Key Reasons to Apply

• Gain world-class education and mentorship
• Access funding and financial support
• Build a strong international network
• Acquire practical policy experience
• Influence real-world governance and development

Click HERE to learn more about the African Leadership Centre (ALC) Fellowships 2026.

For more global Fellowship opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth HERE.