The Institute for Security Studies Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme 2026–2027 is one of Africa’s most prestigious fully funded opportunities for emerging policy professionals who want to shape governance, security, and geopolitical discourse in West Africa. Designed to nurture the next generation of African thought leaders, this fellowship provides hands-on experience, direct access to policymakers, and a powerful platform to influence real-world decisions.
About the ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme
The ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme is a flagship initiative jointly delivered by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and supported by the Robert Bosch Foundation. It focuses on advancing research and policy engagement in gender, human security, and geopolitics in West Africa.
Selected fellows will spend approximately 10 months in Dakar, Senegal, working alongside leading African experts and contributing to high-impact policy research and dialogue.
This fellowship is not just academic—it is deeply practical, placing fellows at the heart of policy-making processes and exposing them to real governance challenges facing the region.
Who Can Apply (Eligible Countries and Region)
This opportunity is specifically designed for:
- Citizens of West African countries only
Eligible Region:
- West Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, etc.)
Applicants outside West Africa are not eligible.
Target Audience / Category of Applicants
This fellowship targets:
- Young African professionals
- Early-career researchers
- Policy enthusiasts and analysts
- Graduates aiming for careers in governance, international relations, or security studies
Special encouragement is given to:
- Women applicants, as gender inclusion is a core focus of the programme
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements
To qualify for the ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Academic Qualifications
- Must hold a Master’s degree in:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Law
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Or related disciplines
Age Requirement
- Must be under 30 years old
Language Skills
- Fluency in English or French
- Knowledge of additional West African languages is an advantage
Professional Interests
Applicants must demonstrate strong interest in:
- Security and peacebuilding
- Governance and democracy
- Gender issues
- Geopolitics
Personal Attributes
- Strong communication skills
- Self-motivation and initiative
- Ability to work in a multicultural and research-driven environment
Fellowship Benefits (Fully Funded Package)
The ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme offers a comprehensive funding package that removes financial barriers and allows fellows to focus fully on their work.
Financial and Logistical Support
- Monthly stipend
- Health insurance
- Free accommodation in Dakar
- Return airfare to and from your home country
Professional Development Benefits
- Mentorship from leading African policy experts
- Access to high-level policymakers and decision-makers
- Participation in workshops, seminars, and regional dialogues
- Opportunity to publish research and policy articles
Career Advancement Opportunities
- Exposure to real-world policy environments
- Strong professional network across Africa
- Enhanced career prospects in international organizations, governments, and think tanks
Fellowship Responsibilities and Activities
During the 10-month programme, fellows will engage in a wide range of activities, including:
- Conducting research on critical security and governance issues
- Writing policy briefs, articles, and reports
- Participating in workshops and seminars with policymakers
- Presenting weekly updates on political and security developments
- Collaborating with a multicultural team of analysts
- Engaging directly with government officials and stakeholders
This hands-on experience ensures fellows gain both theoretical knowledge and practical policy exposure.
Programme Duration and Location
- Duration: Approximately 10 months
- Location: Dakar, Senegal
- Host Organization: Institute for Security Studies
Why You Should Apply
The ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme stands out because it combines:
- Full financial support
- Direct access to policymakers
- Real-world research impact
- Mentorship from top experts
It is a gateway to careers in:
- International organizations
- Government policy units
- Think tanks and research institutions
- NGOs and development agencies
This fellowship is especially valuable for those who want to shape Africa’s future through evidence-based policy and governance innovation.
Application Process (Overview)
Applicants are typically required to submit:
- A detailed CV
- Motivation/cover letter
- Academic qualifications
- References
- Identification document (passport or ID)
Applications are usually submitted via the official ISS careers portal.
Deadline
10th May 2026
The ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme 2026–2027 is more than just a fellowship—it is a transformative leadership experience designed to empower young West Africans to tackle some of the region’s most pressing challenges.
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