Africa Economic Symposium (AES) 2026 Volunteer Opportunity in Morocco: Gain Hands-On Experience at One of Africa’s Premier Economic Events

Applications Open for Volunteers at the Africa Economic Symposium (AES) 2026 in Rabat, Morocco

The Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) has officially launched a call for volunteers to support the 4th edition of the Africa Economic Symposium (AES) 2026, one of the continent’s leading platforms for economic dialogue, policy discussions, and intellectual exchange.

Scheduled to take place in Rabat, Morocco, from July 13–14, 2026, under the theme “Turning Transitions into Growth,” the symposium will bring together leading economists, policymakers, academics, researchers, development practitioners, and thought leaders from across Africa and around the world.

This volunteer opportunity offers students and young professionals a unique chance to gain firsthand experience in organizing a high-level international conference while networking with some of the most influential voices shaping Africa’s economic future.

About the Africa Economic Symposium (AES)

Since its establishment, the Africa Economic Symposium has evolved into a highly respected platform that bridges global perspectives with African realities.

The symposium creates a space where:

• Rigorous research informs policy decisions.
• Economic experts engage with emerging African challenges.
• Policymakers exchange innovative ideas and solutions.
• Academics and practitioners collaborate on development strategies.
• Young professionals gain exposure to continental economic discussions.

\Now in its fourth edition, AES has significantly expanded its influence and reach.

AES 2026 by the Numbers

The symposium is expected to:

• Host over 200 participants.
• Bring together economists, policymakers, and academics.
• Welcome representatives from more than 40 nationalities.
• Facilitate discussions on economic transformation across Africa.
• Provide a platform for evidence-based policy dialogue.

The 2026 theme, “Turning Transitions into Growth,” will explore how African countries can transform economic, technological, demographic, environmental, and governance transitions into sustainable development opportunities.

Why Volunteer for AES 2026?

Volunteers will become an integral part of the symposium’s operational and organizational success.

Working closely with the Policy Center for the New South team, selected volunteers will gain practical experience in:

1. International Event Management

Volunteers will participate in:

• Conference planning support.
• Event logistics coordination.
• Participant management.
• Venue operations.
• Registration processes.
• Session support.

2. Professional Networking

This opportunity allows volunteers to interact with:

• Senior policymakers.
• International economists.
• Researchers.
• Development experts.
• Government officials.
• Academic leaders.

3. Communication and Media Exposure

Volunteers may assist with:

• Media coordination.
• Communication activities.
• Information dissemination.
• Stakeholder engagement.
• Event documentation.

4. Practical Learning Experience

Participants will gain valuable skills in:

• Teamwork.
• Leadership.
• Communication.
• Problem-solving.
• Project coordination.
• Event operations.

5. Access to the Symposium

Volunteers will have opportunities to participate in selected portions of the official conference program, allowing them to learn directly from high-level discussions and presentations.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Selected volunteers will support the Policy Center for the New South before and during the symposium.

Responsibilities may include:

Logistical Support

• Registration assistance.
• Guest reception.
• Venue preparation.
• Coordination of conference materials.
• Participant guidance.

Production Support

• Session setup.
• Speaker coordination.
• Technical support assistance.
• Event flow management.

Communication and Media Tasks

• Information dissemination.
• Media coordination support.
• Participant communication.
• Event documentation.

Administrative Duties

• Organizational support.
• Coordination activities.
• Documentation management.
• General conference assistance.

Volunteers will work closely with PCNS staff throughout the preparation and implementation phases of the symposium.

Volunteer Commitment

Successful candidates must:

• Attend all orientation sessions.
• Participate in mandatory team meetings.
• Be available throughout the symposium period.
• Demonstrate professionalism and reliability.
• Maintain punctuality.
• Support the conference team as required.

Volunteer Duration

• Earliest Start Date: July 12, 2026
• Event Dates: July 13–14, 2026

Although the event itself spans two days, volunteers will begin preparations on July 12.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

Education

Candidates should be:

• Bachelor’s students.
• Master’s students.
• Recent graduates.
• Young professionals.

Language Requirements

Applicants must have:

• Fluency in English.

Preferred:

• French language proficiency.
• Arabic language proficiency.

Additional Skills

Successful applicants should demonstrate:

• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong interest in African economic issues.
• Flexibility and adaptability.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Administrative and organizational capabilities.
• Professional conduct.

Preferred Qualifications

While not mandatory, experience in the following areas is advantageous:

• Event management.
• Conference coordination.
• Public relations.
• Communications.
• Development programs.
• Research support.

Benefits of Participating

Volunteers will enjoy several benefits, including:

Professional Development

• Exposure to international conferences.
• Practical event management experience.
• Enhanced communication skills.
• Expanded professional network.

Learning Opportunities

• Access to discussions on African economic development.
• Exposure to leading experts and policymakers.
• Insights into public policy and economic research.

Networking

• Engagement with international delegates.
• Connections with academics and practitioners.
• Opportunities to build future career relationships.

Event Support Benefits

• Meals provided throughout the event.
• Accommodation available when needed.
• Orientation and guidance from experienced professionals.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit:

1. Updated Resume/CV.
2. Cover Letter.

Applicants should ensure that both documents include a valid phone number, as interviews will be conducted via phone.

Application Deadline

June 26, 2026

Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.

Interview Process

Interviews are scheduled to begin from:

July 1, 2026

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.

Apply Here 

About the Policy Center for the New South

The Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) is a leading Moroccan think tank dedicated to generating knowledge and policy solutions for Africa and the Global South.

Based at the Rabat Campus of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, PCNS conducts research and dialogue across several thematic areas including:

• Economy.
• Agriculture.
• International Relations.
• Security and Defense.
• Energy.
• Society.
• Sustainable Development.

Through initiatives such as the Africa Economic Symposium, the organization fosters informed policy discussions that contribute to Africa’s development and economic transformation.

Final Thoughts

For students and young professionals interested in economics, public policy, development, and international affairs, volunteering at the Africa Economic Symposium 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to gain real-world experience while contributing to one of Africa’s most influential economic gatherings.

Beyond operational experience, volunteers will gain valuable exposure to policy discussions shaping the continent’s future, interact with global experts, and strengthen their professional networks. If you are passionate about Africa’s economic development and eager to learn from leading thinkers and decision-makers, this opportunity should not be missed.

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