In response to critical calls for action articulated in resolutions A/75/917 and A/77/644, the United Nations is proud to announce the launch of a pioneering initiative: the United Nations African Policy Innovation Fellowship. This innovative program is designed to empower a new generation of African policymakers to address the continent’s most pressing development challenges, fostering sustainable growth, peace, and resilience.
A Strategic Response to Africa’s Development Needs
The Fellowship emerges from the recognition that Africa’s development trajectory is often hindered by persistent structural inequalities, as highlighted in recent reports by the Secretary-General. During its review of UN support for the ambitious Agenda 2063, the Committee for Programme and Coordination emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional capacities in policy analysis, design, and monitoring—key areas where the Fellowship aims to make a significant impact.
By offering junior to mid-level policymakers a structured platform for skill enhancement, the program seeks to bridge the gap between policy formulation and effective implementation. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a cadre of African leaders equipped to drive evidence-based, inclusive, and innovative policies that advance peace and sustainable development across the continent.
Building a New Generation of Policy Leaders
The UN African Policy Innovation Fellowship envisions nurturing policymakers who are deeply committed to principles of inclusivity, transparency, and accountability. Through a combination of collaborative learning, mentorship, and exposure to best practices from around the globe, the program aspires to develop a dynamic community of policy leaders capable of translating strategic visions into tangible results.
Rooted in the belief that investing in Africa’s human capital is essential for a prosperous future, the Fellowship supports participants in developing data-driven, contextually relevant policy solutions aligned with national priorities and the UN’s six key transitions: food systems, energy access, digital connectivity, education, jobs and social protection, and climate change.
A Structured, Multi-Phase Approach
The Fellowship employs a comprehensive, three-phase model to guide participants from initial concept to actionable policy implementation:
- Phase 1 – Conceptualization: Fellows start by honing their understanding of policy analysis, diagnostics, and design fundamentals. They develop initial project proposals grounded in national data and institutional realities, supported by expert mentorship. The outcome is a conceptual framework and data inventory to inform subsequent phases.
- Phase 2 – Policy Innovation Development: Participants deepen their understanding of how international norms, finance instruments, and cooperation frameworks interface with domestic policy contexts. They work within UN agencies aligned with their project focus, engaging in intergovernmental dialogues and refining their approaches. The result is a comprehensive policy paper outlining innovative, feasible policy solutions.
- Phase 3 – Preparation for Implementation: Fellows prepare for real-world application by engaging with relevant ministries and stakeholders to assess institutional fit, political support, and financing pathways. They refine their implementation strategies and present their proposals for feedback and alignment with national development plans. The final product is a detailed implementation strategy, including funding considerations.
Following the core six-month fellowship, participants reintegrate into their home institutions, tasked with executing their projects. The UN Office of the Special Adviser on Africa (OSAA) provides ongoing support through follow-up and technical assistance, ensuring sustained progress and impact.
Eligibility and Application Process
Candidates must be current junior to mid-level civil servants working in key ministries such as finance, planning, energy, agriculture, education, or homeland security. They should have relevant research and analytical experience in socio-economic development, trade, natural resources, regional integration, or infrastructure projects within Africa.
Applicants are required to hold a university degree (Master’s or higher preferred) in a relevant field and be no older than 40 at the time of application. Fluency in English is mandatory, with proficiency in French considered an advantage.
The application process involves submitting a detailed project proposal addressing a national development challenge related to one of the UN’s six transitions. Proposals should include a data inventory, a clear plan for leveraging national data for policy formulation, and a strong financing component—covering resource mobilization, fiscal policy coherence, or innovative funding mechanisms.
Application Timeline and Requirements
The application window opens now and closes at midnight New York time on June 20, 2025. Interested candidates must submit:
- A one-page CV
- A signed supervisor’s endorsement letter (supporting their participation)
- A comprehensive project proposal following the provided template
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for competency-based interviews and assessments. Successful fellows will participate in a virtual conceptualization phase in July, followed by an in-person policy development phase at UN Headquarters in New York from August to October, and a final implementation preparation stage in November-December in their home countries.
Logistics and Support
Pending satisfactory progress and visa arrangements, in-person participation at UN Headquarters in New York will be supported with return airfare, a monthly stipend, and medical coverage, in accordance with UN regulations. The stipend is intended to cover accommodation, meals, and incidental expenses during the in-person phase.
Join the Movement for Africa’s Future
This Fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for Africa’s emerging policy leaders to enhance their skills, expand their networks, and contribute meaningfully to their countries’ development agendas. By fostering innovative, data-driven policies rooted in local realities and supported by global best practices, the program aims to accelerate Africa’s progress toward a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous future.
For more information and to submit your application, please visit the official UN fellowship portal. The deadline for submissions is June 20, 2025, at midnight New York time.
Contact: For questions or further assistance, reach out to: [email protected].
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