Youth Futures Training and Mentorship in Participatory Action Research Methods The African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), in partnership with CAP Youth Empowerment Institute, is inviting applications for the Youth Futures Training and Mentorship Programme in Participatory Action Research (PAR). This initiative seeks to equip young African professionals with the research, analytical, and community engagement skills needed to advance dignified and fulfilling work opportunities for youth across the continent. About the Youth Futures Policy Research Project The Youth Futures Policy Research Project is a three-year initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, and Uganda. The project aims to strengthen youth-focused employment policies by addressing persistent gaps in policy design, regulatory frameworks, and implementation systems that limit access to decent and meaningful work. The project’s purpose is to develop a pipeline of young African researchers capable of informing and influencing policy through evidence, participatory methods, and youth-driven insights. It emphasises the need to create policy environments that reflect local realities and elevate youth voices in decision-making spaces. About the Training Programme The Youth Futures Training and Mentorship Programme is a three-month learning experience designed to build foundational and practical expertise in approaches used within the Youth Futures Policy Research Project. Participants will engage with core methodologies, including: Participatory Action Research (PAR) Political Economy Analysis (PEA) Intersectionality and equity-based frameworks The programme is structured to blend knowledge-building with application, enabling participants to co-design and implement a mini-PAR research project that responds to a real challenge affecting youth livelihoods in their communities. Training Approach and Delivery Model The programme follows a hybrid learning model that includes the following components: In-Person Boot Camp (2 Days) A foundational introduction to: Research principles Participatory and community-driven approaches Methods for problem identification and prioritisation Ethics and responsible research practices Virtual Learning Labs (3 Sessions) A series of guided online workshops focusing on: Translating research concepts into practical steps Analysing problems using PEA and intersectional frameworks Developing a research rationale, scope, and inquiry questions Tools for data collection, interpretation, and synthesis Three-Month Mentorship Participants receive structured mentorship to: Co-design a mini-PAR project Implement the project within their community or country Reflect on research practices and emerging findings Prepare insights that can feed into broader policy dialogues Mentorship is delivered by experienced researchers and practitioners aligned with the Youth Futures Policy Research Project. Who Can Apply? The programme is open to young people aged 24–35 from the following countries:Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Senegal, Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa. Ideal applicants will have: Experience or exposure to research, community engagement, youth work, or policy-related initiatives Demonstrated curiosity, critical thinking, and a desire to use research as a tool for social change Commitment to completing all components of the programme To promote inclusive participation, selection will ensure: Gender balance Representation of youth from rural or marginalised communities Inclusion of young people with disabilities Application Requirements Applicants must submit: Updated CV A 400-word statement of motivation outlining their interest in the programme and how they intend to apply the skills gained Application Deadline 23 November 2025 Prospective applicants requiring additional information may contact:cynthia.kahiga@capyei.org Apply via the online portal (link as provided in the original call). Key Benefits of Participation Exposure to high-impact participatory research methods Mentorship from experienced policy researchers Hands-on experience implementing a community-centred research project Strengthened capacity to contribute to youth employment solutions Opportunities to connect with a network of young African changemakers VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.