Researchers, postgraduate students, and community leaders across Africa now have an opportunity to contribute to transformative migration research through the Advancing Indigenous and Refugee Knowledge and Engagement on Migration in Africa (AIReKEMA) Project. The initiative is inviting applications for its 2026 Research Fellows Cohort, offering funding and mentorship to individuals committed to advancing innovative approaches to migration governance, peacebuilding, and refugee inclusion across the continent. The fellowship is a collaborative initiative between Carleton University and regional academic hubs in East, West, and Southern Africa. Through this program, selected fellows will conduct original research focused on the role of Indigenous knowledge systems and refugee-led initiatives in managing migration and fostering cooperation in border regions. About the AIReKEMA Project The AIReKEMA Project seeks to strengthen understanding and application of Indigenous and refugee knowledge in addressing migration challenges across Africa. The project operates through partnerships with: Refugee Law Project in Uganda Centre for Migration Studies in Ghana University of Zululand in South Africa Carleton University in Canada Each year, the initiative selects 12 Research Fellows who will investigate how traditionally marginalized forms of knowledge can contribute to better migration management, conflict reduction, and peacebuilding in African border regions. Fellowship Benefits Successful applicants will receive substantial support to undertake their research projects and engage with policymakers and stakeholders. Benefits include: US$11,000 fellowship stipend US$1,800 research expense fund Part-time appointment for 12 months Academic mentorship from regional and international supervisors Co-supervision by faculty members from Carleton University and regional hubs Participation in project activities and workshops Remote access to Carleton University Library resources Opportunities to engage policymakers and regional organizations Support in translating research findings into policy-relevant outputs The fellowship aims to ensure that research findings contribute directly to practical solutions for migration-related challenges affecting communities across Africa. Research Focus Areas Applicants are expected to propose original research projects that align with the core objectives of the AIReKEMA initiative. Research themes may include: Migration governance in Africa Refugee integration and inclusion Conflict resolution in border regions Indigenous knowledge systems Refugee-led development initiatives Community governance structures Peacebuilding and social cohesion Cross-border cooperation Local responses to displacement and migration Particular emphasis will be placed on research examining how Indigenous communities and refugee-led initiatives contribute to managing migration flows and reducing conflict in border areas. Eligibility Requirements The fellowship is open to candidates who demonstrate strong engagement with migration and refugee-related issues. Eligible applicants must: Be a postgraduate student (Master’s or PhD level) or an early-career scholar Be a community leader with demonstrated experience in relevant research themes Have a proven record of engagement with migration, refugee, or policy issues Demonstrate interest in border governance and peacebuilding Present a clear vision for how the fellowship will advance their professional and research goals Priority consideration will be given to: Members of Indigenous communities Members of refugee communities Applicants from East Africa Applicants from West Africa Applicants from Southern Africa Candidates contributing to gender diversity Candidates enhancing regional and social diversity within the cohort Application Requirements Interested candidates must submit a complete application package by email. Required documents include: Cover letter Curriculum Vitae (CV) Three-page research proposal (single-spaced) Names and contact information of three references The research proposal should: Clearly articulate the research problem or puzzle Explain the significance of the research Demonstrate relevance to AIReKEMA project goals Situate the study within existing literature Present a clear research question Outline the proposed methodology Provide a timeline showing completion by January 2027 Selection Process Applications will be reviewed by a Selection Committee composed of representatives from Carleton University and the relevant regional hub. The selection process will include: Application review Shortlisting of eligible candidates Virtual interviews via Zoom Final selection and notification Important Dates Applicants should take note of the following deadlines: Application Deadline: June 1, 2026 Interview Invitations: By June 8, 2026 Final Results Announcement: June 22, 2026 Research Completion Timeline: January 2027 Why This Fellowship Matters Migration continues to shape social, economic, and political realities across Africa. However, local and Indigenous knowledge systems are often overlooked in policy discussions. The AIReKEMA Fellowship seeks to bridge this gap by empowering researchers and community leaders to generate evidence-based insights that elevate local perspectives and refugee experiences. Through funding, mentorship, and policy engagement opportunities, the fellowship aims to support a new generation of scholars and practitioners dedicated to creating more inclusive and sustainable approaches to migration governance and peacebuilding across the continent. Interested applicants should submit their application materials to AIReKEMA@carleton.ca before the June 1, 2026 deadline. VIEW THE CALL TO APPLY HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.