The African Centre for Social and Population Research (ACSPR) invites applications for the 2026 ACSPR Research & Innovation Fellowship Programme, a six-month, part-time capacity-building and applied research fellowship designed to develop future-ready African research leaders who can translate evidence into action. Duration: March–August 2026Time commitment: 8–12 hours per week (part-time)Application deadline: 28 February 2026 About ACSPR ACSPR is a non-profit, non-partisan research and development organisation advancing understanding of population dynamics and social change across Africa. The Centre generates rigorous, interdisciplinary evidence and partners with governments, civil society, academia, and communities to strengthen policies, institutions, and community outcomes, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized groups. Key Focus Areas Population and Demographic Research Education and Skills Development Health and Well-being AI, Data, and Digital Governance Climate, People, and Planet Humanitarian Response and Resilience About the Fellowship The ACSPR Fellowship is an immersive, mentored experience for early-to-mid-career African researchers, practitioners, and policy enthusiasts. It goes beyond training. Fellows work on real ACSPR programmes and develop practical research or innovation outputs aligned with ACSPR’s thematic priorities. All fellows participate in core seminars covering: Research ethics and safeguarding Research in African contexts Evidence-based programming Data literacy Knowledge translation Track-specific sessions provide deeper, specialized learning. Fellowship Tracks Applicants must select one preferred track (with an optional second choice): 1. Research & Policy Track Focus: Applied research, policy engagement, and evidence translation.Typical outputs: Research tools and protocols Policy briefs Report sections Stakeholder engagement materials 2. Data & AI Track Focus: Data analysis, visualization, and responsible AI for development.Typical outputs: Cleaned datasets and codebooks Analysis memos Dashboards or prototypes Data/AI ethics notes 3. Communications & Knowledge Translation Track Focus: Public-facing writing, storytelling, and evidence packaging.Typical outputs: Blogs and explainers Infographics Dissemination plans 4. Operations & Partnerships Track Focus: Programme coordination and stakeholder engagement.Typical outputs: Stakeholder maps Coordination trackers Proposal components Partner engagement documentation Eligibility Criteria Applicants must: Be a citizen of an African country and reside on the continent Demonstrate interest in social research, public policy, health, education, climate, humanitarian response, or digital governance Be an early-career professional, final-year undergraduate, postgraduate student, or recent graduate (preferred) Submit a 500-word concept note aligned with one ACSPR focus area Be proficient in English Have reliable internet access and a computer Commit consistently to 8–12 hours per week Selection is competency-based and considers skills, portfolio, feasibility of concept note, and demonstrated commitment. What Fellows Will Gain Practical training in research, data, policy, and innovation Mentorship from ACSPR staff and affiliates Contribution to real programmes and potential publications Access to tools, templates, and learning resources Publication opportunity: one blog-style or commentary article Showcase opportunities via ACSPR platforms Membership in a growing alumni network Note: Stipends or research support are subject to funding availability and will be communicated to selected fellows. Application Package Submit one combined PDF containing: Completed application form CV (2–3 pages recommended) Motivation statement (500–800 words) Concept note (approximately 500 words) Two referees (names and contact details) Optional portfolio, writing sample, or code sample Key Dates Call opens: 10 February 2026 Deadline: 28 February 2026 Shortlisting and interviews: 2–5 March 2026 Notification of results: 10–12 March 2026 Fellowship begins: 16 March 2026 Fellowship ends: August 2026 Equal Opportunity Statement ACSPR is an equal opportunity organisation. Applications are welcomed from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic background. Women, persons with disabilities, refugees, and individuals from marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply. APPLY HERE 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 organization that is offering this fellowship. 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.