Apply: Virtual Climate Governance, Diplomacy & Negotiations Leadership Program The African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES), through the Jael Vike Climate Policy Centre, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the January 2026 intake of its flagship Climate Governance, Diplomacy, and Negotiations Leadership Program. This pioneering initiative is designed to equip African professionals with the knowledge, skills, and strategic tools required to lead effectively in global climate governance and negotiation processes. The program supports the development of a new generation of African leaders who can represent the continent’s interests in international climate forums and drive transformative climate action at the national, regional, and global levels. Format: VirtualApplication Deadline: 15 December 2025 Why This Program Matters Africa stands at the frontlines of the global climate crisis, facing urgent challenges that require informed, inclusive, and coordinated responses. At the same time, the continent has a wealth of expertise, youth, and innovation that can shape a more equitable and sustainable future. However, effective participation in international climate processes requires a deep understanding of governance frameworks, diplomacy, and negotiation strategies. The Climate Governance, Diplomacy, and Negotiations Leadership Program responds to this need by empowering African policymakers, researchers, and advocates with the capacity to influence decisions within multilateral environmental agreements—especially the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other global policy platforms. Program Objectives The program aims to: Strengthen African representation and leadership in global climate negotiations. Enhance participants’ understanding of international climate governance, including mechanisms under the UNFCCC, the Paris Agreement, and related frameworks. Develop advanced negotiation and diplomacy skills, enabling participants to engage confidently in complex, multi-stakeholder discussions. Promote regional collaboration by fostering a network of skilled professionals across Africa. Support evidence-based climate policymaking that aligns with Africa’s development priorities and sustainability goals. Through its comprehensive curriculum, the program bridges the gap between policy theory and practice, ensuring that participants can translate global climate commitments into effective national action. Target Audience and Eligibility The program is open to early- and mid-career professionals working in or with African institutions who have a strong interest in climate policy and international environmental negotiations. Eligible applicants include: Government officials and policymakers involved in climate or environmental portfolios. Researchers, academics, and technical experts working on climate change, energy, or sustainable development. Civil society representatives and youth leaders engaged in advocacy and community-based climate initiatives. Professionals from regional or intergovernmental organizations supporting environmental and development programs. Ideal candidates should demonstrate: A proven commitment to advancing climate action or sustainable development in Africa. A desire to strengthen their leadership capacity and engagement in policy and negotiation processes. Strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills. Proficiency in English (knowledge of French or Portuguese is an asset). Learning Components and Structure Delivered in a virtual format, the program offers an engaging, interactive, and flexible learning experience that accommodates participants across different regions of Africa. Core Modules Include: Climate Governance Fundamentals – Understanding the global architecture of climate governance, including key institutions, treaties, and decision-making processes. The African Climate Policy Landscape – Examining regional strategies, institutions, and frameworks shaping Africa’s climate agenda. Climate Diplomacy and Negotiations – Building diplomatic skills, negotiation strategies, and techniques for consensus-building within international forums. Science, Policy, and Evidence-Based Decision-Making – Bridging the gap between climate science, research, and policy design. Leadership for Climate Action – Strengthening strategic leadership, communication, and advocacy to influence national and international climate outcomes. Each module combines expert-led lectures, interactive workshops, case studies, and simulation exercises designed to enhance practical understanding and leadership confidence. Program Benefits Participants in the Climate Governance, Diplomacy, and Negotiations Leadership Program will gain access to: World-class instruction from leading African and international climate policy experts. Hands-on learning through real-world negotiation simulations and case analyses. Networking opportunities with professionals, policymakers, and negotiators across the continent. Mentorship and guidance from experienced negotiators within the African Group of Negotiators (AGN) network. Certificate of completion from the Jael Vike Climate Policy Centre and AGNES. Graduates of the program join a growing network of African climate leaders committed to promoting inclusive, science-driven, and just climate policies. About AGNES and the Jael Vike Climate Policy Centre The African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) plays a vital role in strengthening Africa’s participation in international climate change negotiations. It provides technical and policy support to African negotiators, ensuring that the continent speaks with a unified and informed voice in global climate forums. The Jael Vike Climate Policy Centre, established under AGNES, serves as a hub for climate policy research, training, and leadership development. It aims to cultivate a cadre of skilled African professionals capable of leading transformative climate governance efforts and influencing global policy directions that align with Africa’s priorities. Together, AGNES and the Jael Vike Climate Policy Centre are shaping a future where African negotiators, policymakers, and advocates have the skills, confidence, and influence to drive ambitious and equitable climate action. Why Apply? By joining this program, participants will: Gain a comprehensive understanding of global and regional climate governance systems. Develop advanced negotiation and diplomacy skills tailored to international climate processes. Strengthen their ability to represent African interests effectively in global negotiations. Become part of a vibrant pan-African network of climate professionals and experts. Enhance their career prospects in climate policy, environmental diplomacy, and sustainable development leadership. This program is an exceptional opportunity for individuals passionate about shaping Africa’s role in global climate negotiations and advancing sustainable solutions for the continent. Application Details Deadline: 15 December 2025 Program Start Date: January 2026 Format: 100% Virtual (Online Learning) Duration: Structured over several weeks with flexible participation schedules APPLY HERE Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early due to the competitive selection process. Call to Action The Climate Governance, Diplomacy, and Negotiations Leadership Program represents a strategic investment in Africa’s future climate leadership. By empowering emerging professionals with the tools and knowledge to navigate international policy spaces, the program ensures that Africa’s voice remains strong, united, and effective in global climate negotiations. If you are passionate about driving change, influencing policy, and representing Africa on the world stage, this is your opportunity to take the next step in your climate leadership journey. Apply by 15 December 2025 and join the next generation of African climate leaders shaping a sustainable and resilient future for the continent. 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 offering 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.