Organization: Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI)Host Institution: Al Jazeera Media Network (AJMN), Doha, QatarApplication Window: 4 November – 4 December 2025Duration: 3 monthsEligible Applicants: Journalists and researchers from the Global South and beyondLanguages: Arabic and English Advancing Journalism through Research and Practice The Al Jazeera Media Institute (AJMI) announces the opening of applications for the 2025–2026 Fellowship Programme, inviting journalists, media professionals, and researchers from across the world to apply. This prestigious fellowship aims to strengthen journalism in the Global South by promoting innovation, ethical practices, and research in the ever-evolving field of media. Through immersive, hands-on experience at Al Jazeera Media Network (AJMN), fellows will engage directly with the newsroom, editorial teams, and research professionals who are shaping journalism’s future in the Arab world and beyond. Fellowship Objectives The AJMI Fellowship is designed to: Contribute to the development of high-quality journalism across the Global South. Help journalists adapt to emerging technologies and digital transformation. Encourage innovation and original research in journalism and media studies. Enrich the quality of journalistic content in developing regions. Offer participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in Al Jazeera’s work culture, gaining insight into professional journalistic practices and editorial standards. Through this initiative, AJMI continues its commitment to advancing the global dialogue on ethical, impactful, and forward-looking journalism. Fellowship Programmes AJMI offers two distinct fellowship streams designed to cater to diverse professional and academic interests. 1. The Al Jazeera Fellowship This flagship programme offers a three-month immersive experience for journalists and researchers to conduct original research, focusing on themes relevant to the evolution of journalism in the Global South. Programme Overview Selected fellows will: Join a professional team within the Al Jazeera Media Network and experience its newsroom operations first-hand. Conduct research in collaboration with editors, journalists, and media professionals aligned with their project. Produce a 7,000-word research paper on an approved topic of their choice. Structure and Phases The fellowship consists of two main stages: Phase 1 – Remote Research Preparation:The fellow will work independently to develop and submit a detailed research plan and introduction before traveling to Doha. Phase 2 – Onsite Research at Al Jazeera Headquarters (Doha, Qatar):The fellow will complete the research project while engaging directly with AJMN teams, accessing resources, and participating in the institute’s learning environment. Target Audience This fellowship is best suited for: Full-time journalists currently working in media organizations. Researchers and scholars with a background in journalism, communication, or social sciences. 2. Visiting Journalist Fellowship The Visiting Journalist Fellowship is designed for practicing journalists seeking short-term immersion and professional development within Al Jazeera Media Network. While applications for this specific programme are not yet open, AJMI plans to launch it in the near future. Interested candidates are encouraged to monitor official updates on the AJMI website and social media channels for announcements. Areas of Research Focus The fellowship welcomes a range of research topics, with priority given to innovative projects that explore the following themes: Journalism and the Global South – Examining challenges and innovations in emerging media landscapes. Digital Journalism – Understanding trends in online reporting, storytelling, and newsroom technology. New Schools in Journalism – Exploring evolving models of journalism education and training. Journalistic Ethics – Investigating professional standards, integrity, and accountability in media practice. Media Institutions and Challenges – Assessing the role of media organizations in social, political, and technological change. Selection Process A dedicated selection committee from AJMI will review all applications and assess candidates based on merit, eligibility, and the relevance of their research proposals. Selection Criteria Demonstrated experience in journalism, research, or media practice. The quality and originality of the proposed research topic. Alignment of the proposal with Al Jazeera’s mission and journalistic values. Relevance of the research to the Global South context and emerging media challenges. Fulfilment of all eligibility and submission requirements. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered, and no exceptions will be made. Eligibility Requirements Applicants must: Be working journalists or researchers with relevant experience in journalism or media studies. Demonstrate strong research and writing skills. Submit a comprehensive research proposal that reflects the fellowship’s focus areas. Meet the language requirements: Arabic native speakers: English proficiency is an advantage. Non-Arabic speakers: Fluency in English is required. Be available for the full three-month duration of the programme. Freelance journalists who meet the eligibility criteria are also encouraged to apply. Fellowship Duration and Structure Total Duration: 3 months Structure: Remote phase (research design) + Onsite phase (research completion in Doha) Output: 7,000-word research paper to be published or disseminated by AJMI Application Timeline Opening Date: 4 November 2025 Closing Date: 4 December 2025 Applications must be submitted online via the official Al Jazeera Media Institute platform during the specified window. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Can freelance journalists apply? Yes. Freelancers may apply provided they are currently active in journalism and meet all eligibility requirements. Can I apply if I miss one criterion? No. Candidates must meet all eligibility criteria. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered. Can I apply at any time of the year? No. Applications open once annually, typically during the autumn-winter cycle. Can fellows work while participating in the programme? Yes, provided they dedicate sufficient time to meet research milestones and adhere to AJMI’s standards and deadlines. How long does the programme last? The fellowship runs for three months in total. A Platform for Thought Leadership in Journalism The Al Jazeera Media Institute Fellowship provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the global conversation on journalism’s future—combining academic rigor with practical insight. Fellows gain access to world-class media professionals, mentorship opportunities, and the creative energy of one of the most influential news networks in the world. By bridging theory and practice, the fellowship empowers journalists and researchers to produce work that not only strengthens journalism in the Global South, but also inspires innovation and integrity across global media. 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 awarding 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.