The Regional Leadership Center – Southern Africa (RLC-SA) has officially opened applications for Online Programme Cohort 23, also known as the Education Changemakers Online Cohort 1. This fully virtual leadership development programme is designed to equip young African leaders in the education sector with the skills, networks, and knowledge required to drive meaningful change across Southern Africa. Applications are open until 27 February 2026 at 23:59 (South Africa Standard Time). The programme will run for seven weeks, from 20 April to 5 June 2026. About the Regional Leadership Center – Southern Africa (RLC-SA) RLC-SA serves as a dynamic capacity-building and knowledge-sharing hub for individuals and organizations across the Southern African region. The center is hosted by the University of South Africa (UNISA) at the Graduate School of Business Leadership in Midrand, South Africa. The institution is committed to nurturing a new generation of African leaders who are equipped to address complex, multidisciplinary challenges. Through structured training and leadership development, RLC-SA seeks to: Develop critical thinkers capable of solving contemporary African challenges Foster entrepreneurial and innovative leadership Promote cross-border collaboration and multicultural engagement Strengthen regional cooperation through knowledge exchange In addition to core leadership training focused on contemporary African issues, the Centre offers specialized programmes in transformative sectors, including education. Programme Structure and Delivery Cohort 23 will be delivered entirely online, ensuring accessibility for participants across multiple Southern African countries. The programme spans seven weeks and combines structured learning, peer engagement, and leadership development exercises. Programme Details: Format: Fully online Duration: Seven weeks Dates: 20 April – 5 June 2026 To participate effectively, applicants must have reliable access to the internet and a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet all of the following requirements: Be between 18 and 35 years of age Demonstrate a clear commitment to positively impacting their communities, countries, and the African continent Have a proven track record in training and development within the field of Education Hold citizenship in one of the following countries: Angola Botswana Comoros Lesotho Malawi Madagascar Mauritius Mozambique Namibia Seychelles South Africa Eswatini (Swaziland) Zambia Zimbabwe Be able to commit fully to the seven-week online schedule Demonstrate proficiency in English Applicants who do not meet these criteria will not be considered for the programme. Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity RLC-SA strongly encourages applications from individuals representing diverse and historically underrepresented communities. The programme particularly welcomes: Rural-based and economically disadvantaged young leaders Young leaders with disabilities Women Individuals who are HIV positive or living with AIDS Advocates for LGBTIQ rights and inclusion Members of minority groups across the region This inclusive approach reflects RLC-SA’s broader mission to ensure equitable leadership development opportunities throughout Southern Africa. Application Process The application process requires candidates to complete an online form that collects detailed personal, professional, and contact information. Applicants will be asked to provide: Full name and date of birth Place of birth and citizenship Country and city of residence National ID number Email addresses and phone numbers (including WhatsApp) Social media profiles (LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Facebook, and others) Confirmation of access to the required digital tools for participation Candidates should ensure that all submitted information is accurate and complete. The form does not automatically collect personal data unless provided by the applicant. Important Privacy Notice The application form is hosted on Microsoft Forms. Applicants should note: Submitted data is sent directly to the form owner. Microsoft is not responsible for the privacy or security practices of the form owner. Applicants should never share passwords or unnecessary sensitive information. It is advisable to review the platform’s privacy terms before completing the application. Contact Information For assistance or inquiries regarding the programme or application process, candidates may contact: mahlolv@unisa.ac.za Why This Programme Matters The RLC-SA Online Programme Cohort 23 offers a valuable opportunity for young education leaders to enhance their leadership competencies while building regional networks. Participants will engage with peers from across Southern Africa, exchange best practices, and strengthen their capacity to address systemic challenges in education. By focusing on leadership, innovation, and cross-border collaboration, the programme contributes to building a stronger, more resilient African education ecosystem. For emerging changemakers passionate about advancing educational development and inclusive leadership, this seven-week online experience provides both practical skills and long-term professional growth. Young leaders who meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to commit to transformative learning are encouraged to submit their applications before 27 February 2026. 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 offering this program. 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.