The ODI Global Fellowship Scheme is one of the world’s longest-running and most respected international development programs. Established in 1963, the fellowship places talented young economists and development professionals in government institutions across developing countries. Over the past six decades, the ODI Fellowship Scheme has embedded more than 1,300 fellows in ministries, central banks, and public agencies worldwide. Fellows support governments in strengthening policy capacity, economic planning, and public sector development. Applications are now open for the 2026–2028 fellowship cohort, offering early-career professionals a unique opportunity to work directly with governments while building a global career in development. Overview of the ODI Fellowship Program The ODI Fellowship is a two-year professional placement in a government institution in a developing country. Fellows work alongside civil servants to support national priorities, provide technical expertise, and strengthen institutional capacity. Key features of the fellowship include: Program duration: 2 years (2026–2028 cohort) Work placement: Government ministries and public agencies Locations: Countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Host institutions: Ministries of finance, planning commissions, central banks, and statistical offices Participants gain hands-on experience in policymaking and development programming while living and working in a new cultural and professional environment. Application Deadline Applications for the 2026–2028 ODI Fellowship cohort are open now. Application deadline: March 31, 2026 The program also hosts informational webinars for prospective applicants interested in learning more about the selection process and fellowship experience. What ODI Fellows Do Fellows work directly with government departments to support economic and development policy initiatives. Their roles vary depending on the host institution but often include: Economic and policy analysis Data and statistical modeling Budget planning and fiscal policy support Development strategy research Capacity building and staff training Fellows often help fill critical technical skill gaps in government institutions while sharing knowledge and strengthening collaboration networks. Example Fellowship Impact Former fellows have contributed to major government initiatives across the world. For example: A fellow working with the Rwanda Development Board helped develop tourism sector regulations and build Rwanda’s first integrated tourism data dashboards. A fellow placed at the Ministry of Finance, Tonga contributed to the country’s first Public-Private Partnership policy guidelines and supported fiscal policy modeling. Another fellow collaborated with the Freetown City Council in Sierra Leone to help develop the city’s four-year development strategy and climate finance initiatives. These placements allow fellows to make real policy contributions while gaining practical experience in government operations. Eligibility Requirements The fellowship targets early-career professionals in development economics and related fields. To apply, candidates typically need: A Master’s degree or PhD Academic specialization in economics, statistics, or related disciplines Strong analytical and quantitative skills Interest in international development and public policy The program welcomes applicants from all nationalities and backgrounds, including candidates from diverse communities. Benefits of the ODI Fellowship The fellowship offers a range of professional and personal benefits for participants. Practical Government Experience Fellows gain direct exposure to policymaking and development planning inside government institutions. International Career Opportunities Many former fellows go on to work in international organizations, development finance institutions, consulting firms, and public sector agencies. Global Network Participants become part of an extensive alumni community that includes professionals working across international development, research, and government sectors. Cultural and Professional Growth Living and working abroad allows fellows to develop cross-cultural communication skills and a deeper understanding of development challenges in different contexts. Organizations Supporting the Fellowship The ODI Fellowship Scheme is supported by several international development partners, including: The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) The World Health Organization (WHO) The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) The Global Fund The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Australia) These partnerships help fund fellowship placements and support development initiatives in host countries. Why Apply for the ODI Fellowship? The ODI Fellowship is widely considered a career-launching opportunity for development professionals. By working directly with governments, fellows gain rare insight into the policymaking process and build expertise in development economics and public administration. For young professionals interested in economic policy, global development, and international public service, the program offers a unique platform to make a meaningful impact while building a global career. LEARN MORE 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 that is offering this funding. 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.