The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) was established to strengthen the operational, institutional, and knowledge capacities of civil society in West Africa. The institute serves as a resource hub, providing training, research, documentation, policy dialogue, and platforms for experience sharing among organized civil society organizations (CSOs) across the region. Through its initiatives, WACSI identifies and develops the skills of young researchers via a research fellowship program lasting between three to six months. The fellowship offers early-career researchers a platform to enhance their research competencies while contributing to the institute’s objectives. Fellows work alongside seasoned professionals to investigate key trends, challenges, and opportunities impacting the civil society ecosystem. This fellowship provides participants with practical experience in the civil society sector, expands professional networks, and develops skills applicable across diverse career paths. Fellows gain insight into community needs and priorities, contribute to policy and strategy development, and assist in collating and documenting best practices and models that can foster development regionally. In 2026, the fellowship prioritizes the documentation of indigenous knowledge within the biodiversity and conservation sector. This includes research highlighting the contributions of organizations promoting environmental sustainability in their respective countries. Indigenous knowledge refers to traditional practices, beliefs, innovations, and systems passed down through generations within communities. For civil society actors, such knowledge enriches advocacy and supports more effective strategies in combating climate change. The fellowship seeks to cultivate skilled researchers capable of bridging academia and CSOs operating in biodiversity and conservation. This expertise facilitates future collaborations and ensures continued documentation of knowledge on civil society efforts in environmental conservation across West Africa and beyond. Research Focus The 2026 fellowship emphasizes documenting best practices and replicable models to promote regional development. Applications are particularly encouraged from candidates focusing on biodiversity and conservation. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: Leadership and governance in civil society organizations Technology for development Resource mobilization strategies Sustainability of civil society initiatives Internal organizational practices and systems Human resource management Policies and frameworks enabling civil society Community engagement strategies Equitable partnerships between West African CSOs and international donors Capacity strengthening for civil society organizations Eligibility The fellowship is open to young researchers from: Ghana Guinea Conakry Liberia Nigeria Senegal Eligibility considerations include: Current staff of organizations participating in WACSI’s biodiversity capacity strengthening programs are encouraged to apply. Young researchers seeking to develop research skills, even if not affiliated with the aforementioned programs, are welcome. Research topics must demonstrate relevance to biodiversity and conservation. Applicants must possess strong analytical and independent research skills. Fluency in English and/or French is required. Benefits Fellows receive a range of benefits to support successful research and knowledge documentation projects, including: Opportunity to publish in a recognized platform dedicated to civil society research in West Africa Production of at least one publishable research report, policy document, Issue Paper, Op-Ed, or blog article Assignment of experienced mentors to guide fellows throughout the program Monthly stipends and research allowances Development of a WACSeries publication hosted on WACSI’s website Free access to WACSI publications Skills and knowledge acquisition to enhance career planning and professional growth Deliverables Fellows are expected to: Contribute to ongoing research conducted or commissioned by WACSI Produce at least one article highlighting best practices, case studies, or success stories within biodiversity and conservation Fellowship Duration The 2026 fellowship will run for six months, from May to October, with potential adjustments based on alignment with the candidate’s academic, research, and professional goals. Selection may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Application Process and Deadlines Interested candidates must submit: A motivation letter outlining the proposed theme and fellowship duration Curriculum vitae A one-page synopsis detailing the research approach and plans to meet deliverables Sample authored article or evidence of prior publications Applications should be sent via email to research@wacsi.org no later than 13 March 2026. Key Timelines 23 February 2026: Applications open 13 March 2026: Application deadline 27 March 2026: Shortlisted applicants notified 2 April 2026: Interviews conducted 9 April 2026: Selection feedback provided 4 May 2026: Fellowship commences Testimonials from Past Fellows “I had no research background, but now I can take on any research project. WACSI trusted my potential, and my mentor was always available to guide me.” – Samira Seidu, Research Fellow 2023 “I joined to enhance my research skills and discovered the contributions of many CSOs that had not been documented. My mentor helped shape my work, and I gained valuable insight into social impact research.” – Anna Batsa, Research Fellow 2022 Past Fellows’ Publications Dr Solomon Amoah (Ghana) Kassim Muhammad Sani (Nigeria) Ruwadzano Patience Makumbe (Zimbabwe) Rachad Bani (Benin) VIEW THE CALL FOR APPLICATION 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 the 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.