African Union (AU) Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program 2026 for African Tech Innovators (Fully Funded to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)

Application Deadline: February 2026

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 cohort of the African Union (AU) Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program. This prestigious fellowship is a comprehensive 12-month initiative designed to empower Africa’s top digital innovators by embedding them within African Union institutions. Throughout the program, fellows engage in hands-on placements alongside AU teams, receiving customized capacity-building opportunities, professional growth, international exposure, and financial support for the entire duration.

The fellowship aims to collaboratively develop technology-driven and data-centric solutions with AU personnel, addressing specific challenges and bridging technological gaps. The ultimate goal is to reinforce governance, enhance public service delivery, and boost institutional capabilities across all AU entities. Since its inception in 2021, the program has actively contributed to advancing the AU’s Digital Transformation Strategy and aligns with the broader objectives of Agenda 2063, creating practical avenues for Africa’s youth to participate in continental governance and innovation in the public sector.

12 Fellows United for Digital Transformation and Effective Governance

Launching its third batch in April 2026, the AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship continues to cultivate a dynamic pool of African young leaders. For this upcoming cohort, 12 fellows will be selected from diverse specialization areas, working at the crossroads of technology, data analytics, innovation, and public sector reform, strictly following predefined selection criteria.

Fellows will be tasked with critically examining existing systems, pinpointing inefficiencies or bottlenecks, and co-creating innovative solutions in collaboration with AU teams. The focus includes enhancing data management protocols, improving citizen engagement mechanisms, and optimizing operational workflows within AU institutions.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship invites applications from young African digital innovators eager to contribute to transformative digital projects within AU structures. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:

• Be a national of one of the African Union member states and currently residing within Africa
• Be under the age of 35 at the time of application submission
• Hold a tertiary academic qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
• Possess strong problem-solving abilities and demonstrate a capacity to propose innovative, tech-based solutions
• Have prior experience in developing or implementing technology products or data-driven initiatives, including familiarity with relevant technological tools or software stacks
• Commit to a 12-month fellowship tenure, including relocation to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
• Be willing and able to travel for mandatory bootcamps, delegation visits, and other program-related activities
• Have a proficient command of English for active participation; knowledge of another AU official language—Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili—is highly advantageous

The fellowship strongly encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and other historically underrepresented groups to foster diversity, inclusivity, and broader perspectives within the cohort.

What Does the Fellowship Offer?

The AU Digital & Innovation Fellowship is a fully funded program that provides a range of benefits including:

Financial Support

• A monthly stipend of €2,500 to cover living expenses and professional costs
• An equipment allowance of up to €800 to acquire essential tools and resources
• An individual learning budget of €500 dedicated to skill development and training

Professional Growth

• Access to structured capacity-building sessions and mentorship from seasoned experts in technology and innovation
• Opportunities for peer learning and engagement with influential continental and international stakeholders

Institutional Immersion

• Placements within various AU departments, enabling fellows to co-create impactful tech and data solutions
• Direct involvement in meaningful governance and digital transformation initiatives

Networking and Global Exposure

• Fully funded bootcamps held in Addis Ababa for intensive training and collaboration
• An international delegation trip to Germany to broaden global perspectives and partnerships
• Access to a wide continental ecosystem, connecting fellows with policymakers, tech innovators, and strategic partners

Recognition

• Official certification upon completion and alumni status that can enhance future career paths and opportunities

How to Apply

The fellowship operates a rigorous selection and placement process that aligns with the AU’s institutional priorities. Applicants should follow these steps:

Explore Available Fellowship Opportunities

All open fellowship roles are listed on the Job Postings page. Carefully review each position to understand its thematic focus, responsibilities, and eligibility to identify the best fit for your skills and interests.

Understand Focus Areas and Requirements

Each fellowship role defines specific focus areas and prerequisites. It is essential to study these details thoroughly to ensure your experience and profile align with the position’s expectations. This will help craft a compelling, targeted application.

Prepare Your Application Documents

Before submitting, gather all necessary materials:

• Current CV highlighting relevant technology, data, or digital innovation experience
• Scanned copy of your national ID or passport
• Summary or portfolio of previous digital projects (where applicable)

Submit Your Application

Applications must be completed and submitted exclusively through the Job Postings page. Partial or off-platform submissions will not be considered. For any application assistance, contact the support team via info@enpact.org.

Monitor Your Email

Within approximately three weeks, you will receive an email updating you on your application status. Successful candidates will be notified for interviews, while others will receive feedback. Be sure to check your spam folder regularly to avoid missing important communications.

Program Schedule

To access further details or begin your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the African Union (AU) Digital and Innovation Fellowship Program.