Application Deadline: April 5, 2026
Applications are currently being accepted for the 2026 cohort of the FUNGAI Africa DPI Governance in Africa Fellowship. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)—encompassing identity management systems, data platforms, and digital service portals—is fundamentally transforming the relationship between governments and citizens. However, DPI is not inherently neutral; it holds the power either to exacerbate social inequalities or to promote justice and equity. This fellowship is designed to empower a new wave of African scholars to critically examine DPI through lenses focused on human rights and democratic values.
Purpose and Goals of the Fellowship
By the conclusion of the fellowship, participants will gain the ability to:
- Critically assess DPI governance using frameworks rooted in social justice and human rights principles.
- Explore the impacts of DPI on marginalized groups such as women, refugees, rural communities, and persons with disabilities.
- Implement best practices in digital security, particularly when conducting sensitive research.
- Convert complex research insights into policy recommendations, advocacy messages, and outputs accessible to the public.
- Become part of an expanding network that connects African experts in digital rights and policy.
Who Should Apply?
- Early-career researchers with interests in digital governance
- Advocates focused on digital rights issues
- Policy analysts and thinkers engaged in technology and governance
- Anyone deeply passionate about the intersection of technology, justice, and governance in Africa
Applications for the DPI Governance in Africa Fellowship are now open, inviting motivated candidates to join this impactful programme.
Fellowship Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Fellows | 3 early-career researchers |
| Duration | June to August 2026 (3 months) |
| Format | Remote, part-time (15–20 hours per week) |
| Stipend | $300 per month (totaling $900 for the fellowship) |
| Engagement | Bi-weekly virtual seminars |
| Focus Countries | Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia, Rwanda, Tanzania |
Programme Curriculum Overview
Month 1: Foundations & Frameworks
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes DPI and its significance in democratic governance and emerging AI technologies.
- Study rights-based frameworks emphasizing legality, transparency, and accountability within DPI governance.
- Learn research methodologies including conducting interviews, analyzing documents, addressing ethics, and ensuring digital security.
- Develop comparative research designs tailored to country contexts.
- Produce initial outputs such as country-specific research protocols and stakeholder maps.
Month 2: Field Research & Documentation
- Conduct interviews and manage sensitive conversations with key stakeholders.
- Analyze relevant policies, contracts, and legislation that influence DPI.
- Handle data carefully, including transcription, coding, and secure storage of sensitive information.
- Participate in a mid-program peer review and reflective session to assess progress.
- Create field notes, interview transcripts, and draft preliminary findings.
Month 3: Analysis & Translation
- Transform collected data into structured, rigorous analysis.
- Develop advocacy-oriented writing such as policy briefs, toolkits, and public-facing reports.
- Engage in peer reviews to refine outputs.
- Carry out cross-country comparisons and synthesize findings.
- Finalize case studies and produce policy-related deliverables.
Expected Fellow Contributions
Throughout the fellowship, participants will contribute to the creation of a robust body of work including:
- A comprehensive DPI Research Report featuring detailed country case studies and synthesis.
- An Advocacy Toolkit focused on DPI governance.
- Policy briefs tailored to each focus country.
- Press summaries and other public messaging materials to raise awareness.
- Published opinion articles and thought leadership pieces.
This fellowship is committed to shaping Africa’s digital future based on the pillars of:
- Justice
- Human Rights
- Inclusion
- Accountability
For further details and to apply, please Visit the Official Webpage of the FUNGAI Africa DPI Governance in Africa Fellowship.
