AI Ethics & Governance Fellowship 2026
About this scholarship
A fully funded 12-week virtual fellowship for African professionals working at the intersection of AI, ethics, policy, and governance.
The AI Ethics & Governance Fellowship is a fully funded, 12-week virtual professional fellowship for African professionals interested in shaping responsible AI policy and governance on the continent. It is organized by the Policy Innovation Centre (PIC) in partnership with the Africa Hub for Innovation & Development (AHFID), with support mentioned in the reference posting from Luminate.
The programme is designed for professionals in policy, research, law, technology, and related fields who want to strengthen their understanding of ethical AI systems and governance frameworks. Participants receive advanced training in AI ethics, policy, and governance, mentorship from African and global experts, and the opportunity to complete a practical capstone project aimed at real policy impact.
As a virtual fellowship, it does not require relocation and can be accessed from across Africa. The programme is especially relevant for researchers, policy makers, legal professionals, and technology leaders who are already influencing or implementing policy, regulation, or responsible technology practice. Women and young professionals are strongly encouraged to apply.
The fellowship is fully funded in the sense that there are no tuition or participation fees. Participants also gain access to mentorship, a certificate of completion, and a pan-African professional and alumni network. Applicants should be prepared to commit approximately 6–8 hours per week over the three-month programme and must have reliable internet access, a laptop, and proficiency in English.
Applications are typically submitted online through the organiser's published application channel. Prospective applicants should review the current call carefully for cohort-specific eligibility, selection criteria, and required submission materials.
Eligibility
Who can apply for this scholarship
Applicants must be Nigerian or other African citizens residing in Africa. They should demonstrate interest or experience in AI, digital policy, ethics, governance, or technology regulation, and typically be working in roles that influence or implement policy, research, law, or technology practice. Applicants must be able to commit 6–8 hours per week for 3 months, have reliable internet access and a laptop, and be proficient in English. Women and youths are strongly encouraged to apply.
Requirements
Documents typically needed to apply
Language requirements
Proficiency in English
