The Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship—a remote, part-time fellowship program designed to empower Africa’s next generation of data policy leaders.
This 3-month, fully virtual fellowship brings together early-career professionals, researchers, and changemakers from across the continent to build expertise in data governance, digital public infrastructure, ethical innovation, and more.
With participants drawn from all five African sub-regions, the fellowship emphasizes inclusion, regional diversity, and real-world impact. Fellows will receive expert mentorship, participate in masterclasses, and publish a policy brief on a key data-related issue affecting their region.
Quick Summary: CSEA 2025 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship
| Program Name | Africa’s Data Future Fellowship 2025 |
| Organizer | Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) |
| Type | Virtual Fellowship |
| Start Date | Mid-August 2025 |
| Duration | 3 Months |
| Application Deadline | July 30, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Postgraduates with experience in data, tech, or policy |
| Stipend | $1,500 upon completion |
| Language | English & French (Intermediate English required) |
| Participation | 2 hours per week (bi-weekly virtual sessions) |
Fellowship Objectives and Benefits
The Africa’s Data Future Fellowship aims to:
- Build capacity for emerging leaders in data governance across Africa
- Equip fellows with practical knowledge on digital policy, AI, interoperability, and ethical data practices
- Promote regional collaboration and peer learning
- Encourage evidence-based policy development
Fellowship Benefits:
- $1,500 stipend upon successful completion
- Access to bi-weekly virtual masterclasses with sector experts
- Opportunity to present findings at a final workshop
- Fellows’ work published on CSEA’s platforms
- Membership in a Pan-African professional network
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a postgraduate degree and have at least one year of professional experience in fields like data governance, law, technology, digital policy, or social sciences
- Be based in Africa, with representation from North, West, East, Central, and Southern Africa
- Demonstrate interest and experience in data governance or digital transformation
- Have reliable internet access and a functional computer
- Be able to dedicate 2 hours per week throughout the 3-month program
Francophone applicants with intermediate English proficiency are encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Themes
Participants will engage with key issues shaping Africa’s digital and data future, including:
- Ethical Data Stewardship
- Digital Public Infrastructure
- AI Governance and Responsible Innovation
- Data Sharing
- Cross-Border Data Flows
- Interoperability Standards and APIs
Required Application Materials
To apply, candidates must submit the following via the online application form:
- Completed Application Form
- 2-page CV
- Statement of Interest (Max 200 words)
- Problem Statement related to a data challenge in your sub-region (Max 300 words)
- Writing Sample (e.g., policy brief or research paper)
Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by: July 30, 2025
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can apply online through the CSEA Fellowship Application Form. Ensure that all components of your application are submitted in English.
For further details, visit the official fellowship page on CSEA’s website.
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply?
Anyone with a postgraduate degree and at least one year of experience in a relevant field (technology, law, policy, data governance) based in Africa.
Is the fellowship fully remote?
Yes, the entire fellowship is delivered online. You only need a stable internet connection and a computer.
How many fellows will be selected?
Five fellows will be chosen—one from each African sub-region (North, West, East, Central, and Southern Africa).
Do I need to speak French or English?
The primary language of instruction is English, but Francophone applicants with intermediate English are welcome to apply.
Is there any cost to apply?
No. Application and participation in the fellowship are completely free.
What is expected from fellows?
Fellows must attend bi-weekly sessions, engage with mentors, and complete a policy brief by the end of the program.
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