Hey future changemakers and storytellers! Are you a journalist from Southern Africa dreaming of expanding your horizons and making a global impact? Then buckle up, because the International Journalists‘ Programmes (IJP) Southern-African Journalists’ Fellowship Programme 2026 is calling your name! This incredible bursary is your ticket to a two-month immersive experience in Germany, designed to help you dive deep into German society, culture, and media, while also bringing fresh perspectives back home.
The IJP Southern-African Journalists’ Fellowship Programme, named in honour of former Federal President Horst Köhler, is more than just a bursary – it’s an exchange! It’s a fantastic initiative aimed at fostering a deeper understanding between Germany and Southern Africa as a whole. If you’re a young, talented journalist from one of the SADC member states or Kenya, this bursary gives you a unique chance to work directly in a German newsroom. Imagine gaining hands-on international experience, researching compelling stories, and building a network that spans continents!
This fellowship helps you explore Germany’s political, economic, cultural, and social landscape firsthand. You’ll be integrated into the daily life of a German media organisation, getting a real feel for international journalism and bringing back invaluable insights to your home country.
Who Can Apply?
Are you ready to pack your bags for Germany? Here’s who the IJP team is looking for:
- Journalists from Southern Africa (SADC-Member States: Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe) plus Kenya.
- You should be between 25 and 40 years old.
- You need to be regularly working for a media organisation.
What Does It Cover?
This bursary is designed to support you during your exciting two-month journey in Germany. Here’s what you can expect:
- A fixed payment of 3,500 Euro. This generous stipend is intended to cover most of your travel, accommodation, and living expenses during your stay.
- Please note that no further payments are made, so you’ll need to cover any additional costs yourself. Also, payment for your work with the host media isn’t part of the stipend.
- To receive the full grant, you’ll be asked to submit a report of at least three pages and provide copies of your published journalistic work after you return home.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump into this incredible opportunity? Here’s a breakdown of what you need for your application. Make sure to send all documents via email.
- Your CV: Include a professional passport photograph.
- An 800-word Essay: This is your chance to shine! Address these topics:
- Why you want to work in Germany.
- Three research topics you plan to pursue during the fellowship.
- The role you envision playing at your home media organisation in the future.
- How you plan to manage the bursary funds.
- One-page Resume: Detail your education, work experience, and your proficiency in German and English (include copies of certificates if you have them, e.g., Goethe Institute/TOEFL).
- Two Work Samples: Submit two articles you’ve written. If you’re a TV or radio journalist, provide manuscripts or links (audio/video tapes cannot be considered).
- Journalistic Reference: Get a reference letter from your editor or head of department. Freelancers should get one from a senior journalist. This letter should also guarantee your leave of absence for the duration of the programme.
The application period runs from November 1st, 2025, until January 15th, 2026. You can find more detailed information and the official application link below:
Apply for the IJP Southern-African Journalists’ Fellowship Programme 2026 Here!
If you’re a Southern African journalist ready to broaden your horizons and make a real impact, this fellowship is a golden opportunity! Don’t let this chance pass you by. Get your application ready, polish that essay, and send it in before the deadline. While you’re at it, why not explore more amazing bursaries on Bursaries Room?
