Hey future changemakers! Ever dreamed of making a real difference in West Africa’s future? If you’re a young, ambitious West African eager to tackle big challenges like security, gender, and governance, then this incredible opportunity is for you! The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme isn’t just a learning experience; it’s a fully-funded chance to kickstart your career in policy-making, right from Dakar, Senegal.
This programme, a collaboration between the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the Bosch Foundation, is all about empowering the next generation of policy leaders, especially young women from West Africa. As an ISS Junior Fellow, you’ll spend 10 months immersed in real-world policy work, understanding governance challenges, and crafting solutions alongside leading African experts. Imagine having direct access to top decision-makers and building connections that could unlock countless career opportunities in human security policy!
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this game-changing programme, you need to tick a few boxes:
- You must be a citizen of any West African country.
- You need to be under 30 years of age.
- Hold a Master’s degree in international relations, political science, law, anthropology, sociology, or a related field.
- Have a genuine passion and strong interest in security, gender, democracy, governance, or geopolitics.
- Be fluent in either English or French (knowing additional West African languages is a super plus!).
- Be a confident communicator, self-motivated, and ready to grow within a dynamic team environment.
Heads up: Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply – this programme is actively looking to boost women’s representation in policy leadership!
What Does It Cover?
This is a fully-funded opportunity, meaning a lot of your worries are taken care of so you can focus on learning and making an impact! Here’s what you can expect:
- A comfortable monthly stipend to cover your living expenses.
- Health insurance for peace of mind during your fellowship.
- Accommodation provided for you in Dakar.
- A return flight to and from your home country.
- Professional mentorship from seasoned ISS researchers who are experts in their fields.
- Access to a vibrant fellowship network and exciting career opportunities right across Africa.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump on this incredible opportunity? Applying is straightforward! Make sure you gather all your documents and send them in before the deadline.
Email your complete application to Souleymane Ndiaye at s.ndiaye@issafrica.org by 1 August 2025.
Your application package MUST include these three things:
- A compelling motivational cover letter explaining why you’re the perfect fit.
- A detailed CV (Curriculum Vitae) with the contact details of three professional references.
- A scanned copy of your ID or passport.
For more detailed information and to visit the official page, click here: Visit the Official Webpage of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme
If this sounds like the right bursary for you and you meet the criteria, don’t wait — apply now and take the first step towards a impactful career in policy! Even if this specific opportunity isn’t for you, explore more bursaries for South African students right here on Bursaries Room!