The Africa Center for Digital Transformation (ACDT) has unveiled its TechForward Policy Fellowship, a groundbreaking three-month hybrid program aimed at equipping young leaders with the tools, knowledge, and networks to drive Africa’s digital transformation. This initiative is designed to empower participants to create innovative, sustainable, and inclusive digital policies that address pressing challenges and advance economic growth across the continent.
A Fellowship for Visionaries
The TechForward Policy Fellowship is tailored for early and mid-career professionals with a passion for technology, public policy, and digital transformation. The upcoming Spring 2025 cohort will feature 15 fellows selected from a diverse pool of applicants across Africa, uniting bright minds with a shared commitment to shaping the continent’s digital future.
Participants will engage in a rich blend of:
- Expert Workshops: Insights from leading policymakers and tech innovators.
- Policy Clinics: Hands-on problem-solving sessions to tackle real-world challenges.
- Mentorship Sessions: Guidance from seasoned professionals in technology and policy.
- Capstone Projects: Implementation of innovative solutions addressing digital policy issues.
- In-Person Policy Conference: A fully funded event featuring global experts and thought leaders.
Eligibility and Application Details
The fellowship targets individuals eager to make an impact in the intersection of technology and policy. Eligible candidates include:
- Recent Graduates with degrees in technology, public policy, economics, or social sciences.
- Early-career professionals with at least two years of experience in advocacy, policy, or technology.
- Activists and Civil Society Members focused on community-driven technological development.
- Entrepreneurs and Innovators solving local challenges through technology.
- Historically Marginalized Groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be aged 18–30 years.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent IT certification.
- Be citizens of an African country (residents abroad are eligible).
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (written and spoken).
- Show interest or experience in digital policies, advocacy, or related fields.
- Commit to fellowship activities for a minimum of 4 hours per week.
Read also: Applications now open for 4th Visa Africa Fintech Accelerator.
Key Dates and Application Process
- January: Applications open.
- February: Application review and interviews.
- Third Week of February: Decisions announced via email.
- First Week of March: Virtual kickoff.
- March-May: Remote fellowship activities.
- August/September: In-person policy conference (location TBD).
To apply, candidates must submit the following via the official application portal:
- A Personal Statement (200 words or a 2-minute video) outlining their interest in digital policies and fellowship goals.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) limited to one page.
- A Project Abstract (one page) addressing a digital policy issue under one of the following tracks:
- Legal and Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity and Data Protection
- Digital Public Infrastructure & ICT Infrastructure
- Green and Digital-Twin Transition
Applications close on January 24, 2025.
Why Join the TechForward Policy Fellowship?
Fellows will gain hands-on experience in digital policy development while specializing in one of four critical policy areas. They will also:
- Collaborate with Experts: Network with global leaders in technology and policymaking.
- Shape Africa’s Digital Future: Contribute to transformative initiatives addressing the continent’s challenges.
- Attend a Premier Policy Conference: Engage in high-level discussions and share insights with industry professionals.
How to Apply
Aspiring fellows can apply by visiting the official application portal here. Don’t miss this opportunity to be at the forefront of Africa’s digital transformation. Applications close on January 24, 2025.
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