The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 for  young West Africans (Fully Funded to Dakar, Senegal)

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Application Deadline: May 10, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme. The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the Bosch Foundation are empowering West Africa’s next generation of policy leaders through a flagship programme on ‘Gender, human security and geopolitics’. Exceptional young West Africans (especially women) are invited to apply for the first intake of four fellows.

As a fellow, you will spend 10 months working with leading African experts in Dakar to understand the governance challenges preventing West Africa from reaching its full potential. You will gain rare access to top decision makers and help craft policy solutions. Fellows have a unique opportunity to build connections that unlock various careers in human security policy making and practice.

Requirements

• Be a citizen of any West African country
• Be under 30 years of age
• Hold a Master’s degree in international relations, political science, law, anthropology, sociology, or related fields
• Have a strong interest in security, gender, democracy, governance or geopolitics
• Be fluent in English or French; additional West African languages are a plus
• Be a confident communicator, self-motivated and eager to grow in a dynamic team

Benefits

• Monthly stipend plus health insurance
• Accommodation in Dakar
• Return flight to and from your home country
• Professional mentorship from experienced ISS researchers
• Access to a vibrant fellowship network and career opportunities across Africa

Program Details

• Conduct research into pressing security issues, including gender inequality and how political alliances in the region and world affect governance
• Attend workshops and seminars with policy makers and practitioners across the region
• Publish articles on your research, and collaborate with colleagues to write policy reports
• Debate problems and solutions with a multicultural team of leading analysts
• Present weekly updates on top political and security developments in West Africa
• Interact directly with government and other officials in decision-making positions

How to apply

Email your complete application to Souleymane Ndiaye at [email protected].

Your application must include:

• A motivational cover letter
• A detailed CV with three references
• A copy of your Master’s degree
• A scanned ID or passport copy

Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Junior Fellowship Programme