Application Deadline: 13 March 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) Research Fellowship Programme. The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) invites young researchers from Ghana, Guinea Conakry, Liberia, Nigeria and Senegal to apply for its 2026 Research Fellowship, running from May to October 2026. This six‑month programme strengthens the research, analytical and documentation skills of emerging scholars while contributing to WACSI’s mission of enhancing civil society in West Africa.
This year’s fellowship prioritises indigenous knowledge in biodiversity and conservation, encouraging research that highlights community practices, CSO contributions and replicable models that advance development across the region.
RESEARCH FOCUS
The focus of this year’s research is on documenting best practices and models that can be
replicated to promote development in the region. Candidates interested in working on
topical issues related to biodiversity and conservation are highly encouraged to apply. The institute
welcomes applications and contributions related to but not strictly limited to topics such as:
o Leadership and Governance for civil society organisations
o Technology for development,
o Resource mobilisation,
o Civil society sustainability,
o Working Practices and Internal Systems
o Human Resource Management
o Enabling environment for civil society,
o Community Engagement
o Equitable partnerships between civil society organisations in West Africa
and their donors and/or international non-governmental organisations
o Capacity strengthening for civil society in West Africa.
ELIGIBILITY
- The fellowship is open to young researchers from the following countries:
o Ghana
o Guinea Conakry
o Liberia
o Nigeria
o Senegal - Current staff of organisations that are part of the capacity strengthening programme for
organisations in the biodiversity sector are encouraged to apply - Those interested in honing their research skills and who may not necessarily be among the
organisations in the above mentioned programme are also encouraged to apply. - Contributors must show a strong correlation between their intended topic of interest and its
relevance and or applicability within the biodiversity and conservation sector. - Applicants must demonstrate strong analytical skills and the ability to perform independent
research. - Applicants must be able to communicate fluently either in English and/or French.
BENEFITS
Active participation in this fellowship offers fellows with a keen interest in biodiversity and
conservation access to a wide range of benefits to help successfully conduct their research or engage in a knowledge documentation project. Some specific benefits include but are not limited to the following: - Opportunity to publish in a well-read and globally acclaimed platform dedicated to research on
civil society in West Africa. - Production of at least one publishable research report or policy document on biodiversity and
conservation. This can be either an Issue Paper, an Op-Ed and/or blog articles. - Fellows will be assigned to mentors who will guide them throughout the fellowship
The research findings and the fellows’ experience will be used to promote good practices in West
Africa and beyond.
- Research fellows will receive monthly stipends and a research allowance from the institute.
- Fellows are provided with a wealth of opportunities, skills and knowledge to better plan for or
advance their future careers. - Candidates would develop at least one WACSeries publication that will be published on the
institute’s website. - Free access to WACSI’s publications.
DELIVERABLES
- Contribution to ongoing research conducted and/or commissioned by the institute.
- At least one article published on best practices, case studies and/or success stories within the
biodiversity and conservation sector.
FELLOWSHIP DURATION
The fellowship duration is six months (May – October 2026). This will be based on the alignment of the fellowship goals with the applicant’s current academic, career and/or research interests. However, applicants can be selected on a case-by-case basis.
APPLICATION PROCESS AND DEADLINE
Interested candidates should submit the following: - A motivation letter stating their duration and theme of interest.
- A curriculum vitae.
- A synopsis of not more than one page on the specific theme of interest to the potential fellow.
This should articulate how the candidate intends to complete the fellowship and meet up with
all deliverables within the fellowship duration. - Sample of an authored article or paper. Provide evidence of any published works if available.
Applications should be submitted via email to Mabel Shu ([email protected]) and cc Jimm Chick
Fomunjong ([email protected]) and Nancy Kankam Kusi ([email protected]
TIMELINES
- 23 February 2026: Application opens.
- 13 March 2026: Deadline for receipt of applications.
- 27 March 2026: Shortlisted applicants are notified by email.
- 02 April 2026: Interview with shortlisted applicants.
- 09 April 2026: Selected candidates will receive feedback on their applications.
- 04 May 2026: Beginning of the research fellowship.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the West Africa Civil Society Institute Research Fellowship Programme
