If you are an aspiring digital policy leader passionate about shaping Africa’s digital future, the TechForward Policy Fellowship 202 is your opportunity. Applications are now open for this Pan-African program, designed to empower professionals with the knowledge, tools, and networks necessary to influence the continent's digital transformation. Details in this article.
TechForward Policy Fellowship Summary
Delivery Mode: Hybrid (Virtual+ in-person)
Location: One-week in-person conference in African Country (TBA)
Organized By y: Africa Center for Digital Transformation (ACDT)
Level: Early- to mid-career professionals and graduates
Funding Type: Fully funded program
Duration: Three months (March–May 2025)
Application Deadline: January 24, 2025
Eligibility: Open to African citizens aged 18–30 with relevant academic qualifications and experience in digital policy or related fields
Fellowship Overview
The TechForward Policy Fellowship is a three-month hybrid program aimed at addressing Africa’s digital policy challenges by developing skilled professionals capable of designing and implementing effective strategies. Organized by ACDT, the fellowship fosters innovative, sustainable, and inclusive policies to drive Africa’s socio-economic growth through digital transformation.
The fellowship prioritizes diversity by encouraging applications from historically marginalized groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities. Successful candidates will join a cohort of 15 fellows from across Africa, working to drive the continent’s digital transformation.
Fellowship Goals
Equip fellows with tools and best practices to promote digital innovation.
Foster collaboration among policymakers, innovators, and civil society leaders.
Provide hands-on experience through mentorship, real-world case studies, and site visits.
Enhance understanding of the ethical, legal, and regulatory aspects of digital policies.
Fellowship Structure
1). Tracks
Fellows choose one of the following specializations:
Legal and Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
Cybersecurity and Data Protection
Digital Public Infrastructure & ICT Infrastructure
Green and Digital-Twin Transition
2). Capstone Project
Design and implement a policy project addressing a key issue in their chosen track.
3). Virtual Program
Includes expert workshops, policy clinics, and mentoring sessions.
3). In-Person Conference
A fully funded one-week conference featuring global experts and networking opportunities.
Fellowship Benefits and coverage
Free of charge: Access to the full programme at no cost
Conference: Fully Funded 1-week in-person conference in an African country including travel, accommodation, and other associated costs.
Research Exchange Program: Top five fellows will participate in exchange programs with partner universities.
Skill Development: Training in research, policy analysis, public speaking, and advocacy.
Networking Opportunities: Connections with peers, mentors, and industry leaders, plus membership in an international alumni community.
Career Advancement: Exposure to high-level policy discussions and career opportunities.
Certificate of Participation: Official recognition and recommendation letters for fellows.
TechForward Policy Fellowship Eligibility
Age: 18–30 years
Education: Bachelor’s degree in technology, public policy, economics, or related fields (or IT certifications).
Experience: At least two years in digital policy, advocacy, or technology-related fields.
Language: Proficiency in English (written and verbal).
Commitment: Ability to dedicate four hours weekly for fellowship activities.
Application Procedure
Applications for the TechForward Policy Fellowship 2025 are submitted online by filling this online application form.
📂 Application Materials
Personal statement (200 words or a 2-minute video).
One-page CV highlighting academic and professional experience.
Abstract of a project idea (one page) addressing digital policy challenges in Africa.
🗓️ Timeline
Application Deadline: January 24, 2025
Selection Notifications: February 2025
Program Start: March 2025
In-Person Conference: August/September 2025
🔗 OFFICIAL APPLICATION LINK
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