Apply Now: WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 for West African Researchers (Fully Funded)

 

Are you a passionate young researcher from West Africa looking to bridge the gap between academia and real-world impact? Do you have an interest in biodiversity, conservation, and the role of indigenous knowledge in shaping policy? The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) Research Fellowship 2026 is now accepting applications, offering a unique opportunity to develop your skills while contributing to critical research in the region.

This fully funded six-month fellowship (May – October 2026) is designed to cultivate a new generation of well-trained researchers who understand the intersection between academia and civil society organizations (CSOs), with a special focus this year on the biodiversity and conservation sector.

Here is everything you need to know about the WACSI Research Fellowship 2026, including eligibility criteria, benefits, research focus, and the application deadline.

About WACSI

The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) is a premier resource hub dedicated to reinforcing the institutional, operational, and knowledge capacities of civil society in West Africa. By serving as a center for training, research, documentation, and policy dialogue, WACSI plays a pivotal role in strengthening organized civil society across the region. The Research Fellowship is a core part of this mission, designed to identify and hone the skills of young researchers who are passionate about driving change.

Fellowship Focus: Indigenous Knowledge & Biodiversity

This year’s fellowship theme is particularly timely and vital. Priority will be given to the documentation of indigenous knowledge within the biodiversity and conservation sector.

What is Indigenous Knowledge?

In this context, indigenous knowledge refers to the unique, traditional knowledge systems, practices, beliefs, and innovations that have been developed and passed down through generations within indigenous communities. For civil society, this knowledge is invaluable. It can inform and enrich the work of NGOs and CSOs, helping them to craft more effective advocacy strategies and positively influence the fight against climate change.

Fellows will explore how CSOs can integrate these traditional practices into modern conservation efforts, highlight the contributions of organizations promoting environmental conservation, and document best practices that can be replicated across the region.

Research Themes for 2026

Candidates are encouraged to submit proposals related to topical issues in biodiversity and conservation. While the focus is on these areas, WACSI welcomes applications and contributions related to, but not strictly limited to, the following topics:

Leadership and Governance for civil society organizations

Technology for Development

Resource Mobilisation

Civil Society Sustainability

Working Practices and Internal Systems

Human Resource Management

Enabling environment for civil society

Community Engagement

Equitable partnerships between West African CSOs and their donors/INGOs

Capacity strengthening for civil society in West Africa

The key requirement is that applicants must show a strong correlation between their intended topic of interest and its relevance and applicability within the biodiversity and conservation sector.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

The WACSI Research Fellowship is open to dynamic and analytical young researchers from specific West African countries. To be considered, you must meet the following criteria:

Country of Residence: You must be a researcher from one of the following countries:

Ghana

Guinea Conakry

Liberia

Nigeria

Senegal

Professional Background:

Current staff of organizations that are part of WACSI’s capacity strengthening programme for organizations in the biodiversity sector are strongly encouraged to apply.

However, the fellowship is not exclusive. If you are interested in honing your research skills and are not part of the aforementioned programme, you are also welcome to apply.

Core Competencies:

Relevance: Your intended research topic must demonstrate a clear link to the biodiversity and conservation sector.

Analytical Skills: You must possess strong analytical skills and the ability to perform independent research.

Language Proficiency: Applicants must be able to communicate fluently in either English and/or French.

Fellowship Benefits: Why Apply?

Selected fellows will gain far more than just research experience. The WACSI fellowship offers a comprehensive package of benefits designed to launch your career and amplify your voice.

Financial Support: Fellows will receive monthly stipends and a research allowance from the institute to support their work and living expenses during the six-month period.

Mentorship: You will be assigned to experienced mentors who will guide you through your research project, providing expert advice and professional support.

Publication Opportunity: Your work will be featured on a globally acclaimed platform. Fellows are guaranteed the production of at least one publishable research report or policy document. This can be an Issue Paper, an Op-Ed, or blog articles (WACSeries publications), which will be published on the institute’s website.

Professional Growth: The fellowship provides a wealth of opportunities to build professional networks, gain practical experience in the civil society sector, and develop skills that are essential for your future career.

Knowledge Resources: You will receive free access to all of WACSI's publications, giving you a solid foundation of knowledge about civil society in West Africa.

Impact: Your research findings will be used to promote good practices in West Africa and beyond, contributing to the development of effective strategies and policies that address community needs.

Key Deliverables

During the six-month fellowship, successful candidates are expected to:

Contribute to ongoing research conducted and/or commissioned by the institute.

Publish at least one article on best practices, case studies, and/or success stories within the biodiversity and conservation sector.

How to Apply for the WACSI Fellowship 2026

The application process is straightforward. Interested candidates must submit a complete application package via email. Your submission should include the following documents:

A Motivation Letter: Stating your preferred duration and theme of interest.

A Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing your academic and professional background.

A One-Page Synopsis: A brief description (not more than one page) on your specific theme of interest. This synopsis should articulate how you intend to complete the fellowship and meet all deliverables within the duration.

A Writing Sample: Provide a sample of an authored article or paper. If you have any published works, please provide evidence of them.

Where to Send Your Application:

Please submit your application via email to Mabel Shu at mlum@wacsi.org. You must also CC the following contacts on the email:

Jimm Chick Fomunjong: jcfomunjong@wacsi.org

Nancy Kankam Kusi: nkusi@wacsi.org

Important Deadlines and Timeline

Mark your calendars! The selection process for the 2026 fellowship is strict and time-bound.

Application Opens: 23 February 2026

Application Deadline: 13 March 2026 (All applications must be submitted by this date)

Shortlisting Notification: 27 March 2026 (Shortlisted applicants will be notified by email)

Interviews: 02 April 2026

Final Selection Feedback: 09 April 2026

Fellowship Begins: 04 May 2026

Conclusion

The WACSI Research Fellowship 2026 is more than just a research opportunity; it is a platform for emerging leaders to make a tangible difference in West Africa’s development landscape. By focusing on the critical intersection of indigenous knowledge, biodiversity, and civil society, this fellowship offers a chance to contribute to meaningful change while building a powerful professional portfolio.

If you have the passion and the analytical skills to document best practices and influence policy, do not hesitate. Prepare your application today and take the next step in your research career.

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