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The United Nations Development Program (UNDP), in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) has launched the 2025 African Young Women Leaders Fellowship Program (AfYWL) for young women across Africa, including Nigerians. This prestigious 12-month fellowship provides young African women with the opportunity to work with the UNDP across various duty stations globally. Fellows will contribute to development efforts in Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Engagement, and will receive full sponsorship, including monthly stipends, accommodation, travel costs, and healthcare.
Fellowship Summary
*Host: African Union Commission (AUC) & UNDP
*Category: Internships | Training
*Eligible Countries: All African Union Member States
*Reward: Full Sponsorship | Monthly Living Stipend | Travel & Healthcare | Accommodation
*Language Test: No IELTS Required
*Deadline: June 1, 2025
*Scholarship Alerts: click HERE to receive alerts on Telegram
Fellowship Details
The AfYWL Fellowship aligns with the AUC Chairperson’s 1 Million Next Level Initiative and the UNDP’s Renewed Strategic Offer in Africa, focusing on six impact areas:
1. Natural Resource Governance
2. Youth and Women’s Employment and Empowerment
3. Structural Economic Transformation
4. Sustainable Energy
5. Climate Change
6. Peace and Security
The fourth cohort will consist of up to 40 fellows, each assigned to a UNDP office (HQ, Regional, or Country Office - no hardship posts). Fellows will engage in hands-on work and receive mentorship and structured development training.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must:
* Be female and a citizen of an African Union member state
* Have a Master’s degree or equivalent in fields such as Economics, Political Science, International Development, Business, Law, Communications, etc.
* Have no more than 2 years of paid relevant work experience after obtaining a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
* Be 30 years old or younger at the time of application
* Be available in late 2025 to relocate and begin the 12-month fellowship
* Demonstrate an understanding of the SDGs, Agenda 2063, and a strong commitment to development
* Have a strong working knowledge of English (proficiency in any AU language like French, Arabic, Portuguese, or Spanish is a plus)
Fellowship Benefits
* Monthly stipend to cover accommodation and basic living costs
*Paid leave and an earmarked learning budget
*Medical insurance and travel costs covered (for fellow only)
* Access to:
- Joint leadership induction training
- Mentorship from AUC and UNDP professionals
- Tailored learning programs and community events
- Field missions and project involvement
- Fellow Responsibilities
* Collect and analyze data related to SDGs and Agenda 2063
* Draft research papers, reports, and presentations
* Contribute to gender, youth, climate change, and resilience initiatives
* Assist with project implementation and liaise with stakeholders
* Attend internal and external conferences and field missions
How to Apply
1. Click the application link to access the UNDP Fellowship Portal.
2. If new, sign up for an account; otherwise, log in.
3. Complete and submit your application with all required details before June 1, 2025.
4. Ensure your profile aligns with the eligibility criteria outlined.