2025 AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass Fellowship in South Africa

Overview

Applications are now open for the 2025 AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass, organized by the Wits Centre for Journalism in partnership with SKUP (Norway) and Bellingcat. This three-day masterclass will focus on digital forensics, OSINT tools, AI, and data verification, and will be held from 2 to 4 November 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa, just before the AIJC conference (5–7 November). Participants will also attend the AIJC conference and training sessions. The program targets experienced investigative journalists, editors, and trainers from across Africa.

Application deadline: 25 July 2025

Scholarship Categories

• Investigative Journalism
• Digital Forensics
• OSINT & AI Verification Tools

2025 AIJC Investigative Journalism Masterclass Fellowship in South Africa: Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an experienced African investigative journalist, editor, or journalism trainer
• Must demonstrate a strong track record and recent work in investigative journalism
• Must possess a valid passport and arrange their own visa if required
• Must be available to travel between 31 October and 10 November 2025

Documents Required

• Updated CV
• Personal statement or application responses (usually within the form)
• Links or samples of investigative journalism work
• Proof of experience in journalism or media training

Important Notes

• The fellowship covers:
– Masterclass tuition
– AIJC 2025 conference attendance
• Additional support may include travel and accommodation, but not:
– Local transport in the home country
– Visa, insurance, or incidental costs

Selection Process

Candidates will be selected based on experience, quality of recent work, and relevance to investigative journalism training. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted before the end of August 2025.

Benefits

• Free attendance at AIJC masterclass (2–4 November 2025)
• Free pass to AIJC conference (5–7 November 2025)
• Travel and accommodation support (on request and approval)
• Training by Bellingcat on digital forensics, OSINT, AI, and verification tools
• Networking with top investigative journalists from Africa and beyond