ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Programme 2025/2026 (Fully Funded Policy Fellowship in West Africa) 

ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Program 2025: Overview

The ISS Junior Fellowship Programme, in partnership with the Bosch Foundation, invites applications from exceptional young West Africans, especially women, who are passionate about gender, governance, security, and geopolitics. The 10-month fully funded fellowship takes place in Dakar, Senegal, and offers hands-on policy research experience, access to decision-makers, and professional mentorship from top African experts.

ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Program 2025: Benefits

✅ Monthly stipend
✅ Health insurance
✅ Accommodation in Dakar
✅ Return flight to/from your home country
✅ Professional mentorship from ISS researchers
✅ Access to a wide network of African policy professionals

Scholarship Categories

• Fellowship in Policy Research and Practice

• Focus areas: Gender, Human Security, Democracy, and Geopolitics

ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Program 2025: Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be under 30 years of age

• Be a citizen of any West African country

• Hold a Master’s degree in international relations, political science, law, anthropology, sociology, or a related field

• Show strong interest in gender, democracy, governance, security, or geopolitics

• Be fluent in English or French (other West African languages are a plus)

• Be confident, self-driven, and eager to grow in a multicultural policy environment

Documents Required

• CV

• Motivation letter

• Academic qualifications

• References (if requested)

• Any supporting documents that show relevant research or policy engagement

Important Notes

• The fellowship lasts 10 months

• The programme is hosted in Dakar, Senegal

• Women are strongly encouraged to apply

• Preference is given to applicants with demonstrated leadership and communication skills

ISS Dakar Junior Fellowship Program 2025: Responsibilities

• Conduct research on security, gender, and governance in West Africa

• Write and publish policy briefs and articles

• Present weekly updates on political and security trends

• Collaborate in team discussions and contribute to strategic solutions

• Attend regional workshops and seminars with policymakers

Selection Process

Applicants are selected based on:

• Academic merit and a relevant degree

• Clarity of motivation and leadership potential

• Passion for human security and governance

• Language proficiency and communication skills