Applications are now open for the fully funded Africa CDC/AVMI 2026 Industrial Fellowship Programme in Vaccine Manufacturing. This program offers recent African graduates a rare chance to gain hands-on skills in vaccine production. Africa faces a big shortage of experts in this field right now. The fellowship helps build the workforce needed to make more vaccines on the continent.
This article covers the program overview, eligibility rules, benefits, selection steps, timeline, and how to apply. It aims to guide you through this exciting opportunity.
What is the Africa CDC/AVMI 2026 Industrial Fellowship Programme?
The Africa CDC/AVMI 2026 Industrial Fellowship Programme in Vaccine Manufacturing trains new graduates to grow Africa’s vaccine industry. The continent needs to expand its vaccine workforce from 2,000 to 3,000 full-time workers today to about 12,500 by 2040. Many current experts focus on research, not full vaccine production. This leaves gaps in key areas like drug substance creation and manufacturing research.
Fellows get one year of real-world training at vaccine sites in Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa. The focus stays on current Good Manufacturing Practices, or cGMP, and skills from Africa CDC guides. Here are the main goals:
- Fill the lack of talent in vaccine development and production.
- Build skills in drug substance manufacturing and related research.
- Quadruple the workforce to meet long-term vaccine goals for Africa.
- Train people fully dedicated to vaccine work.
Eligibility Requirements
This fellowship targets recent graduates who finished their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree no more than three years ago. They must come from certain fields tied to vaccine making.
Fields of study:
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomanufacturing or Vaccine Manufacturing
Personal qualifications:
- Citizen of an African Union member state
- Hold a valid passport
- Available to work in Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa
- Proficient in English or French
Benefits of the Fellowship
Africa CDC funds the whole program. Fellows receive full support to focus on their training without money worries. Key perks include:
- Return flight tickets to the training site
- A basic stipend for daily living costs
- Coverage of visa fees
- Help with documents needed for visa applications
Selection Process
A committee from Africa CDC, PHAHM, and AVMI reviews all applications. They pick the top candidates based on fit for the program. Only 14 fellows will join this year. Selected people get contacted for next steps.
Africa CDC welcomes applications from all qualified people in AU member states. This includes all genders, races, abilities, religions, castes, or marital statuses. Women get special encouragement to apply.
Application Timeline
Stay on track with these key dates. The table below lists them clearly.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 30 April 2026 |
| Notification of Selected Candidates | 15 May 2026 |
How to Apply
Start by checking if you meet the requirements. Then follow these steps to submit your application.
- Visit the official Africa CDC webpage for full details and the application form.
- Gather your documents, like your degree, passport, and proof of language skills.
- Submit everything before the deadline on 30 April 2026.
For questions, email [email protected]. The program offers equal chances to all who qualify.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Africa CDC/AVMI 2026 Fellowship Programme?
It’s a fully funded one-year training program for recent graduates to gain skills in vaccine manufacturing at sites in Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa.
Who is eligible to apply?
Recent Bachelor’s or Master’s graduates (within three years) from fields like pharmacy or chemical engineering, who are AU citizens with a valid passport and English or French proficiency.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
It covers return flights, a daily stipend, visa fees, and document support so fellows can focus on training.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Visit the official Africa CDC webpage, gather your degree, passport, and language proof, and submit before April 30, 2026.

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