African scholars have a new chance to build skills in peace, security, and development. The African Leadership Centre Fellowships for African Scholars in Peace, Security and Development 2026 offer a degree-awarding program for those ready to shape Africa’s future. This 18-month opportunity blends academic study with real-world experience.
Program Overview
The fellowship targets young African professionals interested in leadership roles. It runs for 18 months and leads to a master’s degree in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding from King’s College London. Fellows take part in research, writing, and policy work on key issues.
A key part of the program is a six-month placement at an African university, regional body, or center of excellence. This hands-on time helps fellows apply what they learn. The setup includes group mentoring, simulations, one-on-one guidance, peer support, and site visits.
What Fellows Gain
By the end, participants earn a master’s degree plus strong research and mentoring skills. They build ties with top African experts in peace, security, and development. This network supports fellows as they push for better policies across the continent.
The program stresses African-led solutions. Fellows focus on independent thought, excellence, youth input, and diversity.
Who Can Apply
To qualify, meet these requirements:
- Hold citizenship from an African country.
- Have a valid passport if selected.
- Possess a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or equal work experience.
- Work as junior faculty in African universities, in fields like political science, international relations, history, law, development studies, peace studies, or similar.
- Show interest in peace, security, and development careers. Basic knowledge of these topics helps, but deep prior study is not needed.
- Prove ability to research African peace and security issues.
- Plan how to use the fellowship back home at your institution.
- Gain unconditional acceptance to the MSc in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding at King’s College London. Most African applicants need to pass an English language test for this.
Candidates must live by values like promoting African ideas, integrity, and respect for diversity.
How to Apply
Start your application online through the official portal. Prepare documents that highlight your fit for the program. Secure your spot in the King’s College London master’s program separately.
Visit the African Leadership Centre Fellowships page for full details and the application link.
Deadline: May 24, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the African Leadership Centre Fellowships?
You can apply if you are a citizen of an African country, work as junior faculty in relevant fields like political science or peace studies, and have a bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent experience.
What is the duration and structure of the program?
The fellowship lasts 18 months and includes academic study for a master’s degree, plus a six-month placement at an African university or regional body for hands-on experience.
What degree do fellows earn?
Fellows earn a master’s degree in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding from King’s College London.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is May 24, 2026. Start your online application through the official portal and secure acceptance to the King’s College London program.