Africa Fellows in Education Program (AFEP) 2026/2027 – Two-Year Fully Supported Research Fellowship ($25,000 Research Grant) – Apply Now

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026 (23:59 GMT)

About the Program

The Africa Fellows in Education Program (AFEP) is a prestigious, two-year research fellowship designed to nurture the next generation of African education policymakers and researchers. The program offers fully supported research fellowships specifically tailored for young African scholars who demonstrate a strong commitment to improving education systems across the continent. Through rigorous training, mentorship, and practical experience, AFEP aims to equip emerging leaders with the skills necessary to develop and implement evidence-based education policies that can lead to meaningful and sustainable improvements. AFEP specifically targets talented researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa who are passionate about transforming education landscapes in their countries. Participants are selected based on their dedication to addressing educational challenges, their potential to contribute to policy development, and their interest in leveraging data and research to inform decision-making processes. The program is a collaborative effort led by the Global Education Analytics Institute (GEAI), in partnership with the Partnership for Education Progress (PEP). It invites motivated young researchers who seek to expand their expertise in education policy analysis, research methodologies, and data-driven decision-making. Applicants are encouraged to submit an expression of interest to become part of this dynamic fellowship, which provides an invaluable platform for professional growth and regional impact. AFEP’s core objective is to foster a network of skilled local policy Fellows who possess advanced competencies in analyzing educational research, utilizing performance data, and applying rigorous evidence to inform policy decisions. Throughout the fellowship, participants engage with cutting-edge research and analytical tools, gaining practical experience in evaluating education policies, designing interventions, and measuring their effectiveness. In addition to technical skills, Fellows benefit from being integrated into an international community of researchers, policymakers, and development experts. This exposure enables them to build vital networks, share best practices, and collaborate on innovative solutions tailored to the unique educational contexts of African countries. AFEP aims to empower a new generation of education leaders who can champion evidence-based reforms, enhance accountability, and contribute to the sustainable development of education systems across Africa. This fellowship represents a unique opportunity for young African researchers to accelerate their careers, influence policy, and make a lasting impact on education outcomes in their communities.

Program Structure

The proposed program is organised around a combination of in-country activities and network/training opportunities regionally and abroad.

Fellows will have the opportunity to:

• Attend two of the most prominent international conferences on the economics of education
• Participate in a series of short courses designed to be most suitable to their needs – covering topics such as evaluation methods, communications, incentive structures
• Participate in a series of lectures on testing and performance measurement

While in their home countries, the Fellows will:

• Develop a research/evaluation project to be carried out under program supervision and with local scientific mentors
• Receive direct support and supervision from a team of advisors from Stanford University and other African and international organizations’

Funding Details

Each fellow receives:

• $25,000 research grant
• Up to $25,000 in covered expenses for mentorship, conference travel, and in-country workshops

Why This Fellowship Matters

Sub-Saharan Africa faces significant challenges in education from low learning outcomes to inequitable access to quality education. Evidence-based decision-making is essential to improving education systems, yet many African countries lack researchers with the skills to evaluate educational programs, analyze performance data, and translate research into policy.

The Africa Fellows in Education Program addresses this gap by:

• Providing two-year, fully supported research fellowships for young African researchers
• Offering a $25,000 research grant plus up to $25,000 in covered expenses
• Building skills in evaluating educational research, using performance data, and introducing rigorous evidence into decision-making
• Providing access to international networks of researchers and policy advisers
• Offering mentorship from advisors at Stanford University and other organisations
• Supporting in-country research projects under program supervision
• Prioritizing Sub-Saharan African nationals aged 35 and under who hold a Master’s or PhD with strong quantitative focus

For young researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa with a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field, experience in quantitative data analysis, and a commitment to improving education, AFEP offers a unique opportunity to build expertise in education policy and evidence-based decision-making.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be nationals of a Sub-Saharan African country
• Be 35 or younger
• Hold a Master’s or PhD in a relevant field with strong quantitative focus
• Demonstrate experience with quantitative data analysis
• Demonstrate interest in education policy research and analysis
• Be affiliated with a government, research, or higher education institution
• Be proficient in English

Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Submit the following documents via the PEP intranet system:

• A two-page statement of interest
• A two-page essay on an educational problem in your country
• A detailed and up-to-date CV

Application Link: Click here to apply

Download the Call for Applications document for a full description of AFEP, the Terms of Reference, and instructions for application submission through the PEP intranet system.

For More Information: Visit the Official PEP AFEP Page