Overview The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is inviting applications for the Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at cultivating the next generation of African policy researchers. This opportunity forms part of the organisation’s commitment to strengthening youth engagement within policy spaces across the continent. The programme also marks the soft launch of the Africa Youth Portal, an enhanced and youth-focused evolution of the original Africa Portal, designed as a platform for emerging scholars to contribute meaningful, policy-driven research. The initiative is tailored for postgraduate students who possess a strong interest in African development, governance, international affairs, and evidence-based policy research. Through structured training, mentorship and publication opportunities, the programme seeks to empower young researchers with the competencies necessary to transition from academic environments into professional policy and think-tank spaces. About the Programme The Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme combines intensive in-person training with sustained mentorship to support participants’ research, writing and professional growth. The cornerstone of the programme is a week-long workshop titled From Academia to the Think Tank: A Young Researcher’s Journey, scheduled to take place from 20–25 April 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa (dates to be confirmed). SAIIA will cover travel and accommodation expenses for selected participants. A total of 20 postgraduate youth researchers will be selected. Each participant will engage in structured sessions focusing on applied research, policy communication and the broader ecosystem of think tanks. The programme is designed to serve as a bridge between academic work and policy analysis by providing real-world insights, expert feedback, and opportunities to publish policy pieces on the new Africa Youth Portal. Training Focus Areas Participants will be trained in a range of thematic and skills-based areas, including: Understanding the distinctions and complementarities between academic research and policy research within think tanks. Writing concise, impactful policy briefs and commentary pieces intended for public consumption. Strategies for research dissemination including media engagement and public communication. The application of artificial intelligence and digital tools in research, writing and policy analysis. Personal branding, professional development, and the navigation of careers within policy, governance and research environments. Thematic research topics such as education, climate change, gender, youth inclusion and agency, and armed conflict. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements: Be between 18 and 35 years of age. Be currently enrolled in, or have recently completed, a postgraduate qualification such as an Honours, Master’s or PhD degree. Have a background in one of the following fields: political science, international relations, journalism, development studies, sociology, law, economics, science, or foresight studies. Demonstrate clear interest in policy research, African development, and youth empowerment. Be available from 20–25 April 2026 for the full duration of the training workshop. Commit to participating in post-workshop engagements including mentorship and collaborative activities. Be willing to produce a publishable research article (800–1000 words) aligned with programme themes. Programme Benefits The Africa Youth Portal and Research Programme offers participants a wide range of professional and academic benefits, including: Mentorship from senior researchers with extensive policy and international affairs experience. Training in core areas of applied research, policy writing, communication and digital research tools. Opportunities to publish written work on the Africa Youth Portal and gain exposure to regional and international audiences. Access to professional networks including researchers, policy practitioners, media partners and prospective employers. Eligibility to join the SAIIA Youth Advisory Committee, enabling deeper involvement in SAIIA’s broader youth-focused initiatives. Application Requirements Applicants must submit the following documents: A completed application form. A motivation letter (maximum 500 words). A curriculum vitae (maximum 2 pages). An academic transcript or proof of current enrolment. A one-page research proposal aligned with at least one thematic focus area of the programme. Applications close on Friday, 12 December 2025. Submission Details Applications should be submitted through the designated online portal.For enquiries, contact: Donavan FullardSAIIA Programme: Youth VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.