African Leadership Centre Fellowships 2026: Peace, Security & Development for African Scholars
Are you an African scholar interested in leadership, peace, security, and development? The African Leadership Centre Fellowships for African Scholars in Peace, Security and Development 2026 offer a unique chance to build skills and make an impact. This degree-awarding program runs for 18 months and helps young professionals shape Africa’s future in these key areas.
Program Overview
This fellowship blends academic study with hands-on training. Fellows join a master’s program in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding at King’s College London. They also take part in mentoring sessions, simulations, institutional visits, and a six-month placement at an African university, regional body, or center of excellence.
The goal is clear: equip participants with research skills, writing abilities, and policy knowledge. By the end, fellows gain connections to top African experts. They return ready to influence peace, security, and development agendas across the continent.
Applications close on May 24, 2026. Early preparation is key, as spots are competitive.
Who Can Apply?
The program targets junior faculty and early-career scholars from Africa. Here are the main requirements:
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Hold a master’s degree or a bachelor’s with matching professional experience.
- Work in fields like political science, international relations, history, law, development studies, peace and conflict studies, or similar areas at an African university.
- Show interest in peace, security, and development careers, even without prior deep experience.
- Prove ability to research African peace and security topics.
- Have a plan to apply the fellowship knowledge back home.
- Secure unconditional acceptance to the MSc in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding at King’s College London, including any needed English language tests.
Candidates must live by core values: African-led change, independent thought, integrity, excellence, youth agency, and diversity respect. Valid travel documents are required before starting.
What Makes This Fellowship Special?
Unlike standard degrees, this program mixes classroom learning with real-world practice. Group mentoring, one-on-one guidance, and peer sessions build leadership. Simulations prepare fellows for tough policy scenarios. The six-month attachment offers direct experience in Africa.
Graduates leave with a master’s degree, strong networks, and practical tools. They join a group of leaders driving Africa’s peace and security discussions.
How to Apply
Start by reviewing full details on the official site. Submit your application through the online form. Key steps include:
- Gather documents like degrees, CV, research plans, and references.
- Explain your interest and post-fellowship goals.
- Apply separately to King’s College London for the MSc and meet their deadlines.
Visit the application page to begin. For more, check the African Leadership Centre site.
This opportunity can transform your career. Act before the deadline to join Africa’s next generation of leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the African Leadership Centre Fellowships 2026?
Junior faculty and early-career scholars from African countries with a master’s degree or equivalent experience in fields like political science or peace studies can apply. You must gain acceptance to the MSc at King’s College London and commit to African-led values.
What does the fellowship program include?
The 18-month program offers a master’s in Global Leadership and Peacebuilding, mentoring, simulations, institutional visits, and a six-month placement at an African university or organization.
When is the application deadline for the 2026 fellowships?
Applications close on May 24, 2026, so start preparing early as spots are limited.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Review details on the official site, gather documents like your CV and research plan, apply separately to King’s College London, and submit via the online form at the application page.