The African Union Commission (AUC), through its Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), invites applications for the Continental Capacity Building Training Program for Youth. The deadline for applications is Saturday, 27 February 2026.
This program aims to strengthen youth participation in democratic governance, elections, and leadership across Africa. It aligns with Agenda 2063, Aspiration 6, focusing on youth-driven development. The training will take place at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, tentatively in April 2026.
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Selected participants will receive full coverage for travel, visa, accommodation, and participation costs. No application fee is required. The African Union will ensure gender balance, regional representation, and inclusivity in its selection process.
Key Details
Application Deadline: 27 February 2026 (11:55 PM Addis Ababa time, GMT+3)
Eligible Countries: African Union Member States
To be taken at (country): Ethiopia (Addis Ababa)
About this Scholarship
Level of Study: Not specified – please see official page
The program focuses on democratic governance, elections, and Pan-African leadership. It emphasizes the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG) as a core framework. Participants will gain advanced leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement skills. The training is designed to empower youth to replicate and cascade their learning within their communities or organizations.
Eligibility
- Youth aged 18–35 at the time of application.
- Citizens of AU Member States.
- Affiliated with youth-led or youth-focused organizations implementing initiatives in youth participation, governance, leadership, peace, security, or electoral processes.
- Representatives from national institutions, agencies, or civil society organizations working on democracy, governance, human rights, or related fields.
- Demonstrate leadership in democratic governance, elections, youth participation, peace, or security.
- Strong commitment to attend the full duration of the training.
- Willingness to replicate the training in their communities or organizations.
- Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Number of Awards: Not specified – please see official page
Value of Award: Full coverage of travel, visa, accommodation, and participation costs
Duration of Award: Duration of the training program (tentatively April 2026)
Benefits
- Fully funded participation (travel, visa, accommodation, and program costs).
- No application or participation fee.
- Advanced training in leadership, advocacy, and civic engagement.
- Networking with youth leaders from across Africa.
- Opportunity to contribute to democratic governance in Africa.
Required Documents
- Not specified – please see official page
Award Provider: African Union Commission (AUC), Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS)
How to Apply
- Complete the application form available on the official program page.
- Submit all required information before the deadline.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If you encounter issues, email AGA-APSA@africanunion.org for support.
👉 Visit the official scholarship page for details
