Fellowship programmes provide students, graduates, researchers and young professionals with opportunities to develop specialised knowledge, strengthen leadership skills, conduct research and contribute to meaningful projects in their chosen fields. Unlike conventional scholarships, which primarily provide financial support for education, fellowships may combine funding with professional training, mentorship, research activities, networking opportunities and practical experience.

Fellowship opportunities are available across several fields, including public health, medicine, education, journalism, technology, agriculture, climate change, governance, human rights, entrepreneurship, international development and scientific research. Some programmes focus on academic research and postgraduate study, while others support emerging leaders, community advocates, journalists, innovators and professionals seeking to expand their impact.

Nigerians and other Africans can explore fellowship opportunities offered by universities, research institutions, government agencies, international organisations, charitable foundations and non-governmental organisations. Some fellowships are open to applicants from across Africa, while others target specific countries, professional groups, academic disciplines or career stages. Examples of organisations and initiatives associated with fellowship opportunities include the African Union, the United Nations, the World Bank, the Mandela Washington Fellowship and selected programmes supported by the Mastercard Foundation. Availability and eligibility depend on each individual programme and application cycle.

The benefits of a fellowship vary according to its objectives and funding arrangements. Fully funded programmes may cover travel, accommodation, living expenses, training costs and research activities. Other fellowships provide stipends, grants or partial financial assistance, while some offer professional development and mentorship without comprehensive funding. Applicants should review the benefits carefully to determine whether the opportunity meets their academic, professional and financial needs.

Eligibility requirements also differ between programmes. Some fellowships accept final-year university students and recent graduates, while others require several years of professional experience, a postgraduate qualification or demonstrated expertise in a particular field. Applicants may need to provide a curriculum vitae (CV), academic transcripts, a personal statement, recommendation letters, a research proposal or evidence of previous work. Leadership experience, community involvement and a clear explanation of how the fellowship aligns with the applicant’s goals may also be important selection criteria.

Fellowship application deadlines are determined by individual organisers. Some programmes open applications annually, while others announce opportunities according to funding availability and project schedules. Prospective applicants should begin preparing their documents early, monitor official announcements and ensure that all application requirements are met before the closing date.

Applicants should verify fellowship announcements through official programme websites and recognised institutional channels. Be cautious of individuals or websites promising guaranteed selection in exchange for payment, and confirm any legitimate application fees directly with the programme organiser.

EducationNGR shares information about fellowship programmes that may benefit Nigerian students, graduates, researchers and other African professionals. Applicants should always consult the official programme website for the latest eligibility criteria, funding details, application instructions and deadlines before applying.

List of Ongoing Fellowship Programmes and Opportunities: Eligibility, Deadline and How to Apply

Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship 2027

Applications are open for the 2027 Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship, a programme for young African entrepreneurs who are already leading a business or project. The application window runs from 29 September to 10 November 2026.

Applicants must be 15 to 22 years old, be citizens of an African country and have a valid National ID or passport. They must also be founders actively leading an existing venture, with a commitment of at least 20 hours per week to the business or project.

The fellowship provides cash stipends linked to business milestones, with financial support tied to progress. Fellows also receive support to strengthen their business systems and prepare materials that can be used when engaging potential investors or partners. At the end of the second year, fellows pitch their ventures for a share of a US$40,000 prize pool across four categories: Job Creation, Revenue Growth, Storytelling and Systems of Delivery.

Participants can shadow experienced entrepreneurs and learn from their approach to business decisions and daily operations. The programme also combines self-paced digital courses, live learning sessions and coaching, allowing fellows to apply the lessons directly to their ventures.

Interested founders can visit the Anzisha Venture Building Fellowship page for more information about the programme, eligibility requirements and application process.

EducationNGR Editorial Team

The official account of EducatioNGR editorial team, used for publication of various educational resources and information. A Team with a combined experience of 15 years and headed by the Lead Publisher; Amakor Vitalis.