WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme for Young West Africans 2026

The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) invites young professionals from Nigeria, Guinea, Niger, and Togo to apply for its fully funded Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) running from July to December 2026.

WACSI introduced a Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) in January 2008 aimed at developing the next generation of African scholars and practitioners. The programme primarily targets young West Africans, either fresh graduates or early career professionals, seeking work experience in WACSI’s core areas of work. Interns are expected to commit to WACSI for six months during which time they will be fully involved in all WACSI activities and enhance their knowledge and capacities for leadership, knowledge and programme management, and critical development issues for West Africa, among other areas.

This six-month opportunity is open to fresh graduates and early-career professionals with a background in fields such as international affairs, political science, public policy, law, or development studies, and an interest in civil society and non-profit management.

About West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI)

The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) was established by the Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) in 2005 to reinforce the capacities of civil society in the sub-region. The Institute became operational in July 2007. Their vision: A peaceful and prosperous West Africa where development is driven by its people. Their mission: We strengthen civil society in West Africa to be responsive, collaborative, representative, resilient and influential through knowledge sharing, learning, connecting and influencing. WACSI’s core values are the driving force of its operational...... continue reading

WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme

Aim and Benefits of WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme

• Interns will gain hands-on experience in capacity development, policy influencing and advocacy, and knowledge management, while receiving full support, including accommodation (for Guinea, Niger, and Togo).
• Interns from Guinea, Niger, and Togo will be based in Accra, while the Nigerian intern will be based in Abuja (applicants must already reside in Abuja as no accommodation will be provided).
• This is a fully funded internship by WACSI. The institute will support interns fully with a flight to and from their home country, furnished accommodation, lunch during working days for the duration of the internship, and a monthly stipend.

Requirements for WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme Qualification

• Applicants must have a minimum of a first degree in international affairs, political science, public policy, law, development studies, or related fields.
• Applicants should also show an interest in civil society and non-profit organisation management.

Must have skillsG

• Interest in civil society and non-profit organization management
• Strong research, writing and communication (verbal and written) skills 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong internet research skills 
• Bilingual skills (French and English/ English and Portuguese)

Check also:Learn Africa Scholarship Program 2026African Development Bank Group (AFDB) Internship 2026 (Session 2)

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Interested applicants should send their motivation letter and CV/Resume to [email protected]

For more Information, visit West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) Career webpage