Applications are Now Open for the 2026 AFRIAK Fellowships for Research in Indigenous and Alternative Knowledges by CODESRIA

Application Deadline: February 15, 2026

The Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) has launched the 2026 AFRIAK Fellowships for Research in Indigenous and Alternative Knowledges (AFRIAK). Supported by the Mastercard Foundation, this initiative continues CODESRIA’s mission to empower young African researchers, particularly women, to explore and apply Indigenous knowledge for sustainable development and inclusive growth across the continent.

Empowering a New Generation of African Researchers

AFRIAK is an innovative program designed to nurture a new generation of young scholars who can integrate Indigenous and alternative knowledge systems into contemporary research and practice. It seeks to reconnect young Africans with local and community-based wisdom that has been overshadowed by Western learning models. The program bridges generational and cultural divides by fostering collaboration between academic mentors and community knowledge bearers, including traditional experts, local artisans, and cultural custodians.

At the heart of the AFRIAK Fellowship lies the belief that empowering youth to produce knowledge grounded in their lived realities will create contextually rich data capable of driving effective policy interventions. Such knowledge can shape inclusive and sustainable solutions across sectors—education, environment, agriculture, health, and technology—while helping communities build dignified livelihoods.

Reclaiming and Reframing Indigenous Knowledge

CODESRIA’s approach to Indigenous knowledge challenges colonial-era notions that often portrayed local knowledge systems as primitive or outdated. Building on the groundbreaking research of Beninois philosopher Paulin Hountondji, AFRIAK reframes Indigenous knowledge as endogenous knowledge—knowledge that originates from within African societies and evolves dynamically through interaction with other systems. This perspective encourages African scholars to reclaim and validate community-based wisdom as a legitimate foundation for innovation, problem-solving, and sustainable development.

AFRIAK emphasizes the importance of “using what we have.” It promotes an appreciation of Africa’s rich intellectual heritage, recognizing Indigenous knowledge as an evolving, living system capable of addressing today’s challenges through its practical and philosophical insights.

Programme Components

The 2026 AFRIAK Fellowship includes three main components designed to support capacity building, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination:

1. Research, Training, and Mentorship Fellowship:
   Selected fellows will participate in an intensive research and training program guided by experienced mentors and Indigenous knowledge holders. This hands-on fellowship fosters both academic rigor and community engagement.
2. Policy Convenings:
   Fellows will engage with policymakers, academics, and practitioners to translate their research into actionable insights that inform public policy and community initiatives.
3. Alumni and Community of Practice Network:
   Graduates of the program will join a growing network of scholars and practitioners dedicated to Indigenous and alternative knowledge systems, ensuring continuous learning and collaboration beyond the fellowship.

Expected Outcomes

The fellowship aims to:

• Create spaces for young African researchers—especially women—to co-produce and apply knowledge with community experts.
• Break the isolation between Indigenous and academic knowledge systems.
• Enhance the capacity of marginalized groups, including refugees, persons with disabilities, and rural youth, to access and apply local knowledge.
• Transform knowledge into action to generate sustainable livelihoods in sectors like agriculture, digital innovation, education, climate adaptation, and creative industries.
• Foster a critical mass of women researchers who will mentor future generations and integrate emerging technologies such as AI to preserve and expand Indigenous knowledge.

Ultimately, AFRIAK seeks to elevate Indigenous and alternative knowledge as vital tools for community development and sustainable livelihoods.

Research Themes

Applicants are invited to submit proposals within thematic areas such as:

• Indigenous medical sciences and healing practices
• Creative industries and Indigenous entrepreneurship
• Agriculture and agri-food systems
• Indigenous technologies and sustainability
• Climate change and ecological resilience
• Indigenous languages and education
• Governance, spirituality, and state-building

Eligibility and Application Details

The fellowship targets African nationals aged 35 and below, residing on the continent, who are actively engaged in research or practice related to Indigenous knowledge. Both individual and group applications are welcome, with at least 70% of selected fellows being women. Applications from persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged, reflecting CODESRIA’s commitment to inclusive participation.

Each fellowship cohort will engage in a seven-month program, including an induction workshop, field research, and a one-month residency at an intellectual hub in another African country. Successful applicants will benefit from mentorship, peer collaboration, and access to a continental network of scholars.

Applications must be submitted exclusively through the CODESRIA Fellowship Portal

The application deadline is February 15, 2026 (23:59 GMT). Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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