Apply Now for the NIERA Policy Fellowship Program 2025 Admin, April 6, 2025April 6, 2025 Application Deadline: May 7, 2025 The Network of Impact Evaluation Researchers in Africa (NIERA) is excited to announce the launch of its inaugural 2025 Policy Fellowship Program, inviting applications from mid-level policymakers across West and East Africa. This six-week virtual fellowship is designed to enhance participants’ competencies in evidence-informed policymaking (EIPM), fostering the integration of robust research evidence into policy development processes. Program Overview The fellowship commences with a comprehensive one-week online course, encompassing five critical modules: Revisiting the Policymaking Process: An in-depth analysis of the stages and dynamics involved in crafting effective policies. Accessing Evidence: Techniques and tools for identifying and obtaining relevant research data and findings. Appraising Evidence: Methods for critically evaluating the quality and applicability of research evidence. Synthesizing Evidence: Strategies for integrating diverse research insights to inform policy decisions. Applying Evidence: Practical approaches to implementing research findings within the policymaking framework. Upon successful completion of this course, fellows will collaborate virtually over the subsequent five weeks with an experienced NIERA researcher. This partnership aims to develop a concise research proposal (concept note) that addresses a specific evidence need identified within the fellow’s institution. Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet the following requirements: Professional Role: Mid-level technical staff within government ministries, agencies, departments, or sub-national government structures. Lawmakers, including members of parliament and their research staff, are also eligible. Educational Background: A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree. Experience: Demonstrable experience in policy development or program management. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Access) and familiarity with internet search engines. Equipment and Connectivity: Access to a personal laptop and a reliable internet connection for active participation in the online components of the fellowship. Language Proficiency: Fluency in English, both written and spoken. Employer Support: A written endorsement from the applicant’s employer, confirming support and time commitment for the fellowship. Thematic Areas For this cohort, applicants are invited to apply under one of the following thematic areas: Health Education Agriculture Eligible Countries Applicants must be nationals of the following countries: Burundi Côte d’Ivoire Ethiopia Ghana Kenya Mali Nigeria Rwanda Senegal Tanzania The Gambia Uganda Cameroon Application Process Interested candidates must submit the following documents: Personal Statement (maximum 1 page): A narrative detailing the applicant’s motivation for applying, expected outcomes, previous experience with evidence in policymaking, and commitment to the fellowship’s duration. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages): An updated CV highlighting relevant professional and educational experiences. Evidence Needs Statement (maximum 1 page): A description of specific evidence requirements within the applicant’s institution and how the fellowship will assist in addressing these needs. Letter of Support: A formal letter from a supervisor or relevant authority, affirming the institution’s support and the applicant’s availability to fully participate in the fellowship. References: Contact information (name, email, phone number, and affiliation) for two individuals capable of attesting to the applicant’s suitability for the fellowship. All documents should adhere to the following formatting guidelines: Font: Arial Font Size: 11 Line Spacing: Single Margins: Normal File Formats: DOCX or PDF Selection Timeline March 24, 2025: Release of Request for Applications April 3, 2025: Virtual Information Session for potential applicants at 2:00 PM EAT. May 7, 2025: Application Deadline May 8–23, 2025: Application Review Period May 26–June 6, 2025: Interviews with Shortlisted Applicants June 13, 2025: Notification of Final Selection Fellowship Benefits Daily Stipend: A per diem of $50 for participation in the online workshop. Honorarium: Submissions must be sent to proposals@nieraglobal.org by 5:00 PM East African Time (EAT) on May 7, 2025. Late applications will not be considered. Applicants will receive an acknowledgment upon receipt of their submission. For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE Fellowships & Scholarship opportunities Opportunities for Africans