Call for Applications: 2026 AWARD Leadership Program for Emerging African Women in Agricultural Sciences

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Application Deadline: October 15, 2025

African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) has officially opened the call for applications to its 2026 Leadership Program for Emerging African Women in Agricultural Sciences. This prestigious initiative, funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY), is designed to cultivate a new generation of capable, confident, and influential women leaders in agricultural science across Africa.

The program aims to invest in young African women scientists under the age of 35 who are passionate about advancing agricultural sciences, breaking institutional barriers, and championing gender equality in the sector. By equipping participants with essential leadership, communication, and networking skills, AWARD seeks to accelerate women’s representation in leadership positions and strengthen the integration of gender in agricultural research and development.

Investing in the Next Generation of African Women Leaders

For too long, systemic barriers have slowed women’s career progression in agricultural sciences. AWARD’s Leadership Program directly addresses these challenges by providing transformative opportunities that empower young women to thrive and lead. The program builds a pool of emerging leaders who can drive inclusive agricultural innovation, ensuring that African agriculture reflects the voices and expertise of women.

Through intensive training, mentorship, and exposure to global networks, participants will gain the tools to overcome gender-based obstacles, stay motivated in their careers, and influence agricultural research and policy at all levels.

Who Can Apply?

The 2026 edition of the program targets young women scientists working across a range of biophysical and social science disciplines. Applicants are welcome from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, universities, research institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

For this call, applications are open to women from the following sub-Saharan African countries:

  • Benin
  • Burkina Faso
  • Côte d’Ivoire
  • Ethiopia
  • Ghana
  • Kenya
  • Malawi
  • Nigeria
  • Senegal
  • Tanzania
  • Zambia

Program Highlights

The nine-month non-residential program is designed to transform careers and enhance leadership capacity for up to 40 competitively selected African women scientists and their mentors. Participants will gain exposure to a wide range of leadership and career advancement skills, including:

  • Developing effective leadership styles and strategies.
  • Defining clear career paths and leveraging networks for growth.
  • Building strong personal brands to confidently pitch research ideas to funding agencies and collaborators.
  • Managing teams, navigating organizational dynamics, and fostering alliances.
  • Understanding gender dynamics and applying proven negotiation and problem-solving strategies.

At the end of the program, participants will receive a certificate of completion, recognizing their successful participation in this transformative leadership journey.

Why This Program Matters

Agriculture is at the heart of Africa’s economy, yet women remain underrepresented in agricultural research and leadership. By strengthening the pipeline of young women scientists, AWARD is contributing to a more inclusive, resilient, and innovative agricultural sector. The program does more than enhance professional growth—it inspires participants to champion gender integration, influence policy, and create solutions that address Africa’s agricultural challenges.

This initiative is not just about empowering individual women; it is about shaping a more equitable future for agricultural science across the continent.

Application Details

  • Deadline: October 15, 2025 (midnight, East Africa Time – GMT+3).
  • Application process: Applications are only accepted through the online registration form. Late submissions will not be considered.
  • Resources available: Interested applicants are encouraged to carefully review the official application guidelines and FAQs before applying.

About AWARD

African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) is a career-development program that works to strengthen the capacity of African women agricultural scientists, fostering their leadership and influence in the sector. Through fellowships, mentorship, and training programs, AWARD empowers women to lead innovative, gender-responsive solutions that contribute to Africa’s food security and climate resilience.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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