Call for Applications: LUNE 3 – Shaping AI from African Contexts Fellowship 2026

Are you a Nigerian graduate or doctoral researcher in the humanities or social sciences with a growing interest in Artificial Intelligence? Or are you a technical expert in AI/computer science looking to engage deeply with African perspectives?

The LUNE 3: Shaping AI from African Contexts Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications!

This intensive 10-week remote research fellowship brings together Nigerian scholars to interrogate and reshape AI technologies through African histories, epistemologies, and lived realities. The program aims to develop scholar-practitioners who can critically research, critique, and collaboratively shape AI in African institutions and communities — contributing grounded African voices to global AI futures.

What the Fellowship Offers

• Weekly 90-minute interactive classes on cutting-edge topics, including:
  • Data Governance, Digital Sovereignty & AI Ethics in African contexts
  • Machine Learning and Generative AI Fundamentals
  • NLP and African Languages
  • AI + Literary/Creative/Digital Humanities
  • AI in Education, Health, Cultural Heritage, Climate Sustainability, and more
• Hands-on workshops on practical AI tools and science communication/policy engagement
• Collaborative assignments and exploratory research projects
• Targeted mentoring from experienced researchers (2–4 hours per month)
• Collaboration between humanities/social science Fellows and technical Navigators
• Data stipends to support participation
• Opportunity to join a growing network of Nigerian researchers working at the AI–humanities intersection

The fellowship runs remotely and culminates in final presentations.

Who Should Apply?

Fellows
Nigerian graduate and doctoral researchers with a background in humanities or social sciences who are exploring intersections with AI.

Navigators
Researchers and professionals with technical backgrounds in computer science, AI, or related fields who want to engage with humanities and social science perspectives.

Facilitators (limited roles)
Experts able to lead at least one 90-minute session on topics in digital humanities, AI, or related fields.

Mentors (limited roles)
Experienced researchers with a track record of completing high-quality, global-standard research projects. Mentors commit 2–4 hours per month to guide 1–2 participants.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: April 20, 2026
• Finalists announced: Mid to late May 2026
• Fellowship starts: Late May – Early June 2026
• Final presentations and closing: Late July – Early August 2026

How to Apply

• For Fellows and Navigators: Apply through the official call page → Call for Applications – LUNE Three
• For Facilitators: Apply here
• For Mentors: Apply here

For any questions, reach out to the organizers at help@researchround.com.

This is a unique opportunity for Nigerian researchers to build critical AI literacy, contribute African-centered perspectives, and develop interdisciplinary skills in a supportive, collaborative environment.

If you’re passionate about ensuring AI development reflects African realities, don’t miss this fellowship.