The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program at ACEP opens doors for ambitious young Africans.
This fully funded internship focuses on energy and extractive sector governance.
Moreover, it prepares future leaders to influence sustainable development across Africa.
As a result, participants gain real policy exposure and professional confidence.
The African Centre for Energy Policy now invites applications for its 10th cohort.
Therefore, young professionals can join a respected pan-African leadership platform.
This program combines purpose, learning, and long-term career growth.
Overview of the NextGen Leaders Program
The NextGen Leaders Program develops Africa’s next generation of governance experts.
It emphasizes accountability, innovation, and ethical decision-making.
At the same time, interns operate within a dynamic research-driven institution.
Participants benefit from structured training and continuous mentorship.
Additionally, ACEP promotes critical thinking and leadership discipline.
Consequently, interns emerge ready for complex governance environments.
Core learning areas include natural resource governance and energy policy.
Furthermore, participants build skills in leadership, communication, and digital tools.
Professional growth remains central throughout the internship period.
Why the ACEP NextGen Program Stands Out
Africa’s resource sectors demand informed and principled leadership.
However, governance gaps continue to challenge inclusive growth.
Therefore, programs like NextGen remain highly relevant.
This internship strengthens policy capacity through hands-on engagement.
Moreover, participants contribute to research that shapes public debate.
As a result, interns influence policy outcomes beyond the classroom.
The program also encourages cross-border collaboration among young Africans.
Consequently, participants gain broader continental perspectives and networks.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be African citizens currently living in Africa.
Additionally, candidates should be 32 years old or younger.
A relevant academic qualification is required for eligibility.
Preferred fields include economics, energy studies, and engineering.
Public policy, law, development studies, and communications also qualify.
Moreover, backgrounds in statistics, finance, or project management are acceptable.
Applicants should demonstrate strong analytical and writing abilities.
Knowledge of qualitative or quantitative tools is highly advantageous.
Familiarity with R, Stata, NVivo, or Eviews strengthens applications.
Successful candidates show teamwork, adaptability, and initiative.
Equally important, they demonstrate responsibility and leadership potential.
Roles and Responsibilities of NextGen Leaders
NextGen Leaders actively support research and policy development.
They contribute to reports and policy briefs on energy and extractives.
Additionally, interns assist with stakeholder engagement initiatives.
Participants help plan and review ACEP’s annual programs.
They also support organizational development activities.
Resource mobilization and proposal writing form part of assigned duties.
Monitoring and evaluation tasks further enhance practical learning.
Through these roles, interns gain valuable governance experience.
Consequently, they build strong professional credibility.
Program Benefits and Financial Support
The NextGen Leaders Program offers extensive professional benefits.
Participants receive mentorship, coaching, and continuous skills development.
Peer learning further strengthens collaboration and innovation.
Interns receive a generous stipend during the program.
Lunch support is provided consistently.
International participants receive decent accommodation in Ghana.
The program also covers an approved return flight.
Therefore, financial limitations do not restrict participation.
This structure ensures equal access for talented Africans.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit all documents as one PDF file.
A detailed chronological CV is required.
It should highlight recent academic and professional achievements.
Candidates must include certified higher education certificates.
English translations are required where necessary.
A 500-word motivational statement must explain goals and alignment.
One professional reference letter is mandatory.
Acceptable referees include lecturers or previous employers.
Family references are not permitted.
Applicants must submit one essay response.
The essay should not exceed 500 words, excluding references.
A valid national identification document is also required.
Essay Topics for Consideration
Applicants must answer one essay question only.
The first topic examines Africa’s industrial minerals sector.
Candidates should discuss challenges and opportunities using examples.
The second topic focuses on greenhouse gas emissions in energy systems.
Applicants should propose management strategies with real-world cases.
Full names and selected question numbers must appear on the essay.
Language and Selection Process
The program operates entirely in English.
Therefore, applicants must demonstrate functional language proficiency.
All applications undergo a competitive review process.
Shortlisted candidates will attend interviews by late July 2025.
Final selections follow shortly thereafter.
Only successful applicants receive formal offers.
How to Apply for the ACEP NextGen Leaders Program
Interested candidates must apply through the official application portal.
All required documents must upload as one combined PDF.
Incomplete submissions will not receive consideration.
Application Deadline: Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM GMT.
Apply Today for the Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program
The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program at ACEP creates lasting impact.
It equips young Africans with skills for governance and policy leadership.
Through funding, mentorship, and research exposure, careers accelerate.
Young Africans committed to ethical leadership should apply now.
This program shapes leaders while advancing Africa’s sustainable future.