Applications are now open for the 2026 edition of the WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme. This initiative was established in 2008 to provide young West Africans with hands-on professional training and exposure to key areas of civil society work. The programme was designed to respond to the need for structured, practical learning opportunities that prepare the next wave of African thinkers and development practitioners for leadership roles across the continent.

The internship targets recent graduates and early career professionals from West Africa who are eager to gain experience in WACSI’s main fields of focus. Selected interns will spend six months fully integrated into the organisation’s daily activities, working closely with teams to strengthen their understanding of leadership, programme implementation, policy engagement, and other development-related areas that impact West Africa’s growth and governance.

For the 2026 intake, WACSI is specifically inviting applicants from Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone who are committed to advancing civic participation and developing their professional abilities. During the internship, participants will work in one of WACSI’s key departments — Capacity Development, Policy Influencing and Advocacy, or Knowledge Management — contributing to ongoing projects and institutional initiatives.

Eligible candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as international relations, law, political science, public policy, development studies, or any related discipline. Applicants should demonstrate a clear interest in civil society work and the operations of non-profit organisations.

This opportunity is fully funded, with the institute covering all major costs. Selected interns will receive a round-trip flight from their home country to Accra, furnished accommodation, lunch on working days, and a monthly stipend throughout the six-month placement.

Interns will actively contribute to the institute’s work by assisting in the design and implementation of training and assessment tools, helping with programme planning and coordination, drafting reports, and supporting policy research and advocacy initiatives. They will also help prepare workshops, manage documentation, liaise with partners and stakeholders, and contribute to the creation of training materials, concept notes, and project proposals. Administrative and logistical support will also form part of their responsibilities as they work under the supervision of the unit heads.

Preference will be given to candidates who are fluent in English, French, or Portuguese, with at least a working knowledge of one additional language. The internship will take place primarily at WACSI’s headquarters in Accra, Ghana, running from January to June 2026. Applicants should note that those unable to complete the entire duration of the programme will be required to reimburse the full cost of the internship package.

The deadline for submission of applications is October 26, 2025.

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