The Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 cohort of the Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program. This esteemed internship initiative seeks to cultivate a new cadre of pan-African leaders equipped to address complex governance challenges in the energy and extractive sectors.
Overview of the Program
The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program is an immersive internship designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. By participating, young professionals gain a multidisciplinary foundation, practical skills, and advanced research abilities that enable them to think innovatively and develop sustainable solutions to pressing governance issues.
This initiative also serves as a strategic platform to nurture and empower young leaders across Africa, creating a sustainable pipeline of talent dedicated to fostering good governance. At its core, the program emphasizes building capacity within a supportive environment, where participants can thrive and grow professionally.
Beyond technical training, the program focuses on personal development, helping participants set and achieve meaningful career and life goals. Through exposure to ethical leadership practices and targeted mentorship, the program aspires to shape well-rounded leaders who can make a significant impact on their communities and the continent at large.
Core Responsibilities
As part of their roles, Next Generation Leaders will contribute to ACEP’s mission of delivering evidence-based policy analysis, advocacy, and training. The program emphasizes collaboration to maintain ACEP’s position as a thought leader in Africa’s energy and extractive policy landscape. Key responsibilities include:
- Research and Analysis: Contributing to the development of research reports and policy briefs focused on Africa’s energy and extractive sectors.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Supporting ACEP’s efforts to engage with stakeholders and communicate its positions on critical issues in the sector.
- Program Development: Assisting in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of ACEP’s annual programs and initiatives.
- Organizational Support: Playing a role in organizational development activities to enhance ACEP’s impact.
- Resource Mobilization: Participating in grant writing and other efforts to secure funding for ACEP’s initiatives.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Supporting program management and M&E activities to ensure project success and accountability.
Program Benefits
The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program offers numerous benefits to its participants, ensuring both professional and personal growth. These include:
- Professional Development:
- Access to specialized training and development opportunities.
- Personalized coaching, mentorship, and peer support systems.
- A platform for creativity and innovation in addressing governance challenges.
- Financial Support:
- A generous monthly stipend.
- Lunch provided throughout the program.
- Accommodation and Travel:
- Comfortable accommodation for international participants.
- An approved return ticket from the participant’s home country to Ghana.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age and Residency: Be a young African residing on the continent, aged 32 years or younger.
- Passion for Governance: Demonstrate a genuine interest in ensuring Africa’s energy and extractive resources contribute to sustainable and inclusive development.
- Academic Qualifications: Hold relevant academic credentials in fields such as:
- Economics (including energy economics)
- Engineering (petroleum/electrical)
- Oil and gas management
- Public policy
- Law
- Political economy
- Development studies
- Development finance
- Project management
- Communications
- Statistics or mathematics
- Writing and Analytical Skills:
- Possess strong writing skills with clear, logical thought processes.
- Be proficient in using qualitative and quantitative analytical tools (e.g., R, Stata, EViews, NVivo, Atlas.ti).
- Professional Qualities:
- Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and creativity.
- A sense of ownership and accountability for decisions and actions.
- Demonstrated leadership potential and ethical conduct.
Application Process
Interested candidates must complete the application form, answering all questions thoroughly. Additionally, applicants are required to upload supporting documents as a single PDF file in the designated section of the form. Applications will remain open until 11:59 PM GMT on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
Final Thoughts
The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program is more than an internship; it is a transformative journey for young Africans passionate about driving sustainable governance in the energy and extractive sectors. By participating, you will join a network of forward-thinking leaders committed to making a difference. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to Africa’s future while advancing your career. Apply today!