The African Union International Centre for Girls’ and Women’s Education in Africa (AU CIEFFA), in partnership with ImpactHER, has opened applications for the 2026 Online Capacity Building Training, a fully funded virtual programme aimed at equipping young Africans with practical digital and entrepreneurial skills.
The initiative supports the African Union’s agenda to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and inclusive economic development while addressing the gender gap in information and communication technology (ICT) across the continent.
The online training is open to participants from all African countries, enabling young people to learn remotely while interacting with experts and peers from across the continent.
Participants will receive training in Gender Equality in Education, Digital Skills, Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy.
To be eligible, applicants must be African men or women aged 18 to 35 years. They should demonstrate leadership or active involvement in democratic governance, youth participation, peace and security, elections or related fields. Applicants are also expected to be affiliated with youth-led organisations, civil society organisations, government institutions or initiatives focused on governance, human rights, leadership or youth development.
In addition, candidates must be willing to participate throughout the programme and commit to sharing the knowledge acquired within their communities or organisations after the training. Female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Successful applicants will benefit from fully funded online training and mentorship, practical digital and entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy training, and industry-relevant knowledge to enhance employability and business growth.
Participants who attend at least 80 per cent of the sessions in each programme will receive certificates in Digital Skills, Entrepreneurship and Financial Literacy. They will also gain access to the professional networks of AU CIEFFA and ImpactHER, opportunities to participate in future African Union programmes, and networking opportunities with experts and participants across Africa.
Applications close on 31 July 2026, while the training is scheduled to commence on 31 August 2026. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the official AU CIEFFA application portal before the deadline.
Apply: https://cieffa.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2026-07-09/african-union-cieffa-impacther-launch-4th-edition-fully-funded-ocbt
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