WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme 2026

Applications are now open for the WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) 2026 for young graduates and early-career professionals in West Africa. The programme is a fully funded six-month internship designed to equip young African leaders with practical experience in civil society, policy advocacy, capacity development, and knowledge management.

Hosted by the West Africa Civil Society Institute, the internship provides selected participants with hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to real-world development work in West Africa.

The WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) is a flagship leadership and capacity-building initiative launched by the West Africa Civil Society Institute to nurture the next generation of African civic leaders and development professionals. 

The programme gives interns the opportunity to work directly within WACSI’s core units, including:

• Capacity Development
• Policy Influencing and Advocacy
• Knowledge Management
• Organisational Learning.

Interns gain practical experience through active participation in WACSI projects, mentorship sessions, workshops, research activities, and professional development engagements. Since its launch in 2008, the programme has trained more than 80 young professionals from across Africa.

Benefits

Selected participants will receive:

• Fully funded six-month internship in Ghana
• Practical experience in civil society and development work
• Professional mentorship and leadership training
• Hands-on experience in advocacy, research, and programme management
• Networking opportunities with development professionals and organizations
• Exposure to regional and international civil society initiatives
• Capacity-building and career development opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme, applicants must:

• Be young graduates or early-career professionals
• Have between 0–3 years of professional experience
• Be citizens of eligible West African countries
• Have strong communication and research skills
• Demonstrate interest in civil society, governance, policy, advocacy, or development work
• Be willing to participate fully in the six-month programme in Accra, Ghana.

Applicants with backgrounds in:

• International Relations
• Development Studies
• Political Science
• Communication
• Public Policy
• Social Sciences
• Related fields

are strongly encouraged to apply.

Why You Should Apply

The WACSI Internship Programme is one of the leading civil society internship opportunities in West Africa for young professionals interested in governance, advocacy, and sustainable development.

Participants gain real-world experience, develop leadership and communication skills, build regional networks, and work alongside experienced professionals tackling critical development challenges across Africa. The programme also serves as a strong foundation for careers in NGOs, international development, public policy, advocacy, and research.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should complete the online application form through the official WACSI website. Applicants are advised to carefully review the requirements and provide accurate information during the application process.

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