AWARD Leadership Program 2026/2027 | Have you ever looked around your workplace and wondered why there aren’t more women leading research projects, managing scientific institutions, or shaping agricultural policies?
Across Africa, many talented women are making remarkable contributions to science and agriculture. Yet, despite their expertise and dedication, many still face barriers that limit their opportunities to move into leadership positions. That’s exactly why the AWARD Leadership Program 2026/2027 for Emerging African Women in Agricultural Sciences was created.
Apply Scholarship below:
Application Deadline: September 20, 2026 (East Africa Time, GMT+3)
Applications are now open for this unique leadership program designed specifically for young African women scientists who want to grow professionally, build their leadership skills, and create meaningful change within the agricultural sector.
If you’re passionate about agriculture, research, innovation, and leadership, this opportunity could be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
What Is the AWARD Leadership Program?
The AWARD Leadership Program for Emerging African Women in Science is a customized nine-month leadership development program created to support women under the age of 35 who are working in agricultural sciences.
The program is funded by the Andrew Carnegie Foundation and implemented by African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD). But this isn’t just another online training course.
Think of it as a leadership journey designed to help participants discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop the skills needed to become influential leaders in science and agriculture.
The goal is simple: to create a new generation of capable, confident, and inspiring African women who can lead scientific innovation while promoting gender equality in agriculture.
Why Does This Program Matter?
Agriculture remains one of Africa’s most important sectors. It feeds communities, creates jobs, drives economic growth, and supports millions of families.
Yet, women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership positions within agricultural science. Imagine trying to solve a puzzle while leaving half the pieces in the box. That’s what happens when talented women don’t have equal opportunities to participate in decision-making and leadership.
When more women are empowered to lead, everyone benefits. Research becomes more inclusive, communities become stronger, and agricultural solutions become more effective. The AWARD Leadership Program was developed to help close this gap.
What Will Participants Learn?
Throughout the nine-month program, participants will take part in highly interactive virtual training sessions covering several important areas.
Topics include:
- Leadership development and identifying effective leadership styles
- Career planning and professional growth
- Building and expanding professional networks
- Personal branding and self-confidence
- Proposal writing and research communication
- Team management skills
- Understanding workplace dynamics
- Developing the confidence to present research ideas to funding agencies and collaborators
Participants will also receive one-on-one coaching and mentoring from experienced professionals who understand the challenges women often face in scientific careers.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be female and under 35 years old
- Have at least five years of full-time professional experience in agriculture or science
- Hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in an agricultural science discipline from a recognized university
- Be currently living in Africa
- Be actively involved in agriculture-related professional work
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to professional growth
- Clearly explain their career goals and their interest in leadership
- Not be an AWARD Fellow or Laureate from any previous AWARD fellowship program
Applicants must also be from one of the following countries:
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- Tanzania
- Zambia
Program Structure
Each selected participant will complete a nine-month immersive leadership experience that includes:
- Virtual leadership training sessions
- Expert-led webinars
- Group mentoring
- Peer mentoring
- One-on-one coaching sessions
The good news is that every aspect of the training will be delivered online, making it easier for participants to learn from any location.
Even better, all training materials and mentorship opportunities will be provided completely free of charge.
What Will Be Expected of Participants?
Being selected for the program comes with certain responsibilities.
Participants will be expected to:
- Attend all virtual training sessions
- Participate in webinars
- Engage actively with mentors and fellow participants
- Complete assignments on time
- Contribute to discussions and group activities
- Share knowledge and provide constructive feedback
- Carry out at least one role-modeling activity to inspire future generations of women in science
Final Thoughts
Leadership doesn’t happen overnight.
It’s built through learning, experience, mentorship, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone. If you’re a young African woman working in agricultural science and you’ve been searching for an opportunity to strengthen your leadership skills, expand your network, and grow your career, this program is worth considering.
Remember, applications close on September 20, 2026.
Sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to change the direction of your career. Perhaps this is yours.
Visit the Official Webpage of the AWARD Leadership Program for Emerging African Women in Science