The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program by the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) develops young African leaders in resource governance through hands-on training, research, and professional exposure. Participants gain skills in policy analysis, leadership, and advocacy while receiving a stipend, accommodation, and travel support. Applications close January 15, 2026.

Developing Africa’s Future Leaders in Energy and Extractive Resource Governance

Program Overview

The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program equips young African professionals with the skills and knowledge to address complex challenges in resource governance. By combining theoretical learning with practical exposure, the program develops innovative, ethical, and effective leaders in Africa’s energy and extractive sectors.

Key program objectives include:

• Building a pipeline of pan-African leaders in resource governance

• Providing structured capacity development and hands-on training

• Strengthening analytical, leadership, research, and professional skills

• Enhancing exposure to real-world policy and governance environments

Training Focus Areas

Participants receive training in:

• Resource governance in Africa and globally

• Transformational leadership and ethical decision-making

• Professional and career development

• Digital communication and technology skills

• Setting and achieving personal and professional goals

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must be:

• Young Africans residing in Africa, no older than 32 years

• Academically qualified in fields such as:

  • Economics

  • Engineering

  • Oil and gas management

  • Public policy or law

  • Development studies

  • Project management, communications, statistics, or related disciplines

• Demonstrating strong analytical, writing, and interpersonal skills

• Passionate about sustainable and inclusive resource governance

Roles and Responsibilities

Selected participants will:

• Support evidence-based policy analysis, research, and advocacy

• Contribute to program planning, evaluation, and organizational development

• Assist in stakeholder engagement and resource mobilization

• Participate in monitoring and evaluation activities

• Produce policy writing and research outputs

Benefits

• Stipend for the duration of the program

• Lunch provided daily

• Accommodation for international participants

• Return flight from the participant’s home country to Ghana

How to Apply

Applicants must submit a single PDF file including:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

2. Copies of higher education degree certificates

3. Motivational statement

4. Reference letter

5. Response to one application essay question

6. Copy of national ID

All documents must be in English or accompanied by certified English translations.

Application Deadline

• January 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM GMT

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews by end of July 2025

Why This Program Matters

The NextGen Leaders Program strengthens Africa’s capacity to:

• Develop leaders who can navigate complex energy and extractive resource governance challenges

• Promote sustainable, inclusive, and ethical resource management

• Contribute to Africa’s economic and social development through informed policy and advocacy

Tips for Applicants

• Highlight relevant academic and professional experience

• Demonstrate passion for resource governance and sustainable development

• Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and in English

• Prepare a clear and compelling motivational statement

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Who can apply?

• African nationals residing in Africa, aged 32 or below, with relevant academic qualifications.

Q2: What fields of study are eligible?

• Economics, engineering, public policy, law, development studies, oil & gas management, communications, statistics, and related disciplines.

Q3: Are international participants supported?

• Yes. Accommodation and return flight to Ghana are provided.

Q4: What is the application format?

• Submit a single PDF with CV, degree certificates, motivational statement, reference letter, essay response, and national ID.

Q5: When is the deadline?

• January 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM GMT

Q6: What skills will participants gain?

• Policy analysis, research, advocacy, digital communication, leadership, and project management skills.

Q7: How are finalists selected?

• Through an initial review of applications, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates.

Conclusion

The Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program is a premier opportunity for young Africans to gain practical experience, enhance professional skills, and contribute to sustainable and ethical energy and extractive governance across the continent. Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early and demonstrate their commitment to shaping Africa’s resource governance future.