The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in partnership with the African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative (AVMI), has launched the second cohort of its Industrial Fellowship Programme in Vaccine Manufacturing. The program aims to build Africa’s vaccine manufacturing workforce, addressing a significant skills gap across the continent. Applications close on 30 April 2026, so interested candidates should prepare early.
This fellowship targets recent graduates from African Union Member States. Fellows will gain hands-on experience in vaccine manufacturing at leading institutions in Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa. Importantly, the program focuses on developing technical skills aligned with Africa CDC’s Vaccine R&D and Manufacturing Competency Frameworks.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: 30 April 2026
Eligible Countries: African Union Member States
Program Duration: July 2026 – September 2027
Program Location: Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa
Funding/Benefits: Return flight, minimal stipend, visa fees, support documents
Award Provider: Africa CDC & African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative (AVMI)
About this Program
The Industrial Fellowship Programme addresses Africa’s urgent need for skilled vaccine manufacturing professionals. Currently, the continent faces a shortage of talent, with only 2,000–3,000 full-time employees in the field. Most of these professionals work in R&D roles not dedicated to vaccine manufacturing. Therefore, Africa CDC and AVMI designed this fellowship to provide recent graduates with practical, industry-relevant skills and make them employable in vaccine manufacturing institutions.
Fellows will spend one year at an active vaccine manufacturing site. The program emphasizes current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and technical skills development. As a result, participants will be well-prepared for roles in Africa’s growing vaccine sector.
Eligibility Criteria
- Recent graduates (within 3 years) with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomanufacturing or Vaccine Manufacturing
- Citizenship of an African Union Member State
- Valid passport
- Available to participate in Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa
- Proficiency in English or French
What Fellows Receive: Funding covers return flights, a minimal stipend for daily expenses, visa fees, and supporting documents for visa applications.
Program Components: One-year industrial placement at a vaccine manufacturing institution, hands-on training, and mentorship.
How to Apply
- Complete the application form at the official link: Application Form
- Prepare required documents (see official page for specifics)
- Submit your application before 30 April 2026
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 15 May 2026
Only 14 fellows will be selected for this cohort. Africa CDC encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including women and people with disabilities. For more information, contact [email protected].
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
