Applications are open for the JournalismAI Strategy Lab 2026 for African journalists and media professionals. This no-cost, five-week virtual programme supports newsroom professionals in Africa who want to make informed and strategic decisions about AI. Importantly, the application deadline is 29 November 2026 at 11:59 PM GMT.
The programme is run by JournalismAI, part of Polis at the London School of Economics and Political Science, with support from Google. Over five weeks, participants will join expert-led masterclasses, practical workshops, and peer discussions focused on AI in journalism.
Key Details:
Application Deadline: 29 November 2026 at 11:59 PM GMT
Eligible Countries: Africa
Course Location: Virtual (online); participants must be based in Africa
Duration: 5 weeks; ~5 hours per week. Two live sessions per week (Tuesday masterclass ~2 hours; Thursday workshop ~2 hours) plus ~60 minutes weekly individual assignment; includes introductory week and closing session.
Host Organization: JournalismAI (Polis, London School of Economics and Political Science) — supported by Google
Funding/Benefits: No cost (free participation)
About the Course
The JournalismAI Strategy Lab 2026 is designed for journalists and media professionals working in Africa. It helps participants build a grounded understanding of AI in journalism, including its applications and limitations. In addition, the course offers practical experience with AI tools and structured opportunities for peer learning.
By the end of the programme, participants are expected to develop a concrete action plan or project proposal they can take back to their newsroom. The cohort is limited to up to 20 participants.
Who Should Apply
This opportunity is for applicants who meet the following criteria:
- Be employed by or formally affiliated with a news organisation in Africa
- Be based in Africa
- Be fluent in English
- Be able to commit about 5 hours per week over the five-week programme
- Be available to attend all live sessions, as participation is mandatory
Freelancers are not eligible. In addition, priority will be given to candidates who can take the learning back to their organisation, such as editors, senior journalists, product leads, and founders.
Course Structure
Two live sessions are held each week: a Tuesday masterclass of about two hours and a Thursday workshop of about two hours. Participants also complete a weekly individual assignment that takes about 60 minutes. The programme includes an introductory week and a closing session.
Selected participants will also need to:
- Complete the online application form
- Provide a letter of organisational commitment from their employer
- Sign a personal commitment letter if selected
How to Apply
To apply, complete the online application form and prepare the required employer commitment letter. Before applying, make sure you can attend all live sessions and complete the weekly assignments.
👉 Visit the program page for details
