The Africa Science Leadership Programme is now calling for applications from aspirants in Africa in 2023. Do you have an interest in this opportunity? Read to the end because we will be discussing the eligibility criteria, its benefits and step-by-step application process.
Africa Science Leadership Programme (ASLP) is an initiative of the University of Pretoria in partnership with the Global Young Academy, funded by the Robert Bosch Stiftung Foundation. It serves early- to mid-career researchers in basic and applied science, engineering, social sciences, arts and the humanities.
The Africa Science Leadership Programme aims to grow mid-career academics in Africa in the areas of thought leadership, team development, engagement and collaboration, with the intention of enabling them to solve the complex issues that face both Africa and the global community.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: South African
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Reward: Full Sponsorship
Details:
The Africa Science Leadership Programme:
- Identifies early- to mid-career academics who have demonstrated leadership potential and an interest in developing key leadership skills
- Supports them to apply the acquired skills to projects that are relevant to the academic development on the continent and its impact on society
- Creates a network of academic leaders on the continent, spanning not only across countries, but also across disciplinary boundaries
- Advances a curriculum for academic leadership development which can be utilised in institutions in Africa and beyond.
Requirements for The Africa Science Leadership Programme:
The following criteria are used as a guide for the nomination and selection of the Africa Science Leadership fellows:
- A PhD or equivalent qualification
- A faculty or a continuing research position at a research institution;
- Active in research and teaching at an African institution of higher education or research;
- A sustained record of outstanding scientific outputs;
- Interest in translating and communicating the results of their work for impact in society;
- Demonstrated leadership ability in research and beyond;
- Interest in the role of research in addressing complex issues affecting society;
- Interest in collaborations across disciplines and sectors (e.g. industry, government, etc.);
- Commitment to participate in all the activities of the fellowship; and
- Intent to share what is learned in the programme with their broader networks.
Duration and Reward
The Africa Science Leadership Programme will use a highly interactive approach to training, application of skills to a leadership project, peer support, and mentorship. Fellows will attend an initial 5 day, intensive on-site programme in Pretoria, South Africa from 01-05 December 2023 (departing on the 06th). The process will involve an approach that cycles between theory, application and reflection. Participants will be challenged to work collaboratively to design initiatives that advance a new paradigm for African science.
The training will cover:
- Core elements of collective leadership
- Creative and systems thinking
- Development of effective networks
- Stakeholder engagement for change
- Maximising the efficiency and impact of collaborative efforts
- Advanced dialogue and communication skills
- Effective problem solving and decision making
Required Documents for The Africa Science Leadership Programme
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;
- All applicants have to provide two support letters from academic referees (details are provided in the application form).
- Please ensure that the support letters are sent from an accredited institutional email address.
- One of the two referees has to commit to be involved in future communications and mentorship in case of selection of the applicant into the programme. This referee will be informed about the progress of the fellow and should be willing to support the fellow if he or she requires it.
Method of Application for The Africa Science Leadership Programme
All applications will be reviewed and shortlisted by representatives of the University of Pretoria, the Global Young Academy, national young academies, and ASLP Management. The final selection of candidates will be made by the ASLP Management team.
Key dates:
| 15 July 2023 | Applications close |
| 01-08 September 2023 | Outcome letters sent to applicants |
| 31 November 2023 | Arrival of fellows in Pretoria |
To be selected, applicants need to display a compelling vision of their future involvement in the development of research projects, programmes, human capacity, specific policies or societal structures.
The selection process will consider individual qualities but also focus on ensuring a diversity of culture, subject background (Natural and Social Sciences, Humanities) and gender among the fellows. Where possible the programme will also attempt to create small ‘cores’ of leadership; multiple strong applicants from the same center or country will thus be considered.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Application Deadline
Applicants are to completely submit applications before the Deadline: July 15, 2023
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