The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) has opened applications for its 2026 cohort, offering a fully funded 12-month placement for young African professionals to gain real experience while contributing to continental development.
This programme is designed for individuals ready to step beyond theory and actively engage in shaping Africa’s future. Established in 2010, AU-YVC remains one of the African Union’s flagship youth leadership initiatives, recruiting, training, and deploying young professionals across all 55 AU Member States. Participants are placed in different countries where they support development programmes aligned with Agenda 2063, often referred to as “The Africa We Want”.
Beyond service, the programme provides exposure to high-level policy environments and cross-cultural collaboration. It is not just volunteering; it is a structured pathway to leadership, growth, and continental impact.
Benefits and Opportunities
Selected volunteers will receive:
- Opportunity to engage in continental policy and programmes at the African Union
- Access to a strong network of young African leaders
- Economy return ticket to the country of deployment
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Health insurance coverage
- AU Service Passport
- Separation allowance after successful completion
- Training and mentorship throughout the programme
These benefits ensure participants can focus fully on their assignments while building valuable professional and leadership skills.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an AU Member State (including those in the diaspora such as Nigeria)
- Be aged between 18 and 35 years
- Possess post-secondary qualifications (TVET, Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.)
- Be available to commit to 12 months of service in 2026/27
- Be willing to live and work in another African country
- Be proficient in at least one AU working language
- Have at least one year of volunteering and one year of professional experience
Required Skills
Ideal candidates should have:
- Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Familiarity with email and internet tools
- Good communication and interpersonal abilities
- Ability to work both independently and in teams
- Multilingual advantage in AU official languages
For young Africans seeking purpose, exposure, and real impact, this programme offers a rare opportunity to grow while contributing meaningfully to the continent.
Applications close on April 10, 2026. To apply, visit the LINK.
