Applications are now open for the African Youth Expert Development for Climate Action (AYEDE Climate Action) Fellowship, a 12-week fully virtual capacity development programme designed to empower young Nigerians aged 18 to 35. The fellowship equips participants with interdisciplinary skills, practical tools, and structured mentorship to lead in climate policy, innovation, and green economy transformation.
The programme is implemented by the Sustainable Participatory Development and Climate Resilience Initiative (SPiD), a youth-led organisation advancing participatory climate governance, sustainable development, and community-driven resilience across Africa. Through this initiative, SPiD aims to build a new generation of African climate experts prepared for the global green workforce and committed to a just transition.
The AYEDE Climate Action Fellowship seeks to expand equitable access to quality climate education for young people. It strengthens interdisciplinary competencies across climate policy, finance, technology, and adaptation while providing professional mentorship from experienced experts. The programme also supports youth-led climate solutions through collaborative project development and enhances career readiness in emerging green economy sectors.
By the end of the fellowship, participants will gain a deeper understanding of African and global climate governance systems. Fellows will develop practical skills in climate finance and proposal writing, explore clean energy transitions and circular economy models, and apply systems thinking tools to real-world climate challenges. They will also strengthen research, monitoring and evaluation, project management, and community engagement skills. Participants will collaborate on group climate innovation projects and join a growing network of African climate professionals. Those who successfully complete all programme requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion, a recommendation letter, and may be considered for internship placement opportunities.
The pilot cohort is open exclusively to young Nigerians aged 18 to 35 who have at least one year of experience in climate or development-related work, including volunteering, academic research, or community initiatives. Applicants must demonstrate a clear commitment to climate action, be willing to dedicate approximately five hours per week, and have reliable internet access. At least 50 percent of selected fellows will be women, and applications from underserved regions and communities are strongly encouraged.
The application deadline is 14 March 2026. Interested candidates can apply via: https://forms.gle/QymBwzbXX5FjMySv5
