The Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) is proud to announce the 2025 African Fellowships for Research in Indigenous and Alternative Knowledges (AFRIAK)—a transformative opportunity for emerging African researchers. Supported by the Mastercard Foundation, this fellowship aims to nurture a new generation of scholars committed to integrating Indigenous, local, and alternative knowledge systems into academic research and policy-making. The program also pays tribute to the late Dr. Sulley Gariba of Ghana, a respected champion of African-centred approaches to research and evaluation.
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About the Fellowship (AFRIAK Fellowship)
The AFRIAK Fellowship is designed to encourage young African researchers to engage with traditional knowledge systems and alternative epistemologies that have long been marginalized in mainstream academia. By fostering collaboration between scholars and Indigenous knowledge holders, this program seeks to reshape research methodologies and outcomes in ways that resonate with African realities.
Program Duration
The fellowship spans seven months, combining individual and collaborative research, mentorship, training, fieldwork, and knowledge-sharing activities.
AFRIAK Fellowship Program Highlights
- Induction and Mid-Term Institutes: Fellows will take part in intensive training sessions and reflective forums with peers, mentors, and knowledge bearers.
- Mentorship and Training: Participants will receive guidance from both academic mentors and Indigenous knowledge holders.
- Collaborative Research: Fellows will work in interdisciplinary teams to develop and carry out research projects that tackle real-world challenges.
- Dissemination Activities: Research findings will be shared through public dialogues, policy roundtables, and academic platforms.
- Post-Fellowship Engagement: Alumni will be invited to continue engaging through a dedicated community of practice, fostering sustained collaboration.
Who Can Apply for
Target Group
- Young Africans between 24 and 35 years old.
- Applicants must be based in Africa throughout the fellowship.
AFRIAK Fellowship Eligibility Requirements
- Individuals actively involved in research or knowledge production that incorporates Indigenous or local knowledge perspectives.
- Candidates with formal academic qualifications, such as those enrolled in or affiliated with universities, research institutions, or Indigenous knowledge centers.
- Applicants must express a strong interest in one or more of CODESRIA’s priority thematic areas.
- Up to 70% of selected fellows will be women, promoting gender equity in research.
Research Focus Areas
Applicants are expected to submit proposals aligned with the following priority areas:
- Indigenous systems of knowledge and epistemologies.
- Traditional medical practices and Indigenous health systems.
- Agriculture, agri-food systems, and local ecological knowledge.
- Indigenous contributions to climate change adaptation and sustainability.
- African pedagogies, curriculum innovation, and knowledge transmission.
- Indigenous values in social and community development.
These themes reflect pressing issues on the continent and highlight the relevance of traditional knowledge in addressing modern-day challenges.
Program Structure
Each research team will consist of seven members, including:
- Two Indigenous knowledge bearers.
- One academic mentor.
- Four to five fellows working collaboratively.
Projects will be co-developed, allowing participants to learn from both academic and community knowledge sources. This approach strengthens the bridge between theory and practice, with an emphasis on applicability and impact.
How to Apply for African Fellowships for Research in Indigenous and Alternative Knowledges
For Individual Applications
Submit the following via the CODESRIA portal:
- A one-page CV with personal and institutional details.
- A two-page concept note outlining your research idea, alignment with program themes, methodology, and expected outcomes.
- Two reference letters endorsing your qualifications and research interest.
For Group Applications (Up to 7 Members)
- One-page CV for each member, with a Principal Investigator identified.
- A joint two-page concept note.
- Two letters of recommendation for the team.
Ensure that documents are clear, concise, and aligned with the core objectives of the AFRIAK program. For further information, please refer to the CODESRIA website and the official call for proposals. Start your application today!
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 15th May 2025
Early applications are encouraged. Only complete submissions made through the official portal will be considered.
Final Thoughts
The AFRIAK Fellowship represents a critical shift toward decolonizing knowledge production in Africa. By valuing Indigenous and alternative knowledges alongside academic research, this initiative helps amplify voices that have historically been silenced. It also empowers young researchers to become thought leaders in building inclusive, sustainable, and Afro-centric futures.
We encourage all eligible candidates—especially women—to apply and become part of this exciting movement. To learn more or submit your application, please visit the official CODESRIA website today. For more opportunities, Click HERE.
