Call for applications: Africa CDC and AVMI Launch the Second Cohort of the Industrial Fellowship Programme in Vaccine Manufacturing
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in partnership with the African Vaccine Manufacturing Initiative (AVMI), is launching the second cohort of its Industrial Fellowship Programme in Vaccine Manufacturing to strengthen Africa’s vaccine production workforce.
The programme responds to a major skills gap in Africa’s biomanufacturing sector, where there is currently a shortage of trained professionals needed to expand local vaccine production. It supports the African Union’s long-term goal of producing up to 60% of vaccines locally by 2040 by building a highly skilled workforce.
Selected fellows will undergo a one-year, hands-on industrial training programme (July 2026–September 2027) at active vaccine manufacturing sites in Egypt, Senegal, or South Africa. The training focuses on Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and practical vaccine manufacturing skills aligned with Africa CDC competency frameworks.
The programme targets recent graduates (within 3 years) with Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees in fields such as pharmacy, biotechnology, chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or related areas. Applicants must be citizens of African Union member states and proficient in English or French.
Only 14 fellows will be selected. The programme is fully funded and includes return flights, visa support, and a modest stipend for living expenses.
Key dates:
- Application deadline: 30 April 2026
- Results announced: 15 May 2026