WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme 2027 for Young Graduates and Early Career Professionals

The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) is inviting applications for its 2027 Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP). The programme is designed for young graduates and early career professionals from Benin, Mali, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana and Nigeria who want to develop practical skills and gain professional experience in civil society and nonprofit organisation management.

Running from January to July 2027, the six month internship offers participants an opportunity to work directly with WACSI and contribute to its activities. Interns will gain exposure to areas such as capacity development, policy influencing and advocacy, knowledge management, monitoring, evaluation and learning, and communications.

The programme is suitable for candidates interested in careers in civil society, public policy, international development, research, advocacy, communications and programme management.

About the WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme

WACSI is a regional organisation that supports and strengthens civil society across West Africa. Its Next Generation Internship Programme was introduced in January 2008 in response to the need for practical professional development opportunities for young West Africans.

The programme aims to prepare emerging African professionals and practitioners by giving them hands on experience in the work of a regional civil society institute. Rather than limiting interns to observation, WACSI involves participants in its activities and provides opportunities to develop their professional knowledge, leadership abilities and practical workplace skills.

During the internship, successful candidates will work within relevant operational areas of the institute. They will contribute to ongoing activities while learning about the challenges and opportunities affecting civil society organisations and development work across the region.

Internship Areas

Applicants should identify the position that best matches their academic background, interests and professional abilities. The programme covers several operational areas, including:

• Capacity Development: Supporting activities that strengthen the knowledge, skills and institutional effectiveness of civil society organisations.
• Policy Influencing and Advocacy: Contributing to policy research, advocacy initiatives and activities that promote constructive engagement with decision makers.
• Knowledge Management: Supporting research, documentation, information management and the production of knowledge resources.
• Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning: Assisting with data collection, programme monitoring, evaluation activities and the documentation of lessons learned.
• Communications: Supporting communication activities, content development, public engagement and the dissemination of organisational information.

The official terms of reference should be consulted for the specific responsibilities and qualifications attached to each available position.

Benefits of the Internship

The WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme provides financial and practical support to selected interns. The benefits include:

• Monthly stipend: Selected interns receive a monthly stipend during the internship.
• Return flight: WACSI provides travel support between an eligible intern's home country and the placement location, where applicable.
• Furnished accommodation: Accommodation is provided for eligible interns undertaking the Accra placement.
• Weekday lunches: Interns receive lunch during working days throughout the programme.
• Practical professional experience: Participants gain direct exposure to the work of a regional civil society organisation.
• Professional development: Interns strengthen their research, communication, organisational, leadership and programme management skills.
• Regional networking: Participants have opportunities to interact with professionals and organisations working across West Africa.

Eligibility Requirements

The programme is open to applicants from the following countries:

• Benin
• Mali
• Cameroon
• Chad
• Ghana
• Nigeria

Applicants should demonstrate an interest in civil society and nonprofit organisation management. They should also possess strong research, writing and verbal communication abilities.

Other desirable qualities and skills include:

• Relevant academic qualifications for the preferred internship position.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong internet research and information gathering skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and with minimal supervision.
• Willingness to learn, take initiative and contribute to team activities.
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment.

Required Application Documents

Interested candidates should prepare the following documents:

1. An updated curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé highlighting their education, relevant experience, skills and achievements.
2. A motivation letter explaining their interest in the programme, preferred internship role and suitability for the position.

Applicants should ensure that their motivation letters are tailored to the specific role they wish to pursue. They should explain how their academic background, professional interests and relevant skills align with WACSI's work.

How to Apply

Applications for the WACSI Next Generation Internship Programme 2027 must be submitted by email.

Follow these steps:

1. Review the official announcement: Visit the WACSI application page and download the official terms of reference and application guidelines. Read the role descriptions and requirements carefully.
2. Choose your preferred position: Identify the internship area that best matches your qualifications, interests and professional goals.
3. Prepare your CV: Update your résumé to highlight relevant academic qualifications, experience, research abilities, communication skills and other strengths.
4. Write your motivation letter: Explain why you want to join the programme, why you have selected the particular role and what you hope to contribute and learn.
5. Submit your application: Send your CV and motivation letter to recruitment@wacsi.org.
6. Use the correct email subject: Include the programme name and your preferred role in the subject line. Examples include:
   • NGIP – Knowledge Management
   • NGIP – Policy Influencing and Advocacy
   • NGIP – Communications
   • NGIP – WACSI Node
   • NGIP – Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning
7. Submit before the deadline: Ensure that your application reaches WACSI before 8 November 2026. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.