Jobberman MERL Fellowship 2026

Applications are open for the Jobberman Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning (MERL) Fellowship 2026. The three-month capacity-building programme is designed for aspiring and early-career development professionals who want to build practical skills in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning.

The fellowship combines self-paced online learning, live virtual classes, expert-led mentorship, collaborative group activities, and supervised field assignments. Participants will gain practical exposure to programme monitoring, evaluation methods, research design, data collection and analysis, reporting, evidence-based decision-making, and learning systems.

The programme also aims to strengthen participants' leadership, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities while introducing them to professional standards and ethical practices in the development sector.

About the Jobberman MERL Fellowship

The Jobberman MERL Fellowship is designed to help young professionals develop the technical and practical competencies needed to pursue careers in monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning.

Participants will not only learn theoretical concepts but will also have opportunities to apply their knowledge through real-world development projects, case studies, group assignments, and supervised field activities.

The programme is particularly relevant for individuals interested in development work, social impact, programme management, research, policy, and evidence-based decision-making.

Fellowship Benefits

Successful fellows will have the opportunity to:

• Develop practical competencies in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning.
• Gain hands-on experience through field assignments.
• Learn from experienced MERL professionals and industry experts.
• Participate in real-life case studies and capstone projects.
• Receive structured mentorship throughout the fellowship.
• Strengthen leadership, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Receive a Jobberman MERL Fellowship Certificate after successfully completing the programme.
• Join the Jobberman MERL Alumni Network for continued learning, networking, and career development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Be passionate about building or advancing a career in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning.
• Demonstrate an interest in evidence-driven development and social impact.
• Be interested in contributing to development initiatives across Africa.
• Be willing to actively participate in the fellowship activities.

The programme is aimed at aspiring and early-career professionals, making it suitable for individuals who are looking to develop their MERL knowledge and gain practical experience.

Who Should Apply?

The fellowship may be particularly useful for:

• Recent graduates interested in development careers.
• Early-career development professionals.
• Monitoring and evaluation assistants.
• Research assistants.
• Programme officers.
• Social impact practitioners.
• NGO and nonprofit professionals.
• Young professionals interested in evidence-based policymaking.
• Individuals seeking to transition into MERL-related careers.

Fellowship Structure

The 12-week programme combines several learning methods to provide participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Self-Paced Online Learning

Participants will complete online learning activities that introduce core concepts and tools used in monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning.

Live Virtual Classes

Fellows will participate in live virtual sessions led by experienced professionals and practitioners.

Expert Mentorship

Participants will receive guidance from experienced MERL professionals who can provide practical insights into working in the development sector.

Collaborative Group Work

Fellows will work together on practical assignments, case studies, and projects that encourage teamwork and knowledge sharing.

Field Assignments

The fellowship includes supervised field assignments that allow participants to apply MERL concepts to real-world development activities.

Areas of Learning

During the fellowship, participants will gain exposure to areas including:

• Programme monitoring.
• Evaluation methodologies.
• Research design.
• Data collection.
• Data analysis.
• Reporting.
• Evidence-based decision-making.
• Learning systems.
• Development programme assessment.
• Practical MERL tools and approaches.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

1. Review the eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare the information required for the application.
3. Complete the online Jobberman MERL Fellowship application form.
4. Provide accurate information about your background and interest in MERL.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible because the application window closes .