ECOSOCC Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme 2026 in Zambia

Applications are open for the 2026 ECOSOCC Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme (KKGIP), a prestigious professional development programme organized by the African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC). Named after Zambia’s founding President, Kenneth Kaunda, the programme provides recent graduates with hands-on experience in international governance, policy research, diplomacy, project management, and stakeholder engagement. Participants will work directly at the ECOSOCC Secretariat in Lusaka, Zambia.

Programme Overview

• Host Organization: African Union ECOSOCC
• Programme Name: Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme (KKGIP) 2026
• Location: Lusaka
• Duration: 9 Months (extendable to 12 months)
• Start Date: 1 August 2026
• Target Group: Recent Zambian Graduates
• Application Deadline: 10 June 2026 (23:59 CAT)

About the Programme

The KKGIP is part of the ECOSOCC University Outreach Initiative and aims to equip young graduates with practical experience within an African Union institution. Participants will contribute to policy research, programme implementation, stakeholder engagement, and other strategic activities while gaining valuable exposure to continental governance processes.

Benefits

Selected participants will receive:

• Practical experience in international governance and policy development.
• Training in diplomacy, advocacy, research, and project management.
• Mentorship from senior ECOSOCC staff and African Union experts.
• Exposure to African Union meetings and international events.
• Opportunities to build a professional Pan-African network.
• Official recommendation upon successful completion of the programme.
• Monthly transport stipend and logistical support.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be under 35 years of age at the time of application.
• Be a Zambian citizen.
• Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
  • Social Sciences
  • Business Administration
  • Communication
  • Law
  • Related disciplines
• Have graduated within the last five years.
• Have obtained a distinction or merit classification.
• Possess strong analytical, research, and writing skills.
• Demonstrate fluency in English. Knowledge of French or another African Union working language is an advantage.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• One-page motivation letter in English.
• Updated CV/Resume.
• Certified copies of degree certificates.
• Certified academic transcripts.
• Two signed recommendation letters.

Programme Areas

Participants will gain experience in:

• Policy Research
• Programme Coordination
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Governance and Diplomacy
• Advocacy and Communication
• Project Management
• African Union Institutional Processes

Why Apply?

The Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme offers a unique opportunity for young Zambian graduates to gain firsthand experience within an African Union institution. The programme is designed to develop the next generation of African leaders by combining practical work experience, mentorship, and exposure to continental policymaking and governance.