The Africa CDC Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme 2026 for Biomanufacturing companies (Fully Funded)

Introduction

To support the African Union’s ambition to manufacture 60% of the continent’s vaccines by 2040, there is a need to almost quadruple the current workforce of 3000 FTEs. There are insufficient purpose-built training programmes in the biomanufacturing sector, resulting in inadequate training and upskilling opportunities for university graduates and existing talent, respectively. Furthermore, available workforce upskilling initiatives are fragmented and do not favour employees, as they cannot leave their positions for extended periods.

The proposed biomanufacturing fellowship programme is designed to equip employees of biomanufacturing companies with the advanced competencies outlined in the Vaccine R&D and Vaccine Manufacturing Competency Frameworks developed by the Africa CDC. Furthermore, the programme will equip participants with knowledge and skills in leadership, mentorship, management, resource enterprise planning, and entrepreneurship. Participants will gain valuable 2-year theoretical and hands-on biomanufacturing and R&D industry experience, with a strong focus on a specialisation of their choice.

Requirements

The programme is targeted at employees of active biomanufacturing companies who hold a minimum of a Master’s degree in the following or related fields, or a Bachelor’s degree and more than 5 years of experience in the biomanufacturing sector:

• Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Biochemical Engineering
• Citizens of an African Union Member State
• Must possess a valid passport
• Must be available to participate in the fellowship programme in one of the listed countries

Benefits

Africa CDC will provide the funding, which includes:

• DSA to support daily expenses when on travels for training
• Return flight tickets to training locations
• Travel and health insurance
• Visa fees
• Post fellowship allowance

Selection Process

The Africa CDC PHAHM will establish a committee to review all applications, and only selected applicants will be contacted for further processing. Only 5 candidates will be selected.

Period of Fellowship

The programme will run from July 2026 to June 2028.

Application Timeline

• Deadline for Application: 20th April 2026
• Selected candidates will be notified by 1st June 2026
• Africa CDC welcomes applications from all qualified persons from all AU Member states, regardless of their gender, race, disability, religious belief, caste, or marital status. Women are encouraged to apply.