Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders (AFYEL) 2026: Gain Experience in Renewable Energy
Applications are now open for the Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders (AFYEL) Cohort 6. This six-month program is designed for early-career professionals in Africa who want to gain practical experience and training in renewable energy technologies. The fellowship includes classroom learning, an internship, a capstone project, and a virtual summit.
Application Closing Date: September 4, 2026
Location: Africa
Programme Duration: 6 months (plus 1-month internship)
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: Degree in relevant field
About the Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders (AFYEL)
The Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders (AFYEL) is a no-cost program aimed at developing a skilled workforce for Africa’s growing renewable energy sector. Many African countries still lack reliable electricity, and this fellowship addresses that gap by equipping young professionals with the technical and commercial skills needed in the energy industry. The program combines structured learning with hands-on experience.
The fellowship is run by the Renewable Energy Technology Training Institute (RETTI) through RETTI Virtual University. It partners with government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector companies across Africa’s energy value chain to provide comprehensive training.
About RETTI
RETTI (Renewable Energy Technology Training Institute) is dedicated to building capacity in the renewable energy sector. Through RETTI Virtual University, they offer programs designed to meet the urgent need for trained professionals in areas like solar, wind, bioenergy, and hydropower. Their goal is to foster talent and keep it working on solving Africa’s energy challenges.
Available Fellowship Opportunities
Applicants must select one track to specialize in. Each track offers expert-led lectures, real case studies, one-on-one mentoring, and a track-specific capstone project. The available tracks are:
- Solar PV
- Onshore Wind
- Bioenergy
- Hydropower
What the Fellowship Offers
Successful applicants will gain valuable experience and skills in the renewable energy sector. Benefits include:
- Practitioner-led training in a chosen technology track, taught by industry professionals.
- A one-month internship placement with a partner organization.
- A capstone project focused on solving a real energy access problem in the fellow’s community or country.
- A virtual summit to connect with international mentors, past fellows, and industry partners.
- Access to the AFYEL alumni network for ongoing opportunities.
Programme Duration and Location
The AFYEL fellowship program lasts for six months. This is followed by a mandatory one-month internship. The program is open to citizens and residents of any African country, with activities conducted virtually and through internships across the continent.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a recent graduate in Physics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Building/Construction Engineering, Economics, Mathematics, Accounting, Finance, or Solar Energy (or a closely related field).
- Be between 21 and 35 years old.
- Be a citizen or resident of any African country.
- Be able to read, write, and speak English at a working level.
- Be able to commit fully to the six-month fellowship and the subsequent one-month internship.
Competencies Required
The fellowship seeks individuals with specific skills and personal qualities. These include:
- Strong communication skills in English.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.
- Problem-solving skills for addressing energy access issues.
- A proactive attitude towards professional development.
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is ideal for recent graduates in relevant fields who are passionate about renewable energy and eager to contribute to solving Africa’s energy challenges. If you are between 21 and 35, hold a degree in engineering, finance, or a related discipline, and want to gain practical experience in solar, wind, bioenergy, or hydropower, this program is for you. It suits individuals committed to advancing their careers within Africa’s energy sector.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:
- Updated CV.
- Certified copy of South African ID (if applicable, otherwise national ID).
- Certified copy of Matric certificate.
- Certified copies of relevant degree certificates and academic transcripts.
- A cover letter explaining your interest in the fellowship.
- Proof of residence.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can apply online through the provided link. Ensure you have all required documents ready before starting the application.
Click here to apply for the Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders (AFYEL) – Cohort 6
Applicants are encouraged to read the requirements carefully and complete the online form accurately.
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Late applications will not be considered.
- Applicants must meet all the minimum requirements to be eligible.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are clear and certified where required.
- Commitment to the full program duration is essential.
Closing Date
The closing date for the Africa Fellowship for Young Energy Leaders (AFYEL) – Cohort 6 is September 4, 2026.
SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.

Conversation
0 Comments