Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026: Funded Opportunity for Young Africans

Applications are now open for the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026. This funded event aims to bring young Africans together to help shape the future of public health on the continent. It is an official youth platform for the 5th International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2026).

Application Closing Date: September 13, 2026
Location: Not specified
Programme Duration: Participation in YPC 2026 and CPHIA 2026 from 23-27 November 2026
Stipend: Not specified (Sponsorship covers flights, accommodation, meals, and CPHIA registration)
Minimum Qualification: Enrolled in at least an undergraduate program, or have relevant experience in public health or related fields.
Opportunity Type: Pre-Conference Event

About the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026

The Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026 (YPC 2026) is designed to empower the next generation of leaders in Africa’s public health sector. This event will gather young professionals, students, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, advocates, communicators, and community leaders from across the continent. The goal is to foster collaboration and discussion on shaping Africa’s public health future.

This pre-conference is anchored in Africa CDC’s Health Security and Sovereignty agenda and the CPHIA 2026 ambition to achieve greater health ownership and resilience. It focuses on practical steps for young Africans to lead and build a stronger public health system. Participants will engage in dialogues and sessions that contribute to actionable recommendations.

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is a continental scientific and technical institution of the African Union. It works to strengthen the capacity of African Union Member States to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats. Africa CDC plays a key role in coordinating public health initiatives across the continent.

What the Youth Pre-Conference Offers

Selected participants will benefit from a range of opportunities designed to foster professional growth and networking. This includes joining a pan-African community of young health leaders and influencing youth priorities for CPHIA 2026. Participants will also have the chance to engage directly with prominent African public health leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators.

The event provides a platform to showcase personal work, research, ideas, or community experience. It is also an excellent opportunity to build relationships with peers from various African Union Member States. Through workshops, dialogues, and interactive sessions, attendees will develop new knowledge and expand their professional networks.

Programme Duration and Location

The Youth Pre-Conference 2026 will take place immediately ahead of the 5th International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2026). The pre-conference activities are scheduled to run from November 23 to 27, 2026. The specific location for the pre-conference is not specified in the provided information.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
• Be a citizen of an African Union Member State.
• Be currently enrolled in at least an undergraduate program or possess relevant educational, professional, or community experience in public health or related fields.
• Relevant fields include public health, medicine, nursing, community or environmental health, research, digital health and technology, health policy, public service, development, communications and journalism, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, social sciences, or other disciplines contributing to Africa’s health security and sovereignty.
• Demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to improving health through research, youth-led initiatives, advocacy, innovation, community engagement, professional practice, or related activities.
• Be available to participate fully in both YPC 2026 and CPHIA 2026.
• Be willing to contribute to peer exchange and the cultural life of the Youth Pre-Conference.

Competencies Required

Successful applicants will likely demonstrate the following qualities:

• Leadership potential
• Commitment to public health improvement
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to engage in collaborative discussions
• Willingness to share knowledge and experiences
• Adaptability and openness to new ideas

Who Should Apply?

This pre-conference is ideal for young Africans who are passionate about public health and eager to contribute to shaping the continent’s health agenda. It is suited for individuals who are already involved in public health initiatives, research, or studies and wish to connect with peers and leaders in the field. If you are a student, young professional, innovator, or advocate committed to advancing health security and sovereignty in Africa, this opportunity is for you.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:

• A completed online application form.
• A curriculum vitae (CV), not exceeding two pages.
• A copy of your passport biodata page.
• Any additional information requested within the application form.

How to Apply

Interested individuals can apply by completing the online application form. The application deadline is September 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM East Africa Time (EAT). Applications can be submitted in either English or French.

Click here to apply for the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026.

Applicants should ensure they have all required documents ready before starting the application. It is important to fill out the form accurately and submit it before the closing date.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying. Late applications will not be considered. Participants are expected to be available for the full duration of the pre-conference and the main conference.

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is September 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM East Africa Time (EAT).

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