ECOSOCC Opens Applications for the 2026 Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme in Zambia @Unknown

The Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) of the African Union has officially opened applications for the 2026 Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme. The prestigious initiative offers recent Zambian graduates an opportunity to gain hands-on experience within an African Union institution while developing practical skills in policy research, stakeholder engagement, project coordination, and governance.

The nine-month immersion programme will be hosted at the ECOSOCC Secretariat in Lusaka, Zambia, beginning on 1 August 2026. Applications are open until 26 June 2026 at 23:59 Central African Time (CAT).

About ECOSOCC

ECOSOCC serves as the African Union’s advisory organ for civil society and was established in 2004 under the AU Constitutive Act. The institution plays a critical role in connecting the African Union with civil society organizations operating across Africa and the African Diaspora.

Through various programmes and initiatives, ECOSOCC promotes citizen participation in continental governance processes and contributes to the implementation of the African Union’s strategic priorities.

About the Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme

Named in honour of Zambia’s founding President and renowned Pan-African leader, Kenneth Kaunda, the Graduate Immersion Programme is designed to equip young professionals with direct exposure to the operations of an African Union organ.

The programme places successful candidates within the ECOSOCC Secretariat, where they contribute to ongoing projects and gain practical experience in policy development and programme implementation.

Participants will be involved in:

• Policy research and analysis
• Project coordination and implementation
• Stakeholder engagement activities
• Advocacy and programme support
• Administrative and operational functions within the Secretariat

The initiative forms part of the ECOSOCC University Outreach Initiative and is implemented in collaboration with universities and research institutions across Zambia.

Benefits of the Programme

The immersion programme offers graduates a valuable platform to develop professional skills while building networks across continental institutions.

Successful participants will benefit from:

• Practical experience in international governance and policy development
• Exposure to African Union operations and decision-making processes
• Professional training in diplomacy, advocacy, research, and project management
• Mentorship from experienced ECOSOCC staff and African Union experts
• Participation in AU meetings and international engagements
• Networking opportunities with Pan-African institutions and stakeholders
• An official recommendation upon successful completion of the programme

Eligibility Requirements

Applications are open exclusively to Zambian graduates who meet the programme criteria.

Applicants must:

• Be under 35 years of age at the time of application
• Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
  • Social Sciences
  • Business Administration
  • Communication
  • Law
  • Or a related field
• Have obtained their qualification within the last five years
• Have graduated with a Distinction or Merit classification
• Demonstrate strong analytical, research, and writing skills
• Be fluent in written and spoken English

Knowledge of French or another African Union working language will be considered an added advantage.

Required Application Documents

Interested candidates must submit a complete application package consisting of the following documents:

• A one-page motivation letter written in English outlining:
  • Interest in the programme
  • Career aspirations
  • Reasons for suitability
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• University-certified copies of degree certificate(s)
• University-certified academic transcripts
• Two signed letters of recommendation

Applicants are encouraged to ensure all documents are complete and properly certified before submission.

Programme Details

Selected graduates will undertake a full-time placement at the ECOSOCC Secretariat in Lusaka.

Key programme details include:

• Duty Station: ECOSOCC Secretariat, Lusaka, Zambia
• Duration: 9 months (with the possibility of extension to one year)
• Start Date: 1 August 2026
• Reporting Line: Head of Programmes, ECOSOCC
• Employment Status: Full-time immersion placement

Although the programme does not provide a salary, participants will receive:

• A monthly transport stipend
• Logistical support from ECOSOCC
• Transportation assistance to and from the Secretariat offices located at 8658 Kudu Road, Kabulonga, Lusaka

Selection Process

The recruitment process consists of two stages designed to assess both technical competence and professional suitability.

The selection stages include:

1. Written assessment
2. Interview

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email and invited to participate in the next stage of the recruitment process.

Interviews may be conducted either:

• In person
• Via video conference

Applicants invited for interviews must present original academic certificates and supporting documents for verification purposes.

Application Deadline

Prospective candidates should submit their applications before the official closing date.

Important dates:

• Application Deadline: 26 June 2026, 23:59 CAT
• Programme Commencement: 1 August 2026

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

Eligible graduates are encouraged to submit their applications through the ECOSOCC application platform before the deadline.

Successful applicants will be notified after completion of the interview process and will be expected to commit to the full duration of the immersion programme.

Contact Information

For further information or enquiries regarding the programme, applicants may contact the ECOSOCC Secretariat directly.

Email: recruitment@ecosocc.au.int

ECOSOCC Secretariat
8658 Kudu Road
Kabulonga, Lusaka, Zambia
Telephone: +260 (0) 211 429 405

Conclusion

The 2026 ECOSOCC Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme presents an exceptional opportunity for young Zambian graduates seeking experience within the African Union system. Through practical training, mentorship, and exposure to continental governance processes, participants will gain valuable skills and professional networks that can strengthen their careers in policy, development, diplomacy, and public service.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW