Call for Applications - 2026 ECOSOCC Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme
| Start Date | |
|---|---|
| End Date | |
| Country (Duty Station) | Zambia |
| City (Duty Station) | Lusaka |
ECOSOCC is recruiting recent Zambian graduates for the Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme 2026. Trainees spend 9 months at the ECOSOCC Secretariat in Lusaka working on policy research, project coordination and stakeholder engagement. Applications close on 10 June 2026 at 23:59 (Central African Time).
Background
The Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) is the African Union's advisory organ for civil society. It was established in 2004 under Articles 5(i) and 22 of the AU Constitutive Act, and connects the Union to civil society organisations working across the continent and the African Diaspora.
About the programme
The Kenneth Kaunda Graduate Immersion Programme is named after Zambia's founding president and Pan-African statesman. It places recent Zambian graduates inside the ECOSOCC Secretariat for 9 months, giving them direct working experience of how an African Union organ runs day to day.
Trainees take part in policy research, project coordination, stakeholder engagement and the Secretariat's wider programme work. The aim is to give graduates real responsibility early in their careers, and to build a pool of Zambian professionals familiar with the AU system.
The programme is part of the ECOSOCC University Outreach Initiative and runs in partnership with universities and research institutions in Zambia.
What the programme offers
- Practical experience in international governance, policy work and programme delivery.
- Training in diplomacy, research, advocacy and project management.
- Mentorship from senior ECOSOCC staff and AU experts.
- Exposure to AU meetings and international convenings.
- A working network across AU bodies and Pan-African institutions.
- An official recommendation on successful completion.
Who can apply
You must be under 35 years of age at the time of application (AU youth-status criterion).
You also need:
- a master's or bachelor's degree in social sciences, business administration, communication, law or a related field, awarded in the last five years;
- a graduating classification of Distinction or Merit;
- strong analytical, research and writing skills;
- fluency in English, written and spoken. French or another AU working language is an advantage.
What to submit
Your application must include:
- a letter of motivation — one page maximum, size 12 font, in English, covering your interest in the programme, career plans and why you're a fit;
- a CV;
- university-certified copies of your degree certificate(s);
- university-certified academic transcripts;
- two signed letters of recommendation.
Practical details
The programme does not pay a salary. Trainees receive a monthly transport stipend, and ECOSOCC provides logistical support including transport to the office at 8658 Kudu Road, Kabulonga, Lusaka.
Supervision
Trainees report to the Head of Programmes at ECOSOCC. There are regular performance reviews, and trainees submit progress reports throughout the placement.
How to apply
Selection has two stages: a written assessment and an interview. Shortlisted candidates are contacted by email.
Interviews are held in person or by video conference. Bring original certificates and supporting documents to the interview for verification.
Successful candidates are notified after the interview. The placement is full-time for the full 9 months.
Enquiries
All enquiries relating to this Call for Applications shall be addressed to the ECOSOCC Secretariat at recruitment@ecosocc.au.int.
ECOSOCC Secretariat · 8658 Kudu Road, Kabulonga, Lusaka, Zambia · T: +260 (0) 211 429 405
