The Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026 is a three-month, non-residential programme in Nigeria designed to enhance the capacity of professionals to research, analyze, and develop impactful policy papers. Supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, this fellowship targets early- to mid-career professionals in fields like civil society, media, think tanks, or government. The goal is to nurture thinkers who can contribute credible, data-driven analysis to Nigeria’s complex challenges (e.g., economic reforms, insecurity, gender inclusion). Applicants must hold at least a first degree, demonstrate a strong passion for public policy, and submit a 400-word Statement of Purpose along with two policy-related writing samples via email.
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Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026 Summary
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Institution/Host | Agora Policy (Supported by MacArthur Foundation) |
| Country/Region | Nigeria |
| Degree Level | Professional Development/Policy Research |
| Target Audience | Early- to Mid-Career Professionals |
| Coverage | Capacity Building, Mentorship, Public Engagement Platform |
| Reward Value/Range | Non-residential fellowship (value lies in capacity building/publication) |
| No IELTS Required | Not Applicable |
| Deadline | Applications are open (Submitted via email) |
Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026 Details
The Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026 is an initiative under Agora Policy’s Policy Support, Deepening, and Engagement (PSDE) Project, with generous backing from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. This three-month, non-residential programme is dedicated to fostering evidence-based policymaking and deepening public discourse by equipping the next generation of Nigerian thinkers with the skills to produce practical and influential policy analysis.
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Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026 Benefits
Tier 1: Capacity Building and Policy Crafting
The fellowship is structured to maximize the practical skills of participants:
- Intensive Skill Development: Fellows gain hands-on experience in research, analysis, and structuring policy documents that are both practical and influential for effective governance.
- Influential Output: By the end of the programme, participants are expected to produce a well-researched policy paper addressing one of Nigeria’s pressing governance and development challenges.
Tier 2: Engagement and Public Discourse
A key component of the fellowship is learning how to translate research into action and public understanding:
- Effective Engagement: Fellows learn strategic methods for engaging key stakeholders, including policymakers, media, and the public, to ensure their analysis reaches the right audiences.
- Public Presentation: The programme concludes with an opportunity for participants to present their policy paper for public engagement and feedback, establishing them as authoritative voices in their chosen area.
Tier 3: Addressing National Challenges
The programme is strategically focused on addressing the most critical issues facing Nigeria today:
- Topical Focus Areas: The fellowship encourages research into complex national challenges, including economic reforms, insecurity, education, gender inclusion, and climate change.
- Nurturing Advocacy: It seeks to nurture thinkers, researchers, and advocates who can shape national conversations with facts, insight, and clarity.
Eligibility Requirements for Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026
The programme targets highly motivated professionals seeking to pivot or deepen their focus on public policy analysis:
- Career Status: Must be early- to mid-career professionals.
- Work Sector: Must be currently working in civil society, the media, think tanks, or government institutions.
- Education: Must hold at least a first degree in any discipline.
- Passion: Must demonstrate a strong passion for research, writing, and public policy.
Application Requirements for the Fellowship
Applicants are required to submit four key documents via email:
- Statement of Purpose (400 words): A concise statement outlining your motivation for applying, specific policy interests you wish to explore during the fellowship, and expected learning outcomes.
- Resume or CV: A current curriculum vitae detailing professional and academic background.
- Writing Samples (Two): Two policy-related writing samples that clearly showcase your analytical and writing ability (clarity, evidence-based reasoning, and originality).
- Letter of Endorsement/Reference: A letter of endorsement or reference from a supervisor, mentor, or institutional head who can vouch for your capacity and commitment.
How to Apply for Agora Policy Writing Fellowship 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is straightforward and conducted entirely via email submission:
- Review Criteria and Focus: Review the eligibility and requirements, deciding on a specific policy area you are passionate about (e.g., education reform, governance transparency).
- Draft Documents: Draft your 400-word Statement of Purpose and prepare your CV and two policy-related writing samples.
- Secure Reference: Request a strong letter of endorsement/reference from an appropriate individual (supervisor or mentor).
- Submit via Email: Consolidate all required documents and submit them via email to the official application address.
Application Deadline: 29th November 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the duration of the Agora Policy Writing Fellowship?
The fellowship is a three-month programme.
2. Is this a residential fellowship, and does it cover living costs?
No, the programme is non-residential, meaning fellows will continue to work from their location. The primary benefit is capacity building and publication opportunities, not financial stipend for relocation or living expenses.
3. What is the main outcome expected from the fellows?
The main outcome is the production of a well-researched, impactful policy paper on a pressing Nigerian governance or development challenge, followed by a public presentation.
4. Who is supporting this fellowship programme?
The fellowship is supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, as part of Agora Policy’s Policy Support, Deepening, and Engagement (PSDE) Project.
5. Are students eligible to apply for the 2026 fellowship?
The fellowship targets early- to mid-career professionals working in specific sectors like civil society, media, or government institutions, not general students.
6. What should I focus on in my 400-word statement of purpose?
You should clearly outline your motivation, specify the policy area you wish to focus on (e.g., gender equality, economic inclusion), and describe your expected learning outcomes.
7. Is a specific degree required to apply?
No specific discipline is required, but applicants must hold at least a first degree in any field.
8. How important are the writing samples?
The two policy-related writing samples are crucial as they are used to assess your analytical ability, clarity, and evidence-based reasoning—skills central to the fellowship.
9. What sectors are the target applicants drawn from?
Target sectors include civil society, the media, think tanks, or government institutions.
10. Where should the completed application be sent?
All application materials must be submitted via email to fellowship@agorapolicy.org.
