WASCI Fully Funded Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP), 2026

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Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) of the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). This article will guide you towards the application process. 

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Are you a young professional from Nigeria, Guinea, Niger, or Togo with a passion for civil society and non-profit management? 

If this is you, the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) is inviting to apply for a fully funded Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) running from July to December 2026.

Also See: BP Plc Graduate Internship Programme

About the WASCI Next Generation Internship Programme 

The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) is a regional non-governmental organisation dedicated to enhancing the capacities of civil society organisations in West Africa toward greater sustainability and operational and development effectiveness.

In response to an identified need for structured practical capacity enhancement for young West Africans, WACSI introduced a Next Generation Internship Programme (NGIP) in January 2008 aimed at developing the next generation of African scholars and practitioners. 

The programme primarily targets young West Africans, either fresh graduates or early career professionals, seeking work experience in WACSI’s core areas of work. Interns are expected to commit to WACSI for six months during which time they will be fully involved in all WACSI activities and enhance their knowledge and capacities for leadership, knowledge and programme management, and critical development issues for West Africa, among other areas.

Also See: Sahara Graduate Management Programmes

WACSI is therefore seeking interns from Nigeria, Guinea, Niger and Togo interested in enhancing their civic consciousness and developing their professional capacity. 

They will be embedded in WACSI’s core areas of work i.e. Capacity Development, Policy Influencing and Advocacy, and Knowledge Management.

Interns will gain hands-on experience in capacity development, policy influencing and advocacy, and knowledge management, while receiving full support, including accommodation (for Guinea, Niger, and Togo).

Interns from Guinea, Niger, and Togo will be based in Accra, while the Nigerian intern will be based in Abuja (applicants must already reside in Abuja as no accommodation will be provided).

Eligibility Requirements for WASCI Next Generation Internship 

Applicants must have a minimum of a first degree in international affairs, political science, public policy, law, development studies, or related fields. Applicants should also show an interest in civil society and non-profit organisation management.

This is a fully funded internship by WACSI. The institute will support interns fully with a flight to and from their home country, furnished accommodation, lunch during working days for the duration of the internship, and a monthly stipend.

Please note:

Preference will be given to applicants with high proficiency in English, French or Portuguese and a working knowledge of one other.

The successful interns from Guinea, Niger and Togo will spend a substantial part of her/his internship working at the WACSI office in Accra, Ghana.

The successful Nigerian intern will be based in the WACSI Node Office in Abuja, Nigeria. Applicants must therefore be based in Abuja, Nigeria as there is no provision for accommodation.

The internship period is from July to December 2026. Interns who are unable to complete the six-months internship will refund the total cost of the internship package to WACSI.

Also See: Chivita Graduate Trainee Programme

Job Role of WASCI Next Generation Interns

Responsibilities for Interns include:

• Supporting in designing and implementing institutional assessment tools, training, and technical support.
• Participating in unit and cross-unit programme/project planning and proposal development.
• Providing general administrative support for programmes, budget monitoring, tracking, and maintaining a calendar of activities.
• Assisting with arrangements and organisation of the various pieces of training and technical support planned under the Unit.
• Serving as a liaison between WACSI and resource persons, associates, partners, and beneficiaries.
• Aiding in designing and developing training tools such as toolkits, modules, and other indigenous training resources.
• Researching, writing, and producing briefings and fact sheets on ongoing programmes and projects.
• Developing and drafting project work plans, reports, concept notes, and other documentation, such as training and resource materials, presentations, and budget proposals.
• Conduct desktop research on policy and legislative issues
• Assist in gathering information and writing reports for policy meetings
• Assist in policy meetings and workshop preparation
• Assist in the development of policy advocacy training tool
• Support other administrative tasks
• Any other duties that the Head of the Unit may assign

Also See: Betaglass Apprenticeship Programme (BAP) for Young Nigerians

Must have skills

• Interest in civil society and non-profit organization management
• Strong research, writing and communication (verbal and written) skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong internet research skills
• Bilingual skills (French and English/ English and Portuguese)

Good to have skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Works well under pressure with minimal supervision and in a multi-cultural environment
• Proactive, willing to learn and take initiative

How to Apply for WASCI Next Generation Internship Programme 

Interested applicants should send their motivation letter and CV/Resume to recruitment@wacsi.org.

Recommended: PwC Nigeria Graduate Associate Programme

Application Deadline 

Applications close on Friday, May 1, 2026.