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Shaping Futures Academy 2026 Fully Funded Leadership & Sustainability Programme (Germany & Africa)
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Apply for the Shaping Futures Academy 2026 by IDOS: early to mid-career professionals (25-40) from selected African & European countries. Fully supported, blended online + in-person modules in Bonn (Germany). Deadline 9 Nov 2025.
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Shaping Futures Academy online and in-person modules 2026, leadership programme sustainability Germany Africa, IDOS training early mid career professionals 2026
Empowering Professionals Across Africa & Europe (Deadline: 9 Nov 2025)
Are you an early- to mid-career professional seeking to deepen your leadership, knowledge and network in the field of sustainable development, governance or civil society? The Shaping Futures Academy 2026 by IDOS offers a remarkable opportunity a blended programme combining online modules and an immersive in-person phase at Bonn, Germany (plus partners), fully supported for selected participants.
In this guide, you’ll find: what the programme offers, eligibility criteria, how to apply, tips for success and why this could be a game-changer in your career path.
Why the Shaping Futures Academy Matters
A Bridge Between Continents and Sectors
The Academy brings together professionals from selected African and European countries across sectors civil society, academia, public administration, media, business creating a trans-disciplinary peer network.
Fully Supported with High-Level Modules
Selected participants benefit from:
- A blended format: part-time online modules and an in-person residency (May-July 2026) in Bonn (Germany) and partner countries.
- Financial support: accommodation, living allowance, travel insurance and technical subsidy.
Career-Boosting for Early to Mid-Career Professionals
At ages 25-40 with at least 3 years’ professional or voluntary experience, participants gain leadership, systems-thinking and networks that strengthen their ability to contribute to sustainable development in home countries and globally.
Programme Details What You’ll Get & How It Works
Format & Timeline
- Online phases: April, September & October 2026 (part-time).
- In-person module: May to July 2026 in Bonn, Germany, co-organised with partner institution (e.g., CDD Ghana) including study trips to Berlin & Brussels.
- Learning modules include leadership, academic modules, peer learning and applied action projects.
Benefits & Support Package
- Travel to and from Germany for in-person phase
- Accommodation during the in-person module
- Monthly living allowance to cover basic living costs in Germany
- Health, accident, liability insurance for duration of stay
- Technical subsidy for participants in online modules requiring additional data/internet access.
Eligibility & Who Should Apply
Key Criteria
- Age between 25-40 years (exceptions for parental leave may apply)
- Nationals or permanent residents of the eligible countries: e.g., Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, Tunisia, Zambia, EU/EEA/UK.
- Minimum 3 years of work experience (paid or voluntary) working on issues of sustainable development or governance.
- Employer’s written support is required (statement/form)
- Good command of English (CEFR B2)
- Valid passport, availability for all modules the entire duration.
Eligible Countries Sample
Africa: Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, Tunisia, Zambia. Europe: EU countries, EEA, UK.
Apply for Shaping Futures Academy 2026 (IDOS)
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Visit the official programme page (IDOS) and read the full conditions for participation.
- Complete Application Form Part I (applicant’s statement) & Part II (employer’s statement).
- Prepare certificates, diplomas, translations if required (English, French or German).
- Submit your application online before the deadline: 9 November 2025
- Shortlisted candidates attend briefing (example: 14 Jan 2026 online) and then commence modules in 2026.
- Apply for Shaping Futures Academy 2026 (IDOS)
Why You Should Apply (and How to Stand Out)
Unique Value
- Transcontinental learning experience (Europe + Africa)
- Fully supported financial package lowers barrier to participation
- Access to network of professionals, leaders and organisations engaged in sustainability
How to Strengthen Your Application
- Emphasize measurable impact in your work: show tangible results, targets met, challenges overcome.
- Show commitment to sustainable development and governance: link your past work with future aspirations.
- Demonstrate cross-cultural mindset and readiness for collaboration: you’ll work with peers from different countries and sectors.
- Ensure support from your employer: the employer statement is mandatory.
- Proofread carefully: clarity, professionalism and authenticity matter.
FAQ – Common Questions
Q: Is this fully funded?
Yes for the in-person module, travel, accommodation and allowance are covered. For online parts, data subsidies apply.
Q: Can I apply if my project is just starting?
Yes what matters is your commitment, your current work on sustainable development or governance, and availability for the full duration.
Q: Are participants only from Africa?
No the programme includes professionals from both Africa and Europe (EU/EEA/UK) to foster cross-continental exchange.
Final Thoughts & Next Step
If you’re ready to elevate your leadership, expand your network, and gain high-level training in sustainability and governance, the Shaping Futures Academy 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity. With a strong financial support package and immersive format, it’s designed to empower professionals from Africa and Europe to lead change.
Apply now and start preparing: select your applicant statement, secure your employer’s support, and gather required documents.Apply for Shaping Futures Academy 2026 (IDOS)
Set reminders for the deadline: 9 November 2025.
Visit the official IDOS page for full details, conditions and application portal. https//kotokiven.com/Apply for Shaping Futures Academy 2026 (IDOS)
What Is the Shaping Futures Academy?
The Shaping Futures Academy is a dialogue, training and networking programme hosted by the German Institute for Development and Sustainability (IDOS). It brings together early to mid-career professionals from selected African and European countries to strengthen leadership, bridge knowledge with action, and foster transnational cooperation around sustainable development and governance.
The 2026 edition will follow a blended format combining online modules, thematic sessions, and in-person residencies in Germany and Ghana.
Key Benefits & What You’ll Gain
- Fully supported in-person modules: travel, accommodation, and logistics are covered for selected participants.
- Stipends / financial support: allowance for living costs during the residential modules.
- Blended learning: virtual modules before and after in-person sessions to maximize flexibility.
- Networking & peer learning: connect with professionals across Africa and Europe, build partnerships, and engage in dialogue on sustainability and governance.
How & Where to Apply (Link to Apply)
- Visit the official application portal on the IDOS website under “Application and Requirements”.
- Fill Application Form Part I (Applicant Statement) and Part II (Employer Statement).
- Upload supporting documents: diploma / certificate (with translation if needed), CV, references, employer letter, etc.
- Submit your application before the deadline: 9 November 2025.
🖱️ Link to Apply:
Apply for Shaping Futures Academy 2026 (IDOS)
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Tell your story: show impact, challenges overcome, measurable outcomes
- Align with sustainability / governance themes: show how your work fits into broader systems change
- Strong employer statement: pick someone who knows your work deeply
- Be authentic: include lessons learned and growth areas, not just successes
- Submit early: avoid last-minute submission errors