Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organisations operate, and African civil society groups are now being offered a chance to harness the technology to improve their impact.
- Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping how organisations operate, and African civil society groups are now being offered a chance to...
- The African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), in partnership with Cambridge University Press & Assessment, has opened applications...
- The initiative comes at a time when many non-profit organisations face growing demands for transparency, stronger reporting standards and measurable...
- The training reflects wider efforts across Africa to strengthen AI capacity and encourage the adoption of emerging technologies.
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The African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), in partnership with Cambridge University Press & Assessment, has opened applications for a two-day residential training programme on artificial intelligence for civil society leaders in Nairobi, Kenya.
AI Skills Drive for African Civil Society
The programme, scheduled for 9 and 10 July 2026, aims to equip leaders of civil society organisations with practical knowledge of how artificial intelligence can support everyday operations and long-term planning.
According to ECOSOCC, participants will receive hands-on training in areas such as proposal writing, donor research, project management, monitoring and evaluation, reporting, accountability, stakeholder engagement, and organisational learning.
The initiative comes at a time when many non-profit organisations face growing demands for transparency, stronger reporting standards and measurable outcomes, often while operating with limited resources. Artificial intelligence tools are increasingly being explored to streamline these processes and improve efficiency.
Building Capacity for the Digital Age
Beyond technical training, the programme will examine broader issues surrounding leadership, digital transformation and engagement with African Union governance processes. Organisers say the sessions will also focus on resource mobilisation strategies and the responsible use of artificial intelligence within the civil society sector.
The training reflects wider efforts across Africa to strengthen AI capacity and encourage the adoption of emerging technologies. Recent initiatives by the African Union have highlighted the importance of developing local expertise, improving digital infrastructure and promoting responsible AI governance across the continent.
Research has also pointed to a growing demand for AI-related skills in Africa, while identifying gaps in training opportunities, infrastructure, and access to resources. Experts argue that stronger collaboration between institutions and targeted learning programmes will be essential for preparing organisations and workers for an increasingly digital future.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to leaders and senior managers from registered civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, community-based organisations, professional associations and other non-profit entities. Places are limited, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
ECOSOCC has encouraged interested organisations to register early ahead of the application deadline on 25 June 2026. The council said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the role of civil society in Africa’s development agenda while ensuring organisations can make effective use of emerging technologies.
As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into governance, development and organisational management, programmes such as this are expected to help African civil society leaders build the knowledge needed to navigate a rapidly evolving digital environment.