The Shaping Futures Academy 2026, an initiative of the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) in partnership with the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), is now accepting applications. This prestigious programme brings together early- to mid-career professionals from Africa and Europe who are passionate about sustainable development and good governance.

Application deadline: 9 November 2025

About the Academy

The Shaping Futures Academy offers a unique learning experience designed to strengthen leadership and policy skills for sustainable development. The 2026 edition will take place between April and October 2026, combining online and in-person learning modules across Europe and Africa.

Programme Structure

• Online Modules (April, September & October 2026)
  Conducted part-time with approximately three hours of peer learning per day. Participants will engage in a mix of plenary discussions, group sessions, and self-paced learning.
• In-Person Module (May–July 2026, Bonn, Germany)
  Hosted at IDOS in Bonn and co-organised with CDD-Ghana. The phase includes two leadership and two academic modules (one facilitated by CDD-Ghana), concluding with study trips to Berlin and Brussels.

Participants will gain knowledge from a broad range of perspectives, connect with peers across continents, and explore innovative approaches to sustainability and governance.

Eligibility

Applications are welcome from early to mid-career professionals (ages 25–40) who:

• Are nationals or permanent residents of eligible countries
• Work on issues related to sustainable development and governance
• Have at least three years of professional experience (voluntary or paid)
• Possess strong English skills (B2 CEFR or above)
• Have support from their employer (documented in the application)
• Demonstrate openness to intercultural collaboration and teamwork
• Can participate for the full duration of the Academy

Eligible countries:

• Africa: Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, Tunisia, Zambia
• Europe: EU member states, EEA countries, and the UK

Note: The 2026 cohort is limited to the countries listed above. Applicants from other partner countries (Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Morocco, and Togo) will be eligible for the 2027 cycle.
Applicants who have taken parental leave may be considered beyond the age limit.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should:

1. Review the Conditions for Participation.
2. Complete and compile all required documents:
   • Application Form Part I: Applicant’s Statement (signed).
   • Application Form Part II: Employer’s Statement of Support (signed and stamped).
   • Copies of diplomas/certificates in English, French, or German (or official translations).
3. Submit a complete application through the official IDOS online portal.
   Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applicants and their supervisors are also expected to attend an online pre-engagement briefing on 14 January 2026 (13:00–14:00 CET).

Contact

Dr. Elizabeth Chepkemboi Kötter
Head of the Shaping Futures Academy
📧 Email: shapingfutures@idos-research.de
📞 Phone: +49 (228) 94927-292

📄 Download the Shaping Futures Academy 2026 Brochure

About IDOS
The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) is a leading research and training institute that works at the intersection of global policy, development, and sustainability. Through initiatives like the Shaping Futures Academy, IDOS fosters African-European collaboration and builds leadership for a more sustainable future.

Apply now to join a vibrant international network of changemakers shaping the future of sustainable development.
🗓 Deadline: 23 November 2025