Apply Now: African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) 2026 Programme for Young Africans
The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) is now accepting applications for its 2026 volunteer intake. Established in 2010, AU-YVC is a flagship continental youth leadership programme that recruits, trains, and deploys young African professionals from all 55 AU Member States to serve as volunteers for a period of 12 months.
This initiative provides a unique opportunity for young Africans to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development while gaining valuable professional and leadership experience.
About the Programme
The AU-YVC promotes volunteerism as a powerful tool for youth engagement and development across Africa. It empowers young people to actively contribute to policies, programmes, and initiatives aligned with Agenda 2063 – “The Africa We Want.”
Through this programme, participants collaborate across borders, share knowledge, and build innovative solutions that support a more integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.
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Core Values
Participants of the programme are expected to uphold the core values of the African Union:
- Respect for diversity and teamwork
- Thinking Africa above all
- Transparency and accountability
- Integrity and impartiality
- Efficiency and professionalism
- Information and knowledge sharing
Eligibility Criteria
- To be eligible for the 2026 AU-YVC programme, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an AU Member State (living in Africa or the Diaspora)
- Be aged 18 to 35 years (must not exceed 35 upon completion of service)
- Possess a post-secondary qualification (TVET, Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.)
- Be available to commit to 12 months of volunteer service (2026/2027)
- Be willing to live and work in another AU Member State
- Be proficient in at least one AU working language: Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, or Spanish
- Have at least:
- One year of volunteering experience, and
- One year of professional work experience
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Required Skills
- Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Proficiency in email and internet applications
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Multilingual ability (additional AU languages are an advantage)
Core Competencies
- Successful candidates are expected to:
- Communicate clearly and effectively
- Write in a clear and concise manner
- Show commitment and professionalism
- Work effectively in multicultural environments
- Demonstrate high ethical standards and integrity
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Volunteer Benefits & Entitlements
- Selected volunteers will receive full support from the African Union Commission and its partners, including:
- Opportunity to engage in high-level continental programmes and policies
- Networking with young African leaders across the continent
- Economy return flight ticket to the country of deployment
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Comprehensive health insurance
- AU Service Passport
- Separation allowance upon successful completion
- Access to training and mentorship opportunities
How to Apply
- Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Visit the official AU careers portal: jobs.au.int
- Click on “Search Jobs” and select the AU-YVC position
- Log in or create an account
- Complete your application form
- Upload the required documents:
- Updated CV (maximum 3 pages)
- Passport bio page or National ID
- Highest academic qualification certificate
- Letter of recommendation (not older than 2 years)
- Submit a cover letter answering the following:
- Why do you want to become an African Union Youth Volunteer?
- What makes you the best candidate?
- What skills will you bring to the programme and host organization?
- Review and submit your application before the deadline
Application Deadline: April 10, 2026 (11:59 PM EAT)
Important Notes
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Providing false or incomplete information may lead to disqualification or termination
- The African Union does not charge any application or facilitation fees