Applications are now open for the AWARD Gender-Responsive and Women-Led Research and Development (GROW) Fellowship Program 2026. The fellowship provides an excellent opportunity for women breeders across sub-Saharan Africa to strengthen their leadership, expand their professional networks, and advance gender-responsive agricultural research.
Moreover, the programme equips participants with the skills needed to lead inclusive breeding initiatives that address the needs of both women and men smallholder farmers. At the same time, it supports research institutions in embedding gender-responsive breeding into their systems and academic curricula.
About the AWARD Gender-Responsive and Women-Led Research and Development (GROW) Fellowship Program 2026
The AWARD Gender-Responsive and Women-Led Research and Development (GROW) Fellowship Program 2026 seeks to strengthen breeding systems across sub-Saharan Africa while increasing the number of women leading agricultural research.
Furthermore, the programme responds to two important challenges. First, it addresses the limited representation of women breeders across Africa. Second, it promotes the adoption of breeding technologies among women smallholder farmers.
Unlike traditional training programmes, the fellowship combines leadership development with practical technical knowledge. Consequently, participants become better equipped to influence research, policy, and innovation within Africa’s agricultural sector.
AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026 Overview
Here is a quick overview of the fellowship:
- Host Organization: African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD)
- Programme: Gender-Responsive and Women-Led Research and Development (GROW)
- Eligible Region: Sub-Saharan Africa
- Programme Type: Non-residential Fellowship
- Application Deadline: July 24, 2026
AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026 Objectives
The fellowship aims to:
- Strengthen gender-responsive breeding systems
- Develop women leaders in agricultural research
- Increase the visibility of women breeders
- Improve leadership and negotiation skills
- Promote inclusive agricultural innovation
- Support sustainable food systems across Africa
Additionally, the programme encourages women researchers to contribute to scientific discussions and policy development at national and regional levels.
AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026 Fellowship Activities
Selected fellows will participate in several professional development activities, including:
Women’s Leadership and Negotiation Training
Participants will strengthen their leadership capacity while improving negotiation and decision-making skills.
Mentorship Programme
Each fellow will benefit from mentorship designed to support career growth, leadership development, and professional excellence.
Knowledge Forums and Peer Learning
Participants will exchange ideas, share experiences, and collaborate with fellow women breeders from across Africa.
As a result, fellows will build valuable networks that extend beyond the duration of the programme.
Institutional Strengthening Under the AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026
In addition to supporting individual fellows, the programme strengthens research institutions and universities by integrating gender-responsive breeding into teaching and research.
The initiative focuses on institutions in four African countries.
Ethiopia
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR)
- Mekelle University
Kenya
- Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO)
- Egerton University
Nigeria
- Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)
- National Root Crops Research Institute
Uganda
- Makerere University
Therefore, the programme creates long-term institutional impact while supporting future generations of agricultural scientists.
Benefits of the AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026
Successful applicants will enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- Leadership development training
- Negotiation and communication skills
- Professional mentoring
- Peer learning opportunities
- Increased professional visibility
- Stronger research capacity
- Networking with women breeders across Africa
- Career advancement opportunities
- Opportunities to influence agricultural research and policy
Furthermore, participants gain practical skills that strengthen both their research careers and leadership potential.
If you are interested in women-focused opportunities, visit our Women Empowerment Opportunities page on OpportunityLab.net
Who Can Apply for the AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026?
The fellowship targets women breeders working across sub-Saharan Africa who are committed to advancing gender-responsive agricultural research.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Interest in agricultural research and breeding
- Commitment to gender-responsive innovation
- Leadership potential
- Desire to improve food systems across Africa
Before submitting an application, applicants should review the official eligibility requirements carefully.
How to Apply for the AWARD GROW Fellowship Program 2026
Interested applicants should complete the online application through the official AWARD application portal before the deadline.
