The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially opened applications for the 2026 edition of the Immersion Internship Program.
This initiative is designed to provide young graduates across West Africa with valuable professional experience in ECOWAS institutions while supporting their career development and integration into the workforce.
Internship Summary
- Host: Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
- Category: Internships | Training
- Eligible Countries: All West African Countries
- Reward: Monthly Stipends | Attractive Compensation Package
- Deadline: September 21, 2025
Internship Details
The ECOWAS Immersion Internship Program offers young graduates an opportunity to actively engage with ECOWAS programs while contributing to their efficient implementation. It provides a platform for participants to strengthen their professional skills, gain practical exposure, and foster integration into the regional workforce.
ECOWAS, also referred to as CEDEAO in French, is a regional political and economic union of fifteen West African countries. Collectively, these countries cover over 5 million square kilometers and host a population of more than 349 million people. By joining this program, participants will be immersed in ECOWAS departments, agencies, and institutions, acquiring firsthand knowledge of regional cooperation and governance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the ECOWAS Immersion Internship Program 2026, applicants must:
- Be a young graduate from one of the ECOWAS Member States
- Be 32 years or younger at the time of application
- Hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, or equivalent certificate
- Be available full-time for the duration of the program
Internship Benefits
Selected participants of the ECOWAS Immersion Internship Program will receive:
- A one-year (12 months maximum, non-renewable) internship opportunity within ECOWAS institutions, departments, agencies, or resident representations
- Monthly stipends and additional compensation support
- Practical arrangements tailored to the host structure
- Professional mentorship and the opportunity to prepare and present a final internship report to both the Human Development and Social Affairs Department and the host department
- Compulsory participation in program feedback meetings (physically or online for non-Abuja residents)
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents to complete their application:
- A formal request addressed to the ECOWAS Commissioner in charge of Human Development and Social Affairs, stating motivation, interests, preferred immersion profile, desired location, and commitment to program conditions
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) in PDF format
- A copy of a National Identity Card or Passport (PDF or JPEG)
- Copies of academic certificates or their equivalent (PDF)
Note: Candidates may apply for a maximum of two positions only.
How to Apply
To apply for the ECOWAS Immersion Internship Program 2026:
- Visit the official internship application portal using the provided link
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
Important Notes:
- Internship positions are defined with ECOWAS departments and host structures before each program, allowing candidates to apply based on expressed needs
- A total of 80 positions are available for the 2026 internship program
- Beneficiaries will be selected by a Technical Selection Committee
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps
Application Deadline: September 21, 2025
To apply for this program, click HERE
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