Future Africa introduces new cohort of research fellows from 10 African countries

The Future Africa at the University of Pretoria (UP) is proud to introduce the second cohort of the Future Africa Research Leadership Fellowship (FAR-LeaF), a flagship UP initiative that seeks to develop the next generation of African research leaders. The new cohort brings together 22 exceptional early-career researchers who represent an emerging group of African scientific leaders committed to advancing knowledge for the benefit of society.

Funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, FAR-LeaF is a two-year fellowship designed to build the leadership, collaboration and transdisciplinary research skills needed to address Africa’s most persistent challenges. The programme equips postdoctoral scientists to work across disciplines and engage with society in ways that advance sustainable, evidence-informed solutions.

A defining feature of the FAR-LeaF model is its strong emphasis on mentorship and leadership development. Each fellow is paired with a senior academic from UP who provides tailored guidance on research design, academic writing, career development and opportunities for collaboration. These relationships begin during the programme’s orientation at Future Africa, where fellows meet their mentors in person and are introduced to the University’s wider research community. For many, it marks the start of a long-term partnership that will continue to shape their careers well beyond the two-year fellowship.

The new researchers will build on the achievements of the inaugural cohort, whose fellows produced impactful research outputs, forged significant collaborations and demonstrated clear evidence of the value of leadership-focused training. FAR-LeaF programme leader Professor Stephanie Burton expressed enthusiasm for the next phase of the programme.

“The success of the FAR-LeaF first cohort showed what becomes possible when we invest in early-career researchers who are ready to lead,” she said. “Their publications, partnerships and innovative work laid a strong foundation for what this programme can achieve. This new cohort brings the same depth of talent, and we look forward to supporting them as they develop research that will have a meaningful impact across the continent.”

The FAR-LeaF II contingent reflects the remarkable diversity of African institutions, with fellows drawn from universities and research organisations across West, East, Southern and Central Africa. Representing 10 countries, it brings a rich mix of contexts, expertise and research interests that span agriculture, climate change, health, governance, technology, freshwater ecosystems, food systems and science communication, reinforcing Future Africa’s mandate to serve as a collaborative platform that connects research excellence across the continent.

As the fellows begin their journey, they will participate in a structured programme that prepares them to influence policy, lead interdisciplinary teams and drive innovation. Through this experience, they will contribute to strengthening African research systems and shaping solutions that advance equitable, sustainable development.

The FAR-LeaF II Fellows