New South Institute | 12-Month Young Scholar Programme | Deadline: Friday, 30 May 2025

The New South Institute (NSI) is pleased to announce the Young Scholar Programme, an initiative to empower emerging researchers committed to contributing towards public sector reform programmes in South Africa and the Global South.

We invite applications from young scholars in public management and public policy whose work explores innovative approaches to public sector reform areas, including public leadership and governance, public leadership service delivery, public service values and ethics, policy innovation, institutional development and accountability mechanisms.

Who Should Apply:

– Early-career researchers, postgraduates, and final-year undergraduates
– Individuals aged 21–35 from South Africa and across the African continent whose research is focused on the Global South
– Scholars with a demonstrable interest in public administration, policy, development studies or related fields

Submission Requirements:
– Abstract (max 300 words) outlining your research interest or research project
– Short bio (two pages max), highlighting your details, leadership roles, achievements, level of education, experience, and your statement of ambition as a researcher
-A one-page letter of recommendation from your lecturer, departmental head, or institutional head will be advantageous.

Programme Highlights:
– Selected scholars will present their work at a symposium hosted by NSI.
– Researchers will participate in mentorship sessions with practitioners and experienced researchers.
– Researchers will have the opportunity to publish in NSI Working Papers or partner journals.

– Researchers will have access to relevant short courses in partnership with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS).
– Researchers will receive a certificate of recognition and benefit from networking opportunities.

Important Dates:

– Submission deadline: Friday, 30 May 2025
– Interviews and notification of acceptance: June 2025
– Programme launch: June 2025

How to Apply:

Please send your application materials to info@nsi.org.za with the subject line: NSI Young Scholar Programme.

Contact:

For inquiries, please reach out to revatib@nsi.org.za