Overview of the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Programme
If you are an African economist or researcher looking to sharpen your skills, engage with world-class policy research, and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development agenda, this is an opportunity you cannot afford to overlook. The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Programme 2026/2027 is a prestigious collaboration between the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) and The World Bank’s Africa Region Chief Economist’s Office (AFRCE). The programme is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world economic policy by giving select African researchers hands-on exposure to the World Bank’s research environment and methodologies.
What Is the Programme About?
The Visiting Scholars Programme places selected African researchers within the World Bank’s Africa Region Chief Economist’s Office, where they work alongside senior economists and policy experts. This is not a passive fellowship — scholars are expected to contribute actively to ongoing research projects focused on African economic development, poverty reduction, trade, fiscal policy, and other pressing continental issues. The experience is invaluable for researchers who want to influence policy at the highest levels and build professional networks that span global institutions.
The AERC has long been one of Africa’s most respected institutions for economic research and capacity building, and its partnership with the World Bank amplifies the reach and impact of this programme significantly. Scholars benefit from mentorship, access to cutting-edge datasets, and the opportunity to co-author research with World Bank economists — credentials that can transform a career trajectory.
Eligibility Requirements
While full eligibility details are outlined on the official programme page, the programme is generally targeted at:
• African nationals who are affiliated with African universities or research institutions.
• Researchers with a strong background in economics or related social sciences, typically holding a PhD or being at an advanced stage of doctoral studies.
• Individuals with a demonstrable research agenda relevant to African economic development.
• Candidates who can commit to the full duration of the visiting scholar placement.
• Strong written and spoken English communication skills are typically required, given the collaborative nature of the research work.
If you are an early-career academic, a postdoctoral researcher, or even a mid-career economist working within an African institution, this programme is worth exploring seriously. The combination of AERC’s regional credibility and the World Bank’s global influence makes this one of the most competitive and rewarding fellowships available to African researchers today.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare a compelling application that typically includes a research proposal or statement of research interests, a current CV highlighting relevant academic and professional experience, academic transcripts and publications (if any), and letters of recommendation from academic supervisors or senior colleagues. Make sure your research interests align with the economic development themes prioritized by both AERC and the World Bank’s Africa Region office — this alignment is crucial to being shortlisted.
Be meticulous about following the application instructions provided on the official portal. Incomplete applications are routinely disqualified, so double-check every document before submitting.
Application Deadline
The deadline to submit your application is September 6, 2026. Given the competitive nature of this programme, it is strongly advisable to begin preparing your application materials well in advance — do not wait until the final week. Gather your reference letters early, as delays from recommenders are one of the most common reasons applicants miss deadlines.
Why You Should Apply
Opportunities like this one are rare. The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Programme offers African researchers something that most fellowships do not — direct integration into a globally influential policy research environment, with the specific mandate to produce work that matters for Africa. The professional exposure, mentorship from senior World Bank economists, and the credibility this programme adds to your academic profile can open doors at international organizations, top universities, and government policy offices across the continent and beyond.
Ready to apply? Visit the official page here: Apply Now
