African Union begins registration for 2026 Youth Volunteers program

The African Union (AU) has launched calls for interested candidates to register for its 2026/2027 Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC) program.

According to the AU, the registration which began on Mar. 26, will be open till April 10, 2026.

The AU Youth Volunteer Corps (AUYVC) is a flagship continental Youth Leadership program that recruits, trains, and deploys young African professionals from all 55 AU Member states. The volunteers will serve as professional volunteers for a period of 12 months.

AUYVC seeks to promote volunteerism while deepening the status of youths in Africa as key players in development targets. The program also enhances their participation in policy, programs, and initiatives towards the realization of AU’s Agenda2063.

Notably, the concept aligns with the 2010 decision of AU Head of States to build a continental Volunteer initiative. This is expected to promote volunteerism and also empower young people to accelerate Africa’s development.

Eligibility criteria 

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1.  Citizen of an AU Member State living on the continent or in the Diaspora.
2. Aged 18 – 35 years (must be under the age of 35 upon completing 12 months service)
3. Have post-secondary certified qualification(s) (TVET, Bachelor’s, master’s etc.)
4. Available in 2026/27 to dedicate 12 (twelve) months for professional volunteer service.
5. Willing to live and work in another AU Member State.
6. Is proficient in at least one AU working language (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese & Spanish).
7. Has at least one-year verifiable volunteering experience and one-year professional work experience.

Benefits

The African Union Commission and partners will cover the full costs of pre-deployment training and subsequent volunteer deployment for successful candidates.

An African Union Youth Volunteers receive the following benefits & opportunities:

1.  Unique opportunity to engage at highest continental policy and programs at the African Union
2.  Network with Young African leaders from across the continent
3. Economy return ticket to place of deployment
4. A monthly stipend to cover living expenses
5. Health insurance cover
6. AU Service Passport
7. Separation allowance on successful completion of twelve months service
8. Training and mentorship opportunities

Click here to apply