The African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC) is now accepting applications for its 2026 volunteer intake. Established in 2010, AU-YVC is a flagship continental youth leadership programme that recruits, trains, and deploys young African professionals from all 55 AU Member States to serve as volunteers for a period of 12 months.
This initiative provides a unique opportunity for young Africans to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development while gaining valuable professional and leadership experience.
About the Programme
The AU-YVC promotes volunteerism as a powerful tool for youth engagement and development across Africa. It empowers young people to actively contribute to policies, programmes, and initiatives aligned with Agenda 2063 – “The Africa We Want.”
Through this programme, participants collaborate across borders, share knowledge, and build innovative solutions that support a more integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.
Core Values
Participants of the programme are expected to uphold the core values of the African Union:
Respect for diversity and teamworkThinking Africa above allTransparency and accountabilityIntegrity and impartialityEfficiency and professionalismInformation and knowledge sharingEligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 AU-YVC programme, applicants must:Be a citizen of an AU Member State (living in Africa or the Diaspora)Be aged 18 to 35 years (must not exceed 35 upon completion of service)Possess a post-secondary qualification (TVET, Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.)Be available to commit to 12 months of volunteer service (2026/2027)Be willing to live and work in another AU Member StateBe proficient in at least one AU working language: Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, or SpanishHave at least:
One year of volunteering experience, andOne year of professional work experienceRequired Skills
Applicants should demonstrate:Strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Proficiency in email and internet applicationsGood interpersonal and communication skillsAbility to communicate effectively both orally and in writingMultilingual ability (additional AU languages are an advantage)Core Competencies
Successful candidates are expected to:Communicate clearly and effectivelyWrite in a clear and concise mannerShow commitment and professionalismWork effectively in multicultural environmentsDemonstrate high ethical standards and integrityVolunteer Benefits & Entitlements
Selected volunteers will receive full support from the African Union Commission and its partners, including:Opportunity to engage in high-level continental programmes and policiesNetworking with young African leaders across the continentEconomy return flight ticket to the country of deployment
Monthly stipend to cover living expensesComprehensive health insuranceAU Service PassportSeparation allowance upon successful completionAccess to training and mentorship opportunitiesHow to Apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:Visit the official AU careers portal: jobs.au.intClick on “Search Jobs” and select the AU-YVC positionLog in or create an accountComplete your application formUpload the required documents:Updated CV (maximum 3 pages)Passport bio page or National ID
Highest academic qualification certificateLetter of recommendation (not older than 2 years)Submit a cover letter answering the following:Why do you want to become an African Union Youth Volunteer?What makes you the best candidate?What skills will you bring to the programme and host organization?Review and submit your application before the deadlineApplication Deadline: April 10, 2026 (11:59 PM EAT)
Important Notes
Late or incomplete applications will not be consideredOnly shortlisted candidates will be contactedProviding false or incomplete information may lead to disqualification or terminationThe African Union does not charge any application or facilitation fees
