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ABOUT THE PROGRAM

Building research leaders for Africa

The UWRA Research Translation Fellowship is a flagship capacity-building program designed to equip emerging researchers, health professionals, and policy practitioners with the skills, knowledge, and networks to translate evidence into community impact.

Over a structured two-month training period, fellows gain hands-on experience in implementation science, evidence synthesis, knowledge translation, and community engagement — guided by experienced mentors and practitioners.

Cohort 1 successfully completed the program in April 2026. Cohort 2 is currently active. Applications for Cohort 3 will be announced — stay tuned via our website and social media.

WHAT MAKES IT UNIQUE

Program features

The fellowship is designed to be practical, collaborative, and impact-oriented.

Expert-led Training

Masterclasses and workshops delivered by leading researchers and practitioners from across Africa and globally.

Mentorship & Coaching

Each fellow is paired with a mentor who provides personalised guidance throughout the program and beyond.

Applied Research Projects

Fellows develop and implement a research translation project addressing a real-world health challenge in their community.

Peer Learning & Networking

Collaboration with a diverse cohort of fellows from multiple disciplines, institutions, and countries.

Knowledge Translation Skills

Training in policy brief writing, research communication, and engaging decision-makers and communities.

Professional Certification

Fellows receive a certificate of completion and become part of the growing UWRA alumni network.

COHORT UPDATES

Cohort information

Current status of all fellowship cohorts.

Completed

Cohort 1

Successfully completed in April 2026. 35+ fellows trained, now active in research translation roles across Africa & beyond.

Active

Cohort 2

Currently Active. Fellows to commence engagement in training, mentorship, and applied projects.

To be Announced

Cohort 3

Applications will be communicated via our website and social media channels. Stay tuned for announcements.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

Fellowship journey

A structured two-month program designed to build competencies in research translation.

Week 1–2: Foundations

Introduction to research translation, implementation science, and evidence synthesis. Orientation and goal-setting.

Week 3–4: Core Competencies

Masterclasses on knowledge translation, community engagement, policy influence, and research communication.

Week 5–6: Applied Project

Fellows design and implement a research translation project with mentorship and peer feedback.

Week 7–8: Synthesis & Presentation

Final project presentations, peer review, and certification. Alumni engagement and networking.

TESTIMONIALS

What fellows say

Voices from Cohort 1 and current Cohort 2 fellows.

“The UWRA Fellowship transformed my approach to research. I now see research not as an end in itself, but as a tool for community change. The mentorship and peer support were invaluable.”

— Ms. Sawia Hassan

Cohort 1 Fellow, Mental Health Researcher

“This program gave me the practical skills I needed to engage with policymakers and communities. I've already applied what I learned to influence maternal health policy in my county.”

— Mr. Peter Olewu

Cohort 1 Fellow, Policy Analyst

GET INVOLVED

Eligibility & application

Who should apply?

  • Early-career researchers and academics
  • Public health professionals and practitioners
  • Policy analysts and health system managers
  • Community health leaders and advocates
  • Professionals from any discipline with a passion for evidence-based change

Application process

  • Submit an online application form
  • Provide a statement of purpose and CV
  • Participate in an interview (shortlisted candidates)
  • Receive confirmation and onboarding materials

Cohort 3 applications — watch this space for the announcement. Sign up for our newsletter for updates.

Application Portal
SUPPORT THE FELLOWSHIP

Invest in the next generation of research leaders

Join us in supporting the fellowship program. Partner with UWRA to train, mentor, and empower emerging research translation leaders across Africa.

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