The African Union and the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) invite applications for the Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme aimed at cultivating future leaders in the biomanufacturing sector across Africa.
This initiative aligns with the call for a New Public Health Order that ensures the health and economic security of the continent while fulfilling the aspirations set forth in Agenda 2063.
Background
The current manufacturing landscape in Africa reveals a concerning statistic: less than 1% of vaccines administered on the continent are produced locally.
This dependency on foreign manufacturers poses a significant challenge to the continent’s health system, particularly in responding to health crises and pandemics.
The Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM), established by the African Union in 2021, has set an ambitious target for the continent to manufacture 60% of its vaccine doses by 2040, with interim goals of 10% by 2025 and 30% by 2030.
In 2024, this initiative evolved into the Platform for Harmonized African Health products Manufacturing (PHAHM), broadening its mandate to include diagnostics and therapeutics.
The Challenge
To realize the goal of increased local vaccine manufacturing, the African continent needs to significantly enhance its workforce in this sector, estimating a requirement of over 12,000 FTEs as opposed to the current 3,000.
However, the lack of comprehensive training programs tailored to biomanufacturing has left many graduates and existing professionals under-equipped.
Proposed Solution
To address this training gap, Africa CDC is launching the Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme, designed to cultivate the necessary competencies within the biomanufacturing workforce.
This program will focus on developing specializations and providing hands-on training, thereby contributing to a robust workforce capable of leading Africa’s biomanufacturing industry.
Eligibility Criteria
The Biomanufacturing Fellowship Programme is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:
Minimum Qualifications: A Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
- Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry and Biochemistry
- Biochemical Engineering
Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of African Union Member States, especially those with active vaccine manufacturing companies.
Additional Requirements:
- Must possess a valid passport
- Willingness to dedicate time for both virtual and in-person training.
- Ability to obtain a leave of absence from the current employer.
- Submission of a support letter from the employer.
Selection Process
A committee established by the Africa CDC PHAHM will review all applications. Only the top five candidates will be selected and notified for further processes.
Programme Duration
The fellowship will take place from July 2025 to June 2027.
Funding Details
Africa CDC will provide comprehensive funding, including:
- Daily subsistence allowance (DSA) for training-related travel.
- Return flight tickets to training locations.
- Travel and health insurance coverage.
- A laptop and internet allowance.
- Visa fees for travel.
- A post-fellowship allowance.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 30th May 2025
- Notification of Selected Candidates: 15th June 2025
Commitment to Diversity
Africa CDC encourages applications from all qualified individuals within AU Member States, regardless of gender, race, disability, religious belief, caste, or marital status. Women are particularly encouraged to apply.
Application Process
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must complete the application form available at the following link: Application Form.
For any inquiries regarding the fellowship programme, please reach out via email at MwilaC@africacdc.org or visit the Africa CDC website at www.africacdc.org.
Together, let us bolster Africa’s health capabilities through advanced biomanufacturing training!
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