Scholarship Overview
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Overview
The NetHope Humanitarian AI Research Fellowship 2026/2027 is a pilot program designed to expand the community of researchers and practitioners who understand how artificial intelligence can responsibly advance humanitarian and development work. This part-time, remote fellowship is internationally open and runs for a short term, producing research findings that NetHope’s Member organizations and the broader nonprofit sector can apply immediately.
NetHope is a consortium of nearly 60 leading global nonprofits that delivers technology solutions to improve development and humanitarian outcomes. The fellowship reflects their commitment to building responsible AI capacity within the sector.
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What the Fellowship Offers
Fellows receive a stipend in recognition of their time and contributions. The specific amount is disclosed to selected fellows and detailed in the fellowship agreement. Beyond financial support, participants gain:
- Access to NetHope’s network of humanitarian and development organizations
- Opportunity to influence AI policy and practice in the nonprofit sector
- Professional development in responsible AI research
- Remote, flexible work arrangement
Research Streams
The fellowship offers two distinct research tracks:
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Stream 1: Adoption & Governance
This stream focuses on how humanitarian organizations adopt AI technologies and govern their use. Ideal candidates have backgrounds in policy, program evaluation, or humanitarian/international development systems. Experience with technology adoption or organizational change is advantageous.
Stream 2: AI Systems & Localization
This stream examines technical aspects of AI deployment in humanitarian contexts. Candidates should have backgrounds in computer science, machine learning, or applied data science, with interest in the humanitarian sector. Experience in model evaluation and/or red teaming is a plus.
Eligibility Requirements
NetHope welcomes applicants from mid-career to seasoned practitioners. There are no nationality restrictions, making this accessible to Zimbabwean and SADC region professionals. Key requirements include:
- Strong writing and analytical skills
- Genuine interest in responsible AI’s role in humanitarian impact
- Ability to sustain an independent research project on a fixed timeline
- Self-direction and strong written communication
- Relevant background for your chosen stream (policy/evaluation or technical)
For African applicants, particularly those in Zimbabwe and the SADC region, this represents a rare opportunity to engage with global humanitarian AI discourse without relocating. Your regional expertise in development challenges is a valuable perspective.
Required Application Documents
Your complete application must include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Professional history and relevant experience
- Letter of Interest: Addressing three specific questions (see below)
- Two to three professional references: Contact information for referees
- Writing sample (optional): Demonstrating research or analytical capability
Letter of Interest Requirements
Your letter must respond to these three questions:
- Describe your motivations, relevant experience, and interest in working in the humanitarian and nonprofit sector.
- Identify one of the top concerns or risks associated with AI in the humanitarian sector, explain why it matters, and briefly describe one possible mitigation approach.
- Describe an AI tool (open-source, commercial, or in-house) you’ve used or evaluated in a real project—not a demo. Explain one way it under-performed for its actual context and how you discovered this. Do not include confidential information about employers or clients.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Prepare your CV and identify two to three professional referees
- Draft your letter of interest, carefully addressing all three required questions
- Optionally select a writing sample that showcases your research abilities
- Submit your application through the official NetHope application portal before the deadline
- Monitor your email for any follow-up requests or interview invitations
Why This Fellowship Matters for African Professionals
For researchers and practitioners in Zimbabwe and across the SADC region, this fellowship offers several distinct advantages:
- No relocation required: The remote format eliminates visa and travel barriers
- Currency flexibility: Stipends are typically paid in hard currency, valuable in volatile economic environments
- Regional expertise valued: Your firsthand knowledge of development challenges in Southern Africa is directly relevant to humanitarian AI research
- Network access: Connect with major international NGOs that operate programs across Africa
- Career positioning: Build credentials in the emerging field of responsible AI for development
Important Dates
Application Deadline: October 9, 2026
Fellowship period: 2026/2027 academic year (specific dates to be confirmed with selected fellows)
Official scholarship page: https://www.nethope.org/
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
