2026 German Institute for Development and Sustainability (IDOS) Shaping Futures Academy

The Shaping Futures Academy 2026 is scheduled between April and October and is organised into three connected learning blocks: three part-time online and one full-time in-person module.

The in-person phase takes place at IDOS in Bonn, Germany, jointly organised with our African partner, Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD Ghana). This phase runs from May to July 2026. It includes two leadership modules that are alternated with two academic modules, one of which is designed and facilitated by CDD Ghana. The phase will end with study trips to Berlin and Brussels.

The online phases (April, September and October 2026) are planned as a part-time programme with an estimated workload of three (3) hours of peer learning per day, utilising a variety of learning formats, combining elements of plenary and group calls, as well as self-paced learning and offline discussions.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineNovember 9, 2025
• Study LevelPostdoctoral Fellowships
• SponsorGerman Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)

Benefits

In order to facilitate participation, successful applicants to the Shaping Futures Academy will be provided a financial assistance, covering the following:

• Travel to and from Germany
• Accommodation for the duration of the in-person phase
• A monthly living allowance to cover living costs in Germany for the duration of the in-person phase*
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance for the duration of their stay in Germany
• Subsidy to help meet the technical requirements of the online phases of the programme

Requirements

Potential participants of the Shaping Futures Academy should:

• be a national or permanent resident of one of the eligible countries
• be 25 – 40 years old**;
• work on issues relevant for sustainable development and governance;
• have at least three years’ work experience (non-remunerated experience is also recognised);
• have the support of their employer (written support required as part of application);
• have a very good command of the English language (equivalent to B2 level of the CEFR);
• be respectful of other cultures;
• be open to teamwork, reflection and a broad variety of working methods;
• be available to participate for the entire duration of the Academy;
• Adhere to the principles of timeliness and respectful conduct during interactions;
• have a valid passport (at the time of travel); and
• be available, together with the supervisor who signs the employer form, to attend an informative online pre-engagement briefing on 14 January 2026 from 13 – 14 hrs CET;

Application Deadline

How To Apply

Please follow these steps in your application process:

1. Make sure you fulfil the application criteria (see below)
2. Read the Conditions for Participation
3. Complete & compile your application documents:

• Application Form Part I: Applicant’s statement – to be completed and signed by you.
• Application Form Part II: Employer’s statement of support – to be completed, signed and stamped by your employer.
• Diploma/Certificates and supporting documents in English, French or German, or a translation of your highest professional qualification and/or university degree to any of these languages.

For more details, visit German Institute for Development and Sustainability (IDOS) Shaping Futures Academy webpage