The Gates Foundation AI Fellows Program 2027 offers an exciting career opportunity for African technology professionals interested in using artificial intelligence to address important challenges in healthcare, agriculture, education and international development.
The programme is expanding to Africa, inviting talented AI professionals to join its first Africa-based cohort. Selected fellows will work alongside the Gates Foundation’s regional teams, government partners and international organisations to develop practical AI solutions that can improve lives across the continent.
This 12-month opportunity is particularly suitable for professionals with experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science and software engineering who want to apply their technical skills to real-world development challenges.
At a Glance
| Opportunity Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Gates Foundation AI Fellows |
| Organisation | Gates Foundation |
| Country | Multiple African countries |
| Locations | Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Employment Type | Limited-term employment |
| Eligible Applicants | Qualified AI professionals |
| Application Deadline | 11 November 2026 |
About the Gates Foundation AI Fellows Program 2027
The Gates Foundation AI Fellows Program aims to accelerate the responsible use of artificial intelligence in global health, development and education.
The Africa-based cohort will focus on building technology that addresses practical challenges affecting communities and institutions.
Each fellow will be assigned one or two high-priority projects, working with experienced professionals and partners to develop solutions that support better decision-making and improve service delivery.
Available Project Areas
Successful candidates may contribute to projects involving:
- AI-powered healthcare decision-support systems.
- Reducing shortages of essential medicines.
- Predictive analytics for healthcare supply chains.
- Improving public financial management.
- Strengthening agricultural and development systems.
- Building AI tools for resource allocation and planning.
Programme Benefits
The Gates Foundation AI Fellowship offers several professional development opportunities, including:
- Practical experience working on high-impact AI projects.
- Mentorship from experts in artificial intelligence, healthcare and development.
- Exposure to senior foundation leadership.
- Collaboration with international organisations and government partners.
- Access to a global professional network.
- Opportunities to develop solutions with measurable social impact.
- Experience applying responsible AI technologies in African communities.
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This is a 12-month employment opportunity rather than a traditional academic scholarship. A specific salary amount has not been established in the available announcement.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Applied Mathematics or a related discipline.
- Have at least two years of experience applying AI solutions.
- Possess knowledge of machine learning, AI modelling and model evaluation.
- Have practical experience working with large language models (LLMs).
- Demonstrate software engineering and data management skills.
- Show interest in healthcare, agriculture, supply chains or development.
- Demonstrate strong communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
- Have a commitment to responsible AI and public benefit.
Programme Locations
The fellowship is based in four African locations:
- Abuja, Nigeria
- Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Nairobi, Kenya
Applicants must already have legal permission to work in their selected country without visa sponsorship. Relocation support is not provided.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should:
- Visit the official Gates Foundation recruitment portal.
- Search for AI Fellow – Africa Regional Offices.
- Review the job description and eligibility requirements.
- Prepare an updated CV and supporting information.
- Submit the online application before the deadline.
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Application Deadline: 11 November 2026.
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Final Thoughts
The Gates Foundation AI Fellows Program 2027 provides an exciting opportunity for African AI professionals to apply their technical expertise to challenges affecting millions of people. With 12 months of practical experience, expert mentorship and international collaboration, selected fellows can contribute to meaningful technological innovation across Africa.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to review the official requirements and submit their applications before the closing date.
