The Virtual Civic Engagement Grant Program: Strengthening Democracy in Africa Through Professional Development

· Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations
· Public and private educational institution
· Public International Organizations and Governmental institutions

This program will engage early and mid-career professionals across the continent by offering a menu of virtual short courses in English, French and Portuguese on civic engagement that includes information adaptable to many countries and contexts. Central topics will include journalism, engaging governments, and inclusivity. The courses would be followed by interactive conversations via chat or social media platforms to form a network of similarly-minded individuals willing to develop activities or policies integrating course principles in their own institutions. An in-person training and networking opportunity will be offered to 60 participants to come together and discuss more deeply the topics of the courses. The material will include U.S. authored content and reflect the diversity of opinion in the U.S., but underscore our fundamental values of democracy and freedom. Speakers will include U.S. citizens and experts who have experience in sub Saharan Africa and the U.S.