The Africa Bioethics Network (ABN) invites applications for our intensive, high-impact 2-
week training program in Contemporary Bioethics. This sponsored opportunity empowers
African professionals with cutting-edge ethical frameworks rooted in African philosophies
and global best practices.
• Format: Virtual, interactive delivery
• Duration: 10 working days (30 contact hours)
• Dates: August 18-29, 2025
• Language: English
• Cohort Size: 40 participants maximum
This is not a conventional course-it is a sponsored leadership development track designed
for individuals with a strong commitment to bioethics advancement in Africa.
Valued at $1,000 USD per participant, this competitive, fully sponsored opportunity
includes:
• Interactive sessions with African and global bioethics experts
• Access to a rich digital library and training resources
• Tiered ABN certification (Participation, Competency, Excellence levels)
• Membership in ABN's exclusive alumni network
• Recognition within ABN's continental network
• Capstone project for immediate institutional application
This program targets African professionals and advanced students committed to ethical
leadership and institutional change:
Primary Candidates:
• Research Ethics Committee (REC/IRB) Members & Administrators
• Health Professionals & Clinical Researchers with ethics responsibilities
• Policy Makers & Regulators in health, research, and technology sectors
• Academic Faculty teaching or developing bioethics curricula
• Advanced Graduate Students (PhD level) in bioethics-related fields
• Early Career Researchers with ethics oversight roles
Sectors & Settings:
• Universities and research institutions
• Healthcare facilities and clinical research centers
• Government health and research departments
• NGOs and international development organizations
• Technology and digital health initiatives
Essential Requirements:
• African residence and professional/academic affiliation
• For Professionals: Minimum 3 years relevant experience in health, research, or policy
• For Students: Advanced degree (PhD/Master's) in progress with ethics component
• English proficiency for full participation in discussions and materials
• Institutional support for training participation and implementation
• Technology access: Reliable internet and device with camera/microphone
• Full commitment to attend all sessions and complete capstone project
Preferred Qualifications:
• Current or intended role in ethics oversight, research, or teaching
• Clear institutional implementation plan and support
• Experience working with underserved or vulnerable communities
• For Students: Strong academic record and research potential in bioethics-related areas
Institutional Documentation Required:
For Professionals: Line manager letter confirming support and availability
For Students: Academic supervisor endorsement letter
All Applicants: Institutional support confirmation for implementation
✅ Context-Rooted Ethical Competence: Apply bioethics principles confidently across
African settings - combining international standards with Ubuntu, Islamic bioethics, and
indigenous traditions
✅ Practical, Applied Skills: Build hands-on proficiency in REC operations, protocol review,
informed consent design, and community engagement through realistic case studies and
simulations
✅ Leadership & Policy Influence: Position yourself to shape institutional, national, or
continental ethical governance by gaining tools to lead Research Ethics Committees and
advise policy
✅ Specialization in Emerging Issues: Engage critically with AI ethics, genomics, digital
health, and environmental justice - equipped with frameworks adapted for African realities
✅ Certification with Impact: Earn tiered ABN certification with options to join mentorship
networks and gain visibility as an ethical leader in Africa
✅Continental Peer Network: Join a select network of 40 ethics professionals across Africa
for research collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth
✅ Capstone Output: Complete a practical project - institutional change brief, protocol
critique, ethics education design, or community engagement plan, for immediate
application
Applications will be evaluated based on:
1. Implementation Potential (30%) - Institutional position, support level, and realistic
change plans
2. Professional Excellence (25%) - Experience depth and leadership potential
3. Commitment to African Bioethics (20%) - Vision for continental contribution and
network engagement
4. Geographic & Sectoral Diversity (15%) - Continental representation and sector balance
5. Application Quality (10%) - Completeness, professional presentation, and ethical
reasoning
Total Available Positions: 40 participants
Submit the following through this link:
1. Online Application Form
Complete application covering professional background, ethics experience, and
implementation plans
2. Professional Statement (600-800 words)
Share your vision for ethical leadership and how this training will help you create meaningful
change in African bioethics. Template provided for guidance.
3. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages, PDF)
4. Institutional Support Letter
One letter from your line manager/supervisor confirming support for participation and
implementation
5. Two Professional References
Contact details for references (we will contact them directly with a brief form)
Applications Open June 25, 2025
Application Deadline July 20, 2025, 23:59 EAT
Notification of Selection August 01, 2025
Confirmation Deadline August 08, 2025
Training Program August 18-29, 2025
During Training:
• Full participation in all 30 contact hours over 10 days
• Active engagement in case studies, simulations, and collaborative exercises
• Professional conduct and peer collaboration
• Completion of assessments and capstone project planning
After Training:
• Complete a capstone project within 6 months
• Participate in ABN alumni network and follow-up activities
• Contribute to ABN's knowledge platform (blogs, webinars, mentorship)
• Apply training to create institutional or policy change
Upon successful completion:
• ABN Certificate of Professional Competence in Bioethics
• Digital credential badge for professional profiles
• Alumni status in ABN professional network
• Continuing education credits (where applicable)
• Potential progression to Excellence certification and mentorship roles
🌐 Submit your application here: APPLICATION PORTAL LINK
📧 For questions, contact: secretariat@africabioethicsnetwork.org
🌐 Learn more: www.africabioethicsnetwork.org
ABN is Africa's leading network for bioethics education, policy, and practice. With 1,200+
members in 40+ countries, ABN builds ethical leadership through training, research,
publications, and partnerships with international and regional institutions.
Our Impact:
• 800+ professionals trained across the continent
• Africa's first bioethics journal - African Journal of Bioethics
• Continental policy influence in research ethics and health governance
• Active networks in 40+ African countries