IP Fellowship

About the IP Fellowship

The Intellectual Property (IP) Fellowship is a pioneering six-month program designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical experience in IP law, policy, and management. This initiative offers postgraduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral students — as well as professionals with a strong interest in IP — an immersive work experience in IP-focused firms and organizations.

The fellowship is structured to provide hands-on training, mentorship, and industry exposure, equipping participants with the skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of Intellectual Property. Whether you come from a legal, technical, business, or creative background, this program offers a unique opportunity to deepen your expertise and contribute meaningfully to the IP ecosystem.

Key Objectives of the Fellowship

  • Enhance practical knowledge and skills in Intellectual Property law, policy, and management.
  • Foster collaboration between academia and industry to address contemporary IP challenges.
  • Provide real-world experience in applying theoretical IP knowledge.
  • Cultivate a skilled and innovative network of African IP professionals.

Strengthen the capacity of host firms through fresh perspectives and talent contributions.

Program Structure

  1. Competitive Selection Process– Applicants will be assessed based on academic merit, demonstrated passion for IP, and potential for impact.
  2. Tailored Placements– Fellows will be matched with IP-focused firms and organizations aligned with their interests.
  3. Expert Mentorship– Each fellow will receive guidance from an experienced IP professional within their host organization.
  4. Hands-On Work Experience– Fellows will engage in real-world projects, research, and policy analysis.
  5. Capacity-Building Workshops– Monthly sessions will cover emerging IP topics, including digital innovations, green technologies, and IP commercialization.
  6. Evaluation & Certification– Upon completion, fellows will receive a certificate recognizing their contributions and learning.

Eligibility – Who Should Apply?

We encourage applications from:

  • An IP professional of African origin.
  • At least a first degree in any related field of study. A background in law is not a requirement.
  • A postgraduate degree in IP-related fields is desirable.
  • 1 – 5 years of professional experience in any field of IP practice including policy, academia, private/ public practice.
  • Professionals and graduates from diverse backgrounds (law, STEM, business, arts, etc.) with a strong interest in IP are encouraged to apply.
  • Innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs seeking to leverage IP for development.

Benefits for Fellows

  • Practical Exposure– Gain real-world experience in IP practice and policy.
  • Mentorship– Learn from leading IP experts and industry professionals.
  • Networking– Connect with key stakeholders in the global IP ecosystem.
  • Career Development– Enhance employability and professional readiness.
  • Workshops & Training– Access specialized sessions on cutting-edge IP topics.

Benefits for Host Institutions

  • Access to talented and motivated IP professionals.
  • Contributions to ongoing research and projects.
  • Strengthened CSR profile through capacity-building initiatives.
  • Fresh insights from emerging IP innovators.
  • Opportunity to mentor future IP leaders.

Application Timeline

Applications Open: 11th December 2025
Deadline: 29th December 2025
Fellowship Begins: February 2026

Join the Next Generation of IP Leaders!

For inquiries, contact: fellowship@myiplawguide.com
Visit: https://myiplawguide.com 

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Describe how your professional and personal experiences, career goals and interests, make you the best fit for the fellowship, including your specific areas of IP interest. Also, include previous community engagements or volunteering activities - 300 words max.