Call for Applications: The African Epidemic Service Program 2025 (AES) – Africa CDC Empowering Africa’s Public Health Workforce

Call for Applications: The African Epidemic Service Program 2025 (AES) – Africa CDC Empowering Africa’s Public Health Workforce

Introduction

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is inviting applications for the African Epidemic Service (AES) Program 2025, a prestigious initiative designed to build and strengthen Africa’s public health workforce. This program aims to equip early and mid-career public health professionals with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to disease outbreaks and other health threats across the continent.

With Africa facing a growing burden of infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and emerging public health threats, there is a pressing need for well-trained public health professionals who can lead outbreak investigations, strengthen health systems, and support evidence-based policymaking. The AES Program 2025 is a strategic initiative to address these challenges by providing high-quality, hands-on training in applied epidemiology and public health leadership.

Program Overview

The AES Program 2025 is a two-year, competency-based training program designed to develop leaders in field epidemiology and public health emergency response. Successful applicants will undergo rigorous training, including practical field assignments, outbreak response deployments, and advanced coursework in epidemiology, data analysis, and public health management.

Key Components of the Program

1. Field-Based Training

Participants will be embedded within National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs), ministries of health, or Africa CDC Regional Collaborating Centers (RCCs).

They will engage in real-world outbreak investigations, surveillance system strengthening, and health emergency responses.

2. Classroom and Online Training

Participants will receive structured training in applied epidemiology, biostatistics, data science, and leadership.

The curriculum includes workshops, case studies, and mentorship sessions delivered by top African and international public health experts.

3. Outbreak Response & Emergency Deployments

AES fellows will be rapidly deployed to support African Union (AU) member states during outbreaks and other public health emergencies.

They will work in multidisciplinary teams, gaining hands-on experience in emergency preparedness, risk communication, and community engagement.

4. Mentorship & Career Development

Each fellow will be paired with experienced mentors from Africa CDC, NPHIs, or international partners.

The program offers career guidance, leadership development, and networking opportunities to support long-term professional growth.

5. Capstone Project & Scientific Dissemination

Fellows will undertake a capstone research project on a critical public health issue in Africa.

They will present their findings at scientific conferences, policy forums, and in peer-reviewed journals to contribute to Africa’s public health knowledge base.

Who Should Apply?

Africa CDC is seeking highly motivated public health professionals who are passionate about strengthening Africa’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats. The program is open to applicants from all AU member states and aims to build a diverse and competent public health workforce.

Eligibility Criteria

Must be a citizen of an African Union (AU) member state.

Hold a graduate degree in public health, epidemiology, medicine, veterinary medicine, nursing, or a related field.

Have at least three years of relevant work experience in public health, disease surveillance, outbreak response, or health research.

Demonstrate strong leadership potential, analytical skills, and commitment to public health service.

Be available for full-time participation in the two-year program.

Desirable Qualifications

Experience in field epidemiology, disease surveillance, and health emergency response.

Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., R, Stata, Epi Info) and geographic information systems (GIS).

Strong communication and report-writing skills in English, French, Portuguese, or Arabic.

Ability to work effectively in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.

Why Join the AES Program?

The AES Program 2025 offers an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth and impact in the field of public health. By joining the program, fellows will:

Gain hands-on experience in outbreak investigations and public health emergency response.

Work alongside top public health experts and contribute to real-world disease control efforts.

Enhance their leadership and technical skills, preparing for senior public health roles.

Expand their professional network within Africa’s public health community.

Receive financial support, including a monthly stipend, travel allowances, and insurance coverage.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit a complete application package via the Africa CDC application portal before the deadline. The selection process is highly competitive and includes a rigorous review of qualifications, interviews, and assessment exercises.

Application Requirements

Updated CV/resume highlighting relevant public health experience.

Personal statement outlining the applicant’s motivation, career goals, and commitment to public health in Africa.

Two letters of recommendation from supervisors or mentors in the field of public health.

Academic transcripts and degree certificates.

Proof of nationality (passport or national ID copy).

Selection Process

The selection committee will review applications based on the following criteria:

Academic and professional background in public health or epidemiology.

Relevant field experience in outbreak response, disease surveillance, or health systems strengthening.

Demonstrated leadership and commitment to public health service in Africa.

Ability to work in high-pressure environments during public health emergencies.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and competency assessment before final selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the AES Program fully funded?

Yes. Selected fellows will receive a stipend, travel allowances, health insurance, and funding for field assignments and training activities.

2. Can professionals from any African country apply?

Yes. The program is open to citizens of all AU member states.

3. What are the career prospects after completing the program?

Graduates of the AES Program often take on leadership roles in national public health institutes, ministries of health, WHO, Africa CDC, and international NGOs.

4. Can I apply if I am currently working?

Yes, but successful applicants must commit to full-time participation in the two-year program.

5. Where will the training and fieldwork take place?

Fellows will be placed in various locations across Africa, including national public health institutes, Africa CDC regional offices, and outbreak response teams.

Conclusion

The AES Program 2025 is a game-changer for Africa’s public health workforce. By investing in skilled epidemiologists and public health leaders, Africa CDC is building a robust system to safeguard the health and well-being of millions across the continent.

If you are a passionate public health professional ready to make a difference, this is your chance to contribute to Africa’s epidemic preparedness and response efforts.

Apply Now and Become a Leader in Africa’s Public Health Future!

For more details and to submit your application, visit: [Africa CDC Website – AES Program Portal].