African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) is pleased to announce the 2026 Leadership Training Series, designed to strengthen the leadership capacity of men and women professionals working to advance robust, resilient, and gender-responsive agri-food systems across Africa. The series targets emerging leaders to senior-level managers working in agricultural research and development who are ready to expand their influence and lead meaningful change within their organizations and institutions. The 2026 leadership training series builds critical leadership competencies needed to navigate today’s complex work environments. Participants will deepen their skills in strategic leadership, effective communication, conflict management, team building, negotiation, and decision-making, while enhancing their professional visibility and organizational impact.

About the 2026 courses

Leadership Course for Emerging Leaders  

This course is tailored for emerging leaders in today’s dynamic work in the AR4D institutions. AWARD recognizes that leadership and management in science-based organizations are as important as in the corporate world. As a result, the course is designed to equip rising professionals with foundational skills, a mindset, and the confidence to lead effectively in dynamic, evolving organizations.

Dates: August 2-26, 2026

Format: Virtual

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Women Leading in Times of Change Course

With constant global change and uncertainty, effective change leadership has never been more important. This course capitalizes on AWARD’s strong history of training women leaders from international agricultural research organizations, such as CGIAR Centers, FAO, and the World Vegetable Center, among others, to thrive. Building on these lessons, the course aims to help participants succeed amid change and uncertainty.

Dates: September 15-October 15, 2026

Format: Virtual

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Women’s Leadership and Management in Course (WLMC)

This transformative course has empowered over 1,000 women leaders from global organizations like CGIAR and FAO across 30+ countries. Led by AWARD trainers, it enhances leadership and managerial skills, focusing on emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and alliance-building to drive impactful outcomes in agricultural research and development.

Dates: November 29-December 05, 2026

Format: In-Person

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To learn more about the courses and register, contact: awardtraining@cifor-icraf.org