African School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG)

PROJECT OBJECTIVE 

The African School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG) is a capacity-building initiative dedicated to cultivating leadership and expertise in Internet governance across the African continent. Its core objective is to develop a pipeline of skilled African professionals from diverse sectors, age groups, and backgrounds, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to engage meaningfully in both local and global Internet governance processes. AfriSIG prepares participants to influence policy and contribute to shaping an inclusive and sustainable digital future for Africa. 

AfriSIG’s long-term vision is to support the creation of open and inclusive Internet policy and regulatory environments that uphold democratic values, human rights, and socio-economic development. The school builds and strengthens Internet governance-related capacity among current and emerging leaders from across stakeholder groups—including regulators, civil society actors, media professionals, technologists, legal experts, and others—while fostering cross-sectoral collaboration and peer learning. 

PROJECT IMPORTANCE 

The program’s value is evident in its ability to foster intergenerational leadership and multi-sector collaboration. AfriSIG is also notable for its principled integration of gender and human rights into policy discourse. The program challenges power dynamics in digital governance through intentional curriculum design and participant engagement. It has become a trusted space for addressing difficult issues and enabling underrepresented voices to influence regional and international policy discussions. 

The school’s growing alumni network further underscores its importance. Graduates of AfriSIG are now actively shaping Internet governance in Africa and beyond—organizing national IGFs, participating in regional and global forums (including the IGF, ICANN, and the Human Rights Council), and serving as thought leaders in their respective sectors. AfriSIG’s influence extends beyond the classroom, with demonstrable long-term impact on participants’ professional growth and on policy development processes. In strengthening multistakeholder governance and deepening Africa’s voice in global Internet policy, AfriSIG remains a foundational pillar for digital development on the continent.