Applications open for the MuseumsLab Fellowship Programme
Applications are now open for the 2026 MuseumsLab Fellowship Programme, a prestigious fully funded opportunity designed for emerging African museum professionals. The programme offers participants a unique platform to engage in cross-continental dialogue, professional growth, and cultural exchange, with activities taking place in Berlin, Germany, and Kigali, Rwanda.
Organized collaboratively by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin (MfN), and the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy, TheMuseumsLab fosters collaboration between professionals in museums, heritage institutions, art spaces, and academia across Africa and Europe. The 2026 edition will revolve around the central theme “Building Futures from Memory: Museums and Memorial Sites as Agents.” This theme highlights the transformative role of museums as spaces of memory, dialogue, and social change.
The programme begins online in May 2026 and continues with on-site sessions in Berlin and Kigali, culminating in December. Fifty Fellows—comprising scholars, curators, artists, and activists—will work together to explore the evolving role of museums in shaping the future of cultural heritage. Through workshops, seminars, and practical residencies, participants will share insights, exchange best practices, and co-create strategies for sustainable cultural development.
TheMuseumsLab also benefits from the support of an international Academic Committee and the MuseumsLab Alumni Network, both of which contribute to the fellowship’s academic direction, mentoring structure, and long-term community-building.
Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must be professionals from Africa or Europe with at least two years of experience in the museum, heritage, or art sectors. Eligible candidates should demonstrate:
- A clear connection to the programme’s 2026 theme.
- Proven professional or practical experience in areas such as archaeology, architecture, art, cultural history, natural sciences, or technology.
- Commitment to full participation in all phases of the programme, both online and onsite.
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills, including creativity, adaptability, and collaborative communication.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English is essential for effective participation.
Benefits:
Selected Fellows will receive comprehensive financial and logistical support from DAAD, covering:
- International and local transportation (economy class airfare and 2nd class train tickets).
- Local public transport and airport transfers during programme modules.
- Visa fees and partial reimbursement for health insurance.
- Accommodation during all onsite sessions and residencies.
- Entrance fees for programme-related activities.
- Daily allowances to cover meals and incidentals during onsite phases.
All travel and accommodation arrangements will be handled directly by the DAAD to ensure a seamless experience for all Fellows.
Programme Duration and Schedule:
TheMuseumsLab Fellowship runs from 6 May to 2 December 2026, structured into several key phases:
- Kick-Off Event (Online): 6 May 2026
- Module 1 (Online): 7, 11, 27, 28 May & 2 June 2026
- Module 2 (Onsite in Berlin): 15–20 June 2026 (Arrival: 14 June | Departure: 21 June)
- Residencies at European Partner Museums: 22–26 June 2026 (Arrival: 21 June | Departure: 27 June)
- Residencies at African Partner Museums: 14–18 September 2026 (Arrival: 13 September | Departure: 19 September)
- Module 3 (Onsite in Kigali, Rwanda): 21–26 September 2026 (Arrival: 20 September | Departure: 27 September)
- Closing Event (Online): 2 December 2026
Application Deadline:
2 December 2025
Interested professionals can access the official documents here:
For more details and to apply, visit the Official Webpage of the MuseumsLab Fellowship Programme.
