RES4Africa Foundation is opening applications for the 13th edition of its Milan Executive School, a fully funded, two-week executive education programme for experienced African energy professionals, running 23 November to 4 December 2026 in Milan, Italy.
Since launching in 2014, the programme has trained over 1,300 professionals from 38 countries, many of whom now hold key decision-making roles shaping national energy policy and renewable energy deployment across the continent. This year's edition places particular focus on AI-driven innovation in the power sector and electricity access in Africa's rapidly growing cities.
Key Details
If you're interested in applying, you can do so from August 4, 2026, until August 31, 2026. After that, the evaluation process will take place, and by September 8, they'll be notifying those who have been selected. If you're one of the lucky ones, you'll need to confirm your participation by September 15.
The program itself will be held in Milan from November 23 to December 4, 2026, and it's going to be an intensive experience, with around 80 hours of in-person training, all conducted in English. What's more, only 30 African professionals will be chosen for this edition, so it's a pretty exclusive opportunity.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this opportunity, you need to be from Africa or live there legally. You should also have at least 10 years of work experience in the energy field, if that applies to you. But it's not just about experience - the organization is looking for people who can really lead and are passionate about making energy sustainable. You'll also need to speak English fluently and be able to travel to Italy.
The programme draws from a genuinely wide professional pool, participants come from government ministries, energy regulators, utilities, renewable energy companies, financial institutions, universities and research centres, civil society organizations, and international organizations. RES4Africa states clearly it's committed to diversity, inclusion, and gender equality throughout selection, and applications from qualified women are strongly encouraged.
2026 Focus Areas
This issue focuses on two important areas. First, it looks at how artificial intelligence is changing the power sector. This includes using machine learning to predict energy production, creating smart systems to balance electricity supply and demand, detecting problems early, and using AI to maintain power infrastructure. The second area is about getting electricity to people in urban and peri-urban areas of Africa.
This is a big problem because by 2050, the number of people living in cities in Sub-Saharan Africa will double, and right now, around 110 million people in these areas don't have access to electricity. This work builds on a recent study by RES4Africa that looked at ten African cities and found ways to quickly increase access to electricity.
What the Scholarship Covers
If you're picked for this program, you'll get a full scholarship that covers a lot of things. This includes your tuition fees, a round-trip plane ticket from your home country, a place to stay, meals during the program, transportation around the local area, the materials you need to learn, and the chance to take part in all the lectures, workshops, and networking events. You'll also get to go on technical site visits.
Here's what you need to keep in mind: some costs are not included. You will still have to pay for things like visa application fees, medical and travel insurance, and transportation to and from the airport in your home country. You'll also need to cover your own personal expenses. These are your responsibility, so make sure you plan for them.
Required Documents
Applicants need a Curriculum Vitae, a motivation letter, a copy of their passport or national ID, at least one reference letter, and any additional documents specified within the application form itself. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Process
- Prepare your CV, motivation letter, passport/ID copy, and reference letter(s)
- Complete the online application form on the RES4Africa Foundation website
- Submit any additional documents the form requests
- Submit before 31 August 2026
- If you're chosen, please confirm that you'll take part by September 15, 2026.
Selection Criteria
When it comes to evaluating applications, several factors are taken into account. These include a person's work experience, their academic background, their ability to lead, and what motivates them. Also, where they are from and whether they are a man or a woman are considered. The people in charge of selecting candidates want to make sure there's a good mix of people from different places, with different jobs, and from different organizations, as well as a balance between men and women. This means that people from countries or areas that aren't represented as much might have a better chance of being chosen, even if there are a lot of strong candidates. Only the people who are chosen to move on to the next step will be contacted. And it's worth noting that the organization, RES4Africa, might also think about these applicants for other programs they have in Africa to help people build their skills.
Major Considerations
This opportunity is clearly meant for senior professionals with at least 10 years of experience. It's not for those just starting out or in the middle of their careers, but for leaders who are already making a difference in energy policy or operations. With only 30 spots available, the competition is fierce, and there are likely many applicants from all over the continent. To stand out, you'll need a really strong motivation letter that shows how your experience aligns with the program's focus areas for 2026, such as using artificial intelligence in energy systems or urban electrification. If you can make a compelling case, it could make a big difference in your application.
When you're applying for a scholarship, don't forget that it won't pay for things like visa fees or travel insurance. You need to think about these costs ahead of time, especially since getting a visa to travel to Italy can take a while - and how long it takes really depends on where you're from.
Should You Apply?
This program is perfect for high-level African energy experts who have over 10 years of experience in areas like government, regulation, utilities, renewable energy, finance, or research. It's ideal for those who want to dive deep into the latest topics, such as AI-powered energy systems and urban electrification.
If you're already in a position where you can apply new knowledge to make real decisions in your organization, this is a great fit. However, if you're just starting your career, this might not be the best choice, given the level of experience required. The program is designed for senior professionals who can use their new skills to make a real impact back home.
Never miss an opportunity. Follow us everywhere:
0 Comments