First Cohort, 2026

Programme Timeline

Every stage of the programme, from the call for applications to the alumni community.

  1. Open Now

    Applications

    The national call for applications. The portal is open and accepting applications. A closing date has not been announced.

  2. 18 September - 2 October 2026 2 weeks Now

    Application Review

    Every application submitted before the deadline is screened and verified. Decisions are sent to the email address on the application.

  3. 5 - 9 October 2026 1 week Indicative

    Orientation

    Successful applicants are welcomed onto the platform, meet their track facilitators and are shown how the coursework runs.

  4. 12 - 30 October 2026 3 weeks Indicative

    Virtual Learning

    Compulsory general courses and your specialised track, delivered online with assignments and quizzes. Engagement here decides who proceeds to the in-person engagement.

  5. 2 - 13 November 2026 2 weeks Indicative

    Selection & Preparation

    Virtual engagement scores are assessed, participants are selected for the in-person engagement, and travel and venues are arranged.

  6. 16 - 18 November 2026 3 days Indicative

    In-Person Engagement

    Three days of hands-on labs, mentoring and the innovation challenge, held in person.

  7. From 19 November 2026 Ongoing Indicative

    Post-Programme Community

    Graduates keep their portal access and join the alumni community: mentorship circles, the opportunity desk and seed-grant pathways.

Dates marked indicative follow from the programme's published durations and are confirmed to participants by email before each stage begins.