The AquayaLEARN Fellowship enables African students and young professionals to collaborate with Aquaya’s research team to develop and implement innovative water and sanitation solutions.
The Aquaya Institute (‘Aquaya’) is a nonprofit research and consulting organization dedicated to advancing global health through universal access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). They deliver critical insights, data, and tools to support informed policy, program, and financing decisions. This knowledge helps to secure safe water and sanitation for vulnerable populations, improving human health and well-being.
2024 Programs
Aquaya’s WaterTRACS program focuses on three key areas: monitoring water quality, conducting research to translate data into action, and strengthening the capacity of water sector stakeholders. Through these activities, WaterTRACS aims to address the pressing needs of water quality management. One opening in Ghana supporting fieldwork.
The Water Quality Assurance Fund is an initiative that Aquaya developed to improve drinking water quality in rural, low-resource settings. The Assurance Fund incentivizes professional, urban laboratories to extend water quality testing services to surrounding rural areas. The Assurance Fund also guides rural water operators in responding to water contamination and improving treatment. One opening in Kenya supporting fieldwork. Ideally speaks Kalenjin.
Project W aims to support decision-makers in achieving sustainable WASH services at scale through accessible data-driven insights. Project W is a centralized WASH data directory, analytics platform, and suite of services helping stakeholders to learn, respond, and invest more effectively. The Project W data directory currently includes more than 4,800 secondary datasets from over 40 countries. Two openings anywhere, preferably in Ghana or Kenya.
Benefits
Fellows will receive the following support:
Coverage of travel expenses (including a round-trip to Nairobi or Accra, as applicable, and research-related travel).
A stipend for lodging and additional living expenses.
Eligibility
The following qualifications are necessary for this position except as noted:
Pursuit of an MSc or PhD from a Kenyan or Ghanaian university specializing in public health, environmental resources management, urban planning, or other relevant discipline.
Eligibility to obtain the legal right to work in Ghana or Kenya.
Fluency in English.
A passion for applying science and technology to solve fundamental development challenges.
They are also looking for the following skills and attributes:
Demonstrated expertise in data management and statistical analysis.
Interest in conducting research that informs development programming.
Strong work ethic and a commitment to delivery.
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Outstanding organization and time management skills, with an attention to detail and an ability to establish systems to manage constant flows of information and deliver on deadlines.
Proven ability to successfully manage multiple and changing priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, while maintaining a positive and productive attitude and a good sense of humor!
Application Process
Submit your resume via e-mail to [email protected] along with a thoughtful cover letter. Applications will be accepted until May 31.
In your cover letter, explain why you are interested in the AquayaLEARN Fellowship and specify your preferred program (WaterTRACS, Water Quality Assurance Fund, Project W).
They will not consider applications without a cover letter. In your e-mail subject line, specify “Fellowship Application for [your name].” Candidates will then need to complete a screening form.
