Our Program

The Next Gen Presidential Scholars Program is a strategic initiative of the International President Organization (IPO) designed to prepare a new generation of leaders capable of assuming the highest public responsibilities in the future. Conceived as an elite program, it combines academic rigor, institutional immersion, and presidential leadership development.

This selective program welcomes 30-40 participants from the African continent and the diaspora, chosen for their exceptional potential in governance, diplomacy, strategic thinking, and public transformation. It targets young leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, innovators, and institutional actors committed to building stronger, fairer, and more resilient societies.

Program Objectives

The program aims to:

• Strengthen the strategic and decision‑making skills of future leaders

• Develop a deep understanding of contemporary presidential governance standards

• Provide direct exposure to international, diplomatic, and institutional dynamics

• Support participants in structuring their national and continental vision

• Create an elite network of young leaders committed to excellence and ethical public service.

Profile of Desired Candidates

APPLICATION PACKAGE — NOMINATED CANDIDATES

2. Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must:

• Be 25 to 40 years old,

• Be nationals of an African country (Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, Togo, Senegal, Kenya, Namibia, Burkina Faso),

• Demonstrate a proven commitment to leadership, governance, innovation, or public service,

• Present a solid academic or professional background,

• Be available for the entire duration of the program.

3. Nomination Process

Candidates must be officially nominated by one of the following entities:

• An institutional leader (minister, director general, rector, ambassador, etc.),

• A member of the diplomatic corps,

• A recognized leader in governance, innovation, or public service,

• A partner organization accredited by IPO,

• A former Scholar or authorized IPO network member.

Each nomination must be accompanied by an Official Nomination Letter attesting to:

• The candidate’s leadership potential,

• Their integrity and discipline,

• Their commitment to public or institutional service,

• The relevance of their participation in the program.

3. Documents to Be Submitted by the Nominated Candidate

A. General Information Form

• Full identity

• Contact details

• Organization / Position

• Field of expertise

• Name and position of nominator

B. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)

Highlight:

• Leadership responsibilities,

• Significant achievements,

• Institutional or community engagements,

• Awards or recognitions.

C. Motivation Statement (1 page)

The candidate must explain:

• What the nomination represents to them,

• Their understanding of presidential leadership,

• The contribution they wish to make to their country or community,

• How the program fits into their career trajectory.

D. Presidential Vision Statement (500 words)

A personal text presenting:

• Their vision of modern leadership,

• Their understanding of national or continental challenges,

• Their conception of ethical and transformational governance.

E. Official Nomination Letter

Signed document from the nominator including:

• Justification for the nomination

• Assessment of the candidate’s potential

• Commitment to support their journey

F. Candidate Commitment Form Signed declaration confirming:

• Availability for the entire program,

• Adherence to IPO’s ethical and institutional standards,

• Active participation in program activities.

4. Selection Process

Even nominated candidates undergo a rigorous process:

Step 1 — Validation of Nomination Verification of eligibility and document compliance.

Step 2 — File Review Assessment of potential, vision, and coherence of background.

Step 3 — Leadership Interview Individual interview with a panel of IPO leaders and experts.

Step 4 — Final Selection Selection of the 30-40 cohort Scholars and official notification.

5. Key Dates

• Nomination deadline: August 15, 2026

• Announcement of selected Scholars: October 1, 2026

• Program start: January 28, 2027

• Program end: January 28, 2029

PROGRAM COST – First Cohort

• Total program cost: USD 8,500 per participant + USD 1,500 registration fee

• Payment: Candidates do not pay directly. The cost is covered by the nominator, sponsoring institution, or a strategic partner.

Full application must be sent to the following email: presidentipousa@gmail.com or djahafamilyfoundation@gmail.com