Calling AI Leaders: Masakhane African Languages Hub Seeks Program Manager for Foundational AI Initiatives in 2026

A New Opportunity to Advance African Language Artificial Intelligence

The Masakhane African Languages Hub is inviting applications for the position of Program Manager, Foundational AI. This opportunity is designed for professionals passionate about artificial intelligence, research, digital innovation, programme management, and advancing the representation of African languages in emerging technologies.

The role offers an opportunity to contribute to a pan-African initiative focused on building inclusive, community-driven AI systems that ensure African languages are better represented in global technology development.

The selected candidate will provide strategic leadership in managing foundational AI investments, supporting innovative projects, and strengthening partnerships across the African AI ecosystem.

Lead Strategic AI Programmes Across Africa

The Program Manager, Foundational AI will oversee a portfolio of initiatives focused on critical areas such as:

• African language datasets
• AI benchmarking systems
• Machine learning models
• Digital infrastructure projects
• Research and technology development initiatives

The role requires someone who can manage complex programmes, support project partners, and ensure that funded initiatives deliver high-quality outputs aligned with the Hub’s mission.

The successful applicant will work closely with programme partners, researchers, developers, and community organisations to strengthen the development of African language AI solutions.

Key Responsibilities of the Program Manager

The Program Manager will play a central role in ensuring the success of multiple AI investments and partnerships.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing a portfolio of grants, investments, research projects, and technology programmes.
• Providing strategic guidance and support to project partners.
• Monitoring project progress and ensuring delivery of expected outcomes.
• Building strong relationships with awardees and technical partners.
• Supporting cohort-based approaches that encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Reviewing technical outputs and maintaining quality standards.
• Identifying opportunities to improve programme impact and effectiveness.

The position requires strong organisational skills, the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and experience working with diverse stakeholders.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements to be considered for this position.

Candidates should have:

• Full professional proficiency in English.
• Working proficiency in at least one African language.
• Relevant experience in monitoring, evaluation, and learning.
• Experience managing complex programmes, grants, investments, or research projects.
• Knowledge of AI, machine learning, digital technology, research, or related technical fields.

The ideal candidate will understand both programme management and technology-focused initiatives, with the ability to connect technical teams, communities, and strategic goals.

Experience Managing Complex Projects and Partnerships

A major focus of the application process is understanding candidates’ experience managing portfolios of work.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate experience in areas such as:

• Managing multiple projects or funding streams.
• Coordinating partnerships with organisations and research teams.
• Tracking programme performance and outcomes.
• Supporting innovation-driven initiatives.
• Ensuring accountability and effective delivery.

Candidates should highlight the size, complexity, and impact of previous programmes they have managed, including their specific responsibilities and achievements.

Supporting High-Quality AI and Technology Outputs

The role also requires experience working with technically complex programmes.

Applicants should demonstrate familiarity with areas such as:

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Data collection and management.
• Digital platforms and technology solutions.
• Research and innovation programmes.

While applicants do not necessarily need to be the leading technical experts, they should have experience ensuring quality outcomes by working effectively with technical specialists.

This includes understanding project requirements, reviewing deliverables, managing risks, and supporting teams to achieve strong results.

Why African Language AI Matters

African languages remain significantly underrepresented in many digital technologies, including artificial intelligence systems. Many existing AI tools are built primarily around widely used global languages, creating gaps in accessibility and inclusion.

The Masakhane African Languages Hub works to change this by supporting community-driven approaches to language technology development.

Through research, collaboration, and investment, initiatives like this help create AI systems that better reflect Africa’s linguistic diversity and empower communities to participate in the future of technology.

Application Process and Requirements

Interested candidates are required to submit an application form along with a combined PDF document containing:

• A CV of no more than three pages.
• A one-page cover letter explaining relevant experience and motivation for the role.

Applicants should ensure their documents clearly demonstrate their programme management experience, interest in African language technology, and ability to contribute to inclusive AI development.

The application process takes approximately 10–15 minutes to complete.

Join the Future of Inclusive Artificial Intelligence

The Program Manager, Foundational AI position represents an exciting opportunity for professionals who want to contribute to the future of technology across Africa.

By supporting datasets, research, AI models, and digital infrastructure, the successful candidate will help strengthen the role of African languages in global artificial intelligence systems.

Professionals with experience in programme management, research, technology, innovation, and community-driven development are encouraged to apply and become part of a movement building more inclusive AI for Africa and the world.

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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the  organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of  emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.