A PUNCH correspondent has won one of 41 INMA Africa Elevate 2026 scholarships awarded to emerging media professionals across the continent.
The International News Media Association selected the journalists to take part in its annual fellowship programme, which focuses on developing the next generation of African news leaders. INMA targets journalists who show promise in their newsrooms and have the potential to shape the future of media on the continent.
The PUNCH journalist was among media professionals chosen from multiple African countries. The selection process considers candidates' work quality, career trajectory, and commitment to journalism excellence. INMA has run the Africa Elevate programme for several years, identifying and training promising journalists who might otherwise lack access to such development opportunities.
The scholarship covers training, mentorship, and networking sessions with established media figures and industry experts. Fellows participate in workshops designed to sharpen their reporting skills, business acumen, and leadership abilities. The programme also connects participants with peers from other African newsrooms, fostering a community of practice across the continent.
For PUNCH, the recognition adds to the newspaper's track record of producing journalists who excel in their field. The award signals that the newsroom continues to nurture talent capable of meeting international standards. The journalist joins a growing list of PUNCH staff who have accessed prestigious fellowships and scholarships over the years.
INMA's decision to expand its scholarship cohort to include 41 professionals reflects increased confidence in African journalism's future despite economic and political headwinds facing many newsrooms. The association has long maintained that investing in journalists directly strengthens the entire media ecosystem across Africa. The 2026 cohort will begin their fellowship programme in the coming months, with exact dates and curriculum details to follow from INMA.
