Training and Mentoring

As part of the AIT–African Aquaculture Project, a Training and Mentoring Program is designed to develop the skills, confidence, and business acumen of young African professionals to lead sustainable aquaculture initiatives across the continent.

Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing aquaculture sectors in the world. However, the full potential of this growth can only be realized by investing in youth capacity building, entrepreneurship, and hands-on technical training tailored to local contexts. Our initial focus as part of this project is to engage with aquaculture talents in Nigeria and kickstart the program immediately after the first meeting of the National Advisory Committee (NAC) and the Stakeholder engagements are completed by July 2025.

Program Objectives

• Enhance practical aquaculture skills through hands-on training in hatchery management, feed formulation, water quality, and disease control.
• Develop entrepreneurial capacity for aquaculture business planning, marketing, and value chain development.
• Promote leadership and innovation in sustainable aquaculture practices.
• Provide ongoing mentorship from leading regional and international experts.
• Promote peer learning and networking among young professionals across Africa.

Program Components

Practical Skill Development

• In-Person and remote training workshops
• Intensive modules delivered by experts from AIT and partner institutions across Africa and Asia.

Mentorship & Coaching

• One-on-one and group mentoring sessions with experienced aquaculture professionals and entrepreneurs.

Business Incubation Support

• Guidance for selected participants to refine their business models, pitch to investors, and access small grants or start-up funding.

Digital Learning Resources

• Access to manuals, video tutorials, case studies, and practical tools through the Resource Hub.

Internships & Field Exposure

• Opportunities to work alongside established farms, hatcheries, and research centers.

Who Can Participate?

• Early-career professionals in aquaculture
• Graduates and final-year students in aquaculture or related fields
• Young entrepreneurs with an interest in aquaculture business
• Extension workers and field officers seeking to upgrade skills

How to Apply

Applications open periodically through national and regional calls. Selection is based on:

• Demonstrated commitment to aquaculture development
• Potential for business or leadership impact
• Regional representation and gender balance
• Stay tuned to this page and follow us on social media for upcoming training opportunities.

Partner Institutions

The program is implemented by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in partnership with universities, research institutes, and private sector stakeholders in Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, and beyond, with support from the AIT-African Aquaculture Project supported by Gates Foundation.

Please visit our growing network for training and mentoring in Africa here.