Call for SIHI Fellows 2026: Apply for Social Innovation in Health Fellowship
The SIHI Fellows 2026 application is now open, inviting early-career researchers passionate about social innovation in health to join a global learning and research network. Organized by the Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI), this six-month fellowship focuses on co-creating short, open-access learning videos that advance innovation in health systems across low- and middle-income countries.
With an application deadline of 16 February 2026, this opportunity is ideal for young researchers eager to combine research, storytelling, and real-world impact.
What Is the SIHI Fellowship Program?
The SIHI Fellowship Program was created to prepare the next generation of leaders in social innovation research. Rather than being a traditional academic fellowship, SIHI emphasizes collaboration, co-creation, and knowledge sharing.
Through this program, selected fellows work closely with SIHI Hubs to develop accessible learning materials that highlight innovative health solutions. As a result, fellows gain both research experience and practical communication skills.
Moreover, the fellowship is designed to strengthen local research capacity while contributing to global knowledge on social innovation in health.
About the Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI)
The Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI) is a global network of individuals and institutions dedicated to advancing social innovation in health. Importantly, SIHI is neither a funding body nor a formal partnership. Instead, it functions as a collaborative platform that pools skills, experience, and resources.
SIHI’s Mission and Vision
SIHI’s mission is to unlock the capacity within health system actors to advance social innovation. In doing so, the network supports efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improve community health outcomes.
Furthermore, SIHI focuses on promoting innovation that is locally grounded, scalable, and responsive to real health challenges in low- and middle-income countries.
History and Global Reach of SIHI
The SIHI network was launched in 2014 through a collaboration between leading global institutions, including:
- Bertha Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship, University of Cape Town
- Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship, University of Oxford
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
- TDR (UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases)
In 2017, the network expanded to include partners from low- and middle-income countries. These include institutions in Malawi, Uganda, the Philippines, China, and Colombia, working in collaboration with regional and global health organizations such as PAHO.
Consequently, SIHI now operates as a truly global network rooted in diverse local contexts.
Who Can Apply for the SIHI Fellows 2026 Program?
The SIHI Fellows 2026 application is open to early-career researchers who meet the following criteria:
- Aged 15–35 years, or
- Within 10 years of completing a terminal degree
- Affiliated with a SIHI Hub
- Strong interest in social innovation in health research
- Willingness to learn, teach, and collaborate
Therefore, this fellowship is especially suitable for young researchers seeking meaningful engagement beyond traditional academic pathways.
What Fellows Will Do During the Fellowship
Unlike conventional fellowships, the SIHI Fellowship focuses on practical knowledge sharing.
Fellowship Activities Include
- Co-creating short, open-access learning videos
- Contributing to social innovation research discussions
- Collaborating with global and regional SIHI partners
- Strengthening skills in research communication and teaching
As a result, fellows not only gain research experience but also contribute content that can be used by practitioners, policymakers, and students worldwide.
Why Apply for the SIHI Fellowship?
Participating in the SIHI Fellows 2026 program offers several unique benefits. First, fellows gain exposure to a global network of experts in social innovation and health. Additionally, the fellowship provides a platform to amplify research ideas beyond academic journals.
Most importantly, fellows become part of a movement focused on equity, innovation, and impact in health systems.
How to Apply for SIHI Fellows 2026
Interested candidates should submit their application via the official online form before the deadline.
👉 Apply here:
https://unc.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8J1on6f4rRWAtiC
🗓 Application Deadline: 16 February 2026
For questions or additional information, applicants can contact:
📧 Yusha Tao – yusha.tao@seshglobal.org