The Fellow of the International African Society of Sciences (FIASS) designation is the highest honor conferred by the Society. It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated sustained excellence, transformative impact, and visionary leadership in scientific research, innovation, education, policy, or public engagement. Fellowship reflects a career of distinguished service and intellectual contributions that advance the mission of the Society and the global scientific enterprise.

Eligibility Criteria:

Nominees are expected to meet a composite of the following criteria, although exceptional achievement in selected areas may merit consideration:

1. Distinguished Recognition: Attainment of prestigious scientific awards, major grants, patents, or landmark discoveries with wide influence.
2. Leadership in Science: Proven leadership in academia, research institutions, science policy, or technology-based enterprises.
3. Scientific Dissemination: Delivering invited talks or keynotes at high-level conferences, summits, or expert panels.
4. Publication Record: A significant body of scholarly work in reputable, peer-reviewed scientific journals or interdisciplinary outlets.
5. Innovation and Application: Contributions to technology development, translational science, public health, or societal innovation.
6. Capacity Building and Mentorship: Active roles in mentoring early-career researchers, leading training programs, or supporting scientific workforce development.
7. Commitment to Equity and Inclusion: Evidence of advancing gender equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence in science and professional environments.
8. Global and Cross-Sector Collaboration: Demonstrated history of interdisciplinary, cross-sector, or international scientific collaboration.
9. Policy or Community Impact: Direct influence on science-informed public policy or engagement with community-based science initiatives.
10. Future Potential: Clear trajectory for continued influence and thought leadership in science or science diplomacy.

Selection Process

The Fellowship selection process shall be rigorous, impartial, and rooted in scholarly merit and professional integrity. Nominations must be submitted by at least two existing FIASS Fellows or members of the Executive Council, accompanied by a detailed nomination dossier including the candidate’s CV, a citation of achievements, and supporting documentation.

All nominations undergo initial screening by the Fellowship Committee, which conducts a peer-review evaluation based on the eligibility criteria. The Committee may solicit confidential external reviews to ensure objectivity and domain expertise.

The final slate of candidates recommended by the Committee is subject to approval by the Governing Council of the Society.
Fellowship is conferred annually, and new inductees shall not exceed 10% of the total existing Fellows in any given year to maintain exclusivity and honor.

Rights and Responsibilities:

FIASS Fellows are full members of the Society and hold elevated privileges and responsibilities. They may vote and contest for any elective position, serve on standing or ad hoc committees, and contribute to shaping the strategic and scientific direction of the Society.

Fellows are entitled to use the post-nominal title “FIASS” in recognition of their status. They are expected to serve as mentors, peer reviewers, evaluators, and ambassadors, supporting the Society’s mission in advancing science, capacity development, and African scientific leadership globally. Fellows are also expected to participate actively in fellowship nominations, policy consultations, and Society-led scientific publications or forums.

Recognition and Privileges

New Fellows will be formally inducted at the Society’s Annual Scientific Research Conference or General Assembly. Each Fellow will receive an official Fellowship Certificate and Medal, symbolizing their election into the College of Fellows.

FIASS Fellows are prominently featured in the Official Directory of Fellows, highlighted in Society communications and spotlighted in media campaigns. They receive priority selection for speaking engagements, policy roundtables, advisory committees, and leadership roles in scientific events sponsored by the Society or its affiliates.

Fellows may also be invited to represent IASS in international delegations, summit panels, or multilateral scientific initiatives, thereby amplifying the visibility of African science at the global level.