Call for Applications – Truth Lab 2026

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE Phase 1: Make & Fake Lab – Online (3-13 August 2026) Ten-day online training focused on media literacy, fact-checking and digital verification. Sessions run weekdays (09:00–13:00 SAST, incl. break). Facilitated by experts and partners including Wikipedia South Africa, MOXII Africa, Dr Christopher Nehring (Germany), and the National Press Club. Note: 10 August is a public holiday in South Africa (no session). Topics include: Introduction to disinformation and its societal impact Wikipedia and open knowledge systems Indigenous and community knowledge systems Wikimedia Commons and open content production Fact-checking methodologies in African contexts AI-generated disinformation and policy Discussions with journalists and media professionals Participants will also take part in hands-on “Disinformation Lab” exercises to understand how manipulated content is created and detected. 30 participants will be selected. Phase 1 is fully online and free of charge. Phase 2: Building Narratives Studio – Johannesburg (14–18 September 2026) Five-day in-person creative workshop in Johannesburg focused on transforming verified information into accessible narratives through artistic and digital practices. Up to 20 participants will be selected from Phase 1. Creative outputs may include comics, posters, zines, illustrations and collages. The programme culminates in a public exhibition showcasing both final works and the investigative process. Covered for selected participants: Accommodation in Johannesburg (for non-Johannesburg residents, 6 nights) Daily catering (coffee breaks and lunch) Evening meal allowance (per diem, where applicable) Travel and local transport (South Africa, Lesotho, eSwatini) WHO CAN APPLY The programme is open to young professionals based in South Africa, Lesotho or eSwatini working in journalism, media, fact-checking, visual arts, illustration, design, comics, Wikipedia editing, community knowledge, education, research, or creative writing and publishing. There is no age limit. The programme targets early- to mid-career practitioners with a strong interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge production. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Residency in South Africa, Lesotho or eSwatini Early- to mid-career professional status Access to internet and digital device Availability for Phase 1 (3–13 August 2026, mornings) Willingness and ability to travel to Johannesburg for Phase 2 (if selected) Valid passport SELECTION CRITERIA Phase 1 selection (30 participants): Motivation and understanding of the programme Quality of previous work or portfolio Ability to contribute to a multidisciplinary group Vision for applying learnings Commitment to full participation Phase 2 selection (up to 20 participants): Active participation in Phase 1 Quality of outputs produced Creative potential and motivation Complementarity of skills Clarity of project ideas HOW TO APPLY Apply via the online form. Deadline: 28 June 2026 at 23:59 (SAST) All applications must be submitted in English. Contact: culture@frenchinstitute.org.za If you do not hear back by 19 July 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.