Apply for CILGD membership
CILGD membership is open to scholars, practitioners, public servants, elected officials, community leaders, and institutions advancing local governance and development. There are seven grades to match every stage of your career.
Choose the grade that matches you
FCILGD
Fellow
For senior professionals with strong academic and professional experience.
Criteria
Doctorate degree with at least 8 years’ experience, or Master’s degree with at least 15 years’ experience, or Fellowship of another recognized professional body.
MCILGD
Full Member
For experienced professionals in local governance, public administration, development, or related fields.
Criteria
Doctorate degree with at least 3 years’ experience, or Master’s degree with at least 5 years’ experience, or Bachelor’s degree with at least 8 years’ experience.
ACILGD
Associate Member
Suitable for early-career and mid-level professionals.
Criteria
Doctorate degree with at least a year’s experience, or Master’s degree with at least 3 years’ experience, or Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years’ experience.
Graduate Member
Graduate Member
For individuals who hold a university degree or diploma and are interested in building a professional career in local governance and development.
Criteria
University degree or diploma in any discipline. Interest in local governance, public administration, community development, or related sectors.
Student Member
Student Member
For students who are currently studying with CILGD or at relevant institutions.
Criteria
Current student status. Study in CILGD, Public Administration, Rural Development, Local Governance, or a related field.
Corporate Member
Corporate Member
For organizations and institutions that support local governance and development.
Criteria
Public institutions, NGOs, private organizations, corporate bodies, and development-focused institutions.
HonFCILGD
Honorary Fellow
Awarded to distinguished individuals who have demonstrated long service and outstanding contribution to governance and development.
Criteria
Distinguished long service experience. Notable contribution to governance, leadership, public service, or community development. Annual fee: Free.
How to Apply
Applying for CILGD membership is a structured, peer-reviewed process designed to maintain professional excellence and legal standing. Follow these clear steps to complete your application:
1. Select Your Grade
Review CILGD membership categories to identify the grade that matches your academic qualifications, career stage, and professional experience.
2. Complete the Application Form
Obtain and complete the official CILGD membership registration form with precise academic, professional, and institutional details.
3. Assemble Supporting Evidence
Prepare certified copies of your academic certificates, an updated professional CV, and a valid national identification document.
4. Secure Professional References
Obtain references or recommendations from current members in good standing, employers, or senior professional supervisors, if required for your grade.
5. Submit for Board Review
Email your completed application pack directly to the official administration channel. The Membership Committee conducts a thorough peer-review of all credentials.
6. Receive Formal Admission Decision
The Committee determines the appropriate membership grade allocation and issues a formal admission decision along with registration details.
7. Official Payment Instruction
Upon approval, you will receive an official payment invoice. Do not make payments until you receive this formal document detailing approved payment channels.
8. Activation & Certificate Issue
Your membership is formally activated upon complete verification, after which your digital certificate is registered on our official directory.
Application Checklist
- ✔Completed and signed registration form
- ✔Certified copies of academic and professional degrees
- ✔Detailed, current Professional CV/Resume
- ✔Valid national ID or passport copy
- ✔Two professional references (if required for grade)
- ✔Proof of payment (only after official invoice is issued)
Digital Portal Configuration
Our secure online member portal and digital application workflow are currently being configured for launch. Until the digital system is fully live, all applications are processed manually via our official email channel to ensure security, compliance, and strict validation.
Send us your membership enquiry
Complete the short form below and our Membership Committee will respond from info@cilgd.com with the official registration form, the supporting documents required for your grade, and the next steps. Submissions are routed as a membership and registration enquiry.