Apply for the 2027 African Scholarship Programme

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Application Deadline: 6 April 2026

The Nordic Africa Institute invites applications for the African Scholarship Programme 2027, a competitive residency designed for early-career researchers based in Africa. The programme supports scholars in the Social Sciences and Humanities with a fully funded research stay in Uppsala, Sweden.

Overview

The African Scholarship Programme aims to strengthen Africa-oriented research by providing a stimulating academic environment where scholars can refine their work, access specialized resources, and engage in international scholarly exchange.

The programme emphasizes:

• Contemporary Africa-focused research
• Alignment with the UN Agenda 2030 and the Institute’s five thematic impact areas
• Capacity building in African knowledge production
• Strengthening research collaboration between African and Nordic scholars
• Gender-focused research, including studies on the position of women in society

Programme benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Research Residency: 60–90 days in Uppsala, Sweden
• Academic Support: Mentorship from Institute researchers and access to specialized libraries
• Extended Library Access: Uppsala University Library and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Library
• Financial Support:
  • Return economy-class airfare
  • Accommodation in Uppsala
  • Daily subsistence allowance of 450 SEK
  • One-time installation grant of 2,500 SEK
• Workspace: Dedicated desk and computer access in a shared office

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be based in Africa and actively engaged in Africa-focused research
• Fall into one of the following categories:
  1. PhD students enrolled in Africa-based doctoral programmes, employed full-time at an African university or research centre, and without access to international PhD funding
  2. Postdoctoral researchers within four years of completing their PhD, employed at an African university or research centre
• Submit applications in English
• Not be currently or previously affiliated with the Nordic Africa Institute

Programme Duration

• Minimum stay: 60 days
• Maximum stay: 90 days
• Note: Visits cannot be scheduled during June–August or mid-December–mid-January due to reduced academic activity in Nordic institutions.

How to Apply

1. Prepare the following documents:
   • Updated CV
   • Detailed research proposal
   • Work plan specific to your stay
   • Signed letters confirming enrollment or employment
2. Submit your complete application online before 6 April 2026.
3. Ensure all documents are complete and written in English. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Originality and clarity of the research proposal
• Relevance to Africa-focused research
• Alignment with UN Agenda 2030 priorities
• Academic track record and research potential

Final Note:

The African Scholarship Programme offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging African scholars to advance impactful research within a globally respected academic setting. Beyond financial support, scholars gain mentorship, international exposure, and meaningful collaboration opportunities that strengthen Africa’s research ecosystem.

For full application details, visit the Nordic Africa Institute website. HERE