Pursuing a PhD is a transformative endeavor that equips scholars with the skills to drive innovation, policy, and sustainable development.
For African students, however, financial barriers often hinder access to advanced research training, exacerbating brain drain and limiting contributions to continent-specific challenges like climate change, health disparities, and technological advancement.
In a region where only about 1% of the global PhD output originates from Africa, targeted funding is essential to build research capacity and foster homegrown expertise.
Fortunately, several prestigious grants and fellowships prioritize African PhD candidates, offering comprehensive support for tuition, stipends, research costs, and professional development.
These opportunities not only cover financial needs but also emphasize leadership, mentorship, and impact on African development.
This article highlights six key funding sources, providing details on eligibility, benefits, and application processes to guide aspiring scholars.
The Value of PhD Funding for African Researchers
PhD grants for African students go beyond mere financial aid; they invest in Africa’s intellectual future. With Africa’s population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, the demand for skilled researchers in STEM, social sciences, and interdisciplinary fields is urgent.
Funded PhDs enable students to tackle pressing issues such as food security, renewable energy, and public health equity.
Programs often include international collaborations, mentorship from global experts, and networking opportunities, enhancing employability and research output.
For instance, many grants require scholars to commit to returning to Africa post-study, ensuring knowledge transfer and institutional strengthening. Women, who represent less than 30% of African PhD graduates, are particularly prioritized to address gender imbalances in academia. By securing such funding, African students can contribute to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, promoting inclusive growth and self-reliance.
PhD research grants for African students
1. Mawazo Fellowship Programme
The Mawazo Fellowship, offered by the Mawazo Institute, is a 15-month non-residential program supporting African women PhD students at accredited universities across Africa.
It builds a network of female experts to influence policy and public discourse through evidence-based research on development issues. Fellows receive virtual training via the Mawazo Learning Exchange (MLEx) platform, mentorship from professionals, access to a Fellows Fund for research (up to funding for activities like conferences and collaborations), and wellness support.
Eligibility: African women enrolled in a PhD at an African university, having completed coursework and passed proposal defence. Research must relate to African development and demonstrate a “Big Idea” for societal impact. No age limit, but under 35 encouraged; English proficiency required.
Benefits: Professional development, mentorship, research funding, and visibility through Mawazo Voices.
Application: Applications for the last cohort of the Mawazo fellowship closed in November 2024. Include research summary, CV, transcripts, and supervisor letter.
2. OWSD PhD Fellowships
The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) PhD Fellowships, funded by SIDA and hosted by TWAS, empower women from science- and technology-lagging countries (STLCs) to pursue PhD research in STEM at host institutes in another Global South developing country.
It promotes gender equity and scientific leadership, with options for full-time (up to 4 years) or sandwich models (up to 20 months abroad).
Eligibility: Women from 47 LDCs and 19 low-income STLCs (including most African nations like Angola, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa). Hold an MSc in natural/engineering/IT sciences; intend to return home post-fellowship. Not for social sciences/humanities.
Benefits: Monthly stipend, travel, conference allowance, visa/medical insurance, and tuition (host contributes). Up to 4 years funding.
Application: Online via OWSD portal; next call expected March 2025 (previous deadline April 2024). Requires research proposal, transcripts, acceptance letter from host, and references.
3. PASET Regional Scholarship and Innovation Fund (RSIF)
The PASET RSIF, managed by icipe and funded by African governments, World Bank, and Korea, supports PhD training in applied sciences, engineering, and technology (ASET) at African Host Universities (AHUs).
It addresses skills gaps through 3-4 year programs with 6-12 month sandwich placements at international partners, focusing on ICT, food security, energy, minerals, and climate change.
Eligibility: Sub-Saharan African citizens under 35 with a relevant master’s; meet AHU admission; not holding another PhD scholarship. Priority for women and young faculty.
Benefits: Full tuition/research costs, monthly stipend, travel, insurance, family support, and post-PhD research grants.
Application: Online via icipe portal; sixth call closed September 2024, with the next expected in 2025. Requires transcripts, proposal aligned to themes, and references.
4. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships
DAAD’s In-Country/In-Region Scholarships fund Master’s/PhD studies at Sub-Saharan African universities in development-related fields, building regional capacity. Options include in-country (home institution) or in-region (another African country) study, with short-term Germany research stays.
Eligibility: Sub-Saharan Africans with bachelor’s (for Master’s) or Master’s (for PhD); under 6 years since last degree; aim for academic/public sector careers. Women and disadvantaged groups prioritized.
Benefits: Monthly stipend (€992 Master’s/€1,300 PhD), tuition, insurance, travel; up to 2-3 years. Additional Germany visits.
Application: Varies by host (e.g., November 21, 2024 for some West/Central Africa programs); next cycle February-April 2025. Apply via host portals with transcripts, proposal, and references.
5. African Academy of Sciences (AAS) Funding Opportunities
The AAS offers grants like the ARISE-PP for early-career African PIs (post-PhD returnees) and fellowships recognizing excellence. While not exclusively PhD-focused, it supports PhD-level research in sciences via seed grants (up to €500,000) for projects in lagging African countries, emphasizing innovation and policy impact.
Eligibility: African nationals with PhD (within 5 years, obtained abroad); 40 or under; based in eligible African institution. For ARISE: 2-7 years post-PhD experience.
Benefits: Up to €500,000 for 5 years; equipment, fieldwork, conferences. Builds research independence.
Application: Varies; ARISE-PP expressions closed July 2021, but monitor for 2025 calls. Nominations for fellowships by May annually.
6. African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) PhD Scholarships
AIMS provides PhD scholarships in mathematical sciences, often via partnerships like DAAD or internal funds, at its African centres (South Africa, Ghana, etc.). Programs emphasize interdisciplinary research in AI, climate modelling, and data science, with global collaborations.
Eligibility: African nationals with master’s in math/science; strong aptitude; under 35 preferred. Women encouraged.
Benefits: Full tuition, stipend, accommodation, travel; 3-4 years, including sandwich placements.
Application: Via AIMS portals; next cycle expected early 2025 (previous March 2024). Requires transcripts, proposal, and math test.
Strategies for Successful Applications
Securing PhD funding demands strategic preparation. Start 6-12 months early: Research alignments with grant themes (e.g., SDG-related for DAAD).
Craft compelling proposals highlighting African impact and innovation. Secure strong references from mentors. Demonstrate leadership via community service.
For women, leverage gender-focused programs like OWSD. Track deadlines via portals and alerts. Multiple applications are advisable, but tailor each.
Conclusion
PhD research grants like the Mawazo Fellowship, OWSD, PASET RSIF, DAAD In-Country/In-Region, AAS opportunities, and AIMS scholarships are vital lifelines for African students, bridging financial gaps and amplifying voices in global academia.
By investing in these programs, funders are nurturing a cadre of leaders who will propel Africa’s progress.
Aspiring scholars: Seize these chances, align your vision with continental needs, and apply diligently. The future of African innovation awaits your contributions.
