The African Scholarship Programme is designed to strengthen research capacity in Africa by offering early-career scholars the opportunity to develop their ongoing research at the Nordic Africa Institute.
Selected scholars will gain:
- Access to the Institute’s specialised library on contemporary Africa
- Academic hosting and mentorship
- Networking opportunities with Nordic and African research communities
- Access to university libraries in Uppsala
The programme aligns with the principles of the United Nations Agenda 2030, supporting research that contributes to sustainable development goals and knowledge production on Africa.
Apply For African Scholarship Programme 2027 (Fully Funded Research Stay in Sweden)
Application Deadline
6 April 2026
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to early-career researchers based in Africa under two categories:
PhD Students
- Enrolled in an Africa-based doctoral programme
- Full-time employment at an African university or research centre
- Must not have access to international PhD scholarship funding
Postdoctoral Researchers
- Within four years of completing a PhD
- Currently employed at an African university or research centre
Individuals currently or previously employed by the Nordic Africa Institute are not eligible.
Financial Benefits
The scholarship is fully funded and includes:
- Return airfare (economy class)
- Accommodation
- 450 SEK (approximately 50 USD) per day subsistence allowance
- Installation grant of 2,500 SEK (approximately 280 USD)
- Workspace with desk computer
The subsistence allowance applies only for days spent in Uppsala.
Duration of Stay
- Minimum stay: 60 days
- Maximum stay: 90 days (approximately three months)
Visits cannot take place between:
- June and August
- Mid-December and mid-January
These periods coincide with reduced academic activity in Nordic institutions.
Eligible Research Areas
Applicants must be engaged in research within:
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Contemporary Africa-focused studies
Research projects should align with the core principles of the United Nations Agenda 2030 and be relevant to the Institute’s five impact areas.
Research topics addressing gender issues and the position of women in society are especially encouraged.
The Institute aims to ensure fair gender balance and broad geographic representation among selected scholars.
Required Application Documents
Applications must be submitted in English and include the following:
Updated CV
Include a list of publications, with links where available.
Research Proposal (5 Pages)
The proposal should include:
- Introduction
- Research aims and scope
- Literature review
- Research design and methodology
- Expected contribution to knowledge
- Reference list
Work Plan (1 Page)
Clearly outline objectives and expected outcomes during the stay at the Institute.
Signed Letter of Support
- PhD students: From Supervisor or Head of Department confirming enrollment and employment
- Postdoctoral researchers: From Head of Department confirming current employment
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The African Scholarship Programme 2027:
- Strengthens research capacity in African institutions
- Promotes Africa–Nordic academic collaboration
- Enhances scholarly visibility and international networking
- Supports evidence-based research on contemporary African issues
For early-career African academics seeking international exposure, research mobility, and institutional collaboration, this programme offers a significant academic advancement opportunity.
Apply For African Scholarship Programme 2027 (Fully Funded Research Stay in Sweden)
Programme Location
Villavägen 6, Uppsala, Sweden
Hosted at the Nordic Africa Institute
Contact Information
Email: nai@nai.uu.se
Phone: +46 18 471 52 00
