Applications open for the AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship

The African Development Bank (AfDB), through its landmark 2024–2033 Ten-Year Strategy, has partnered with Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) to launch the AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship, one of the most ambitious scholarship initiatives ever created for Africa’s fisheries and blue economy professionals. This fully funded program aims to produce a new generation of African scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders who will spearhead the sustainable transformation of the continent’s vast aquatic and marine resources.

Open to talented nationals from all 54 AfDB Regional Member Countries, the scholarship supports both short-term Summer School immersion programs and long-term Master’s and PhD degrees in aquaculture, marine science, ocean governance, and related fields. Successful scholars will train at one of the world’s top institutions for ocean studies while gaining first-hand exposure to China’s world-leading modern aquaculture systems.

About Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU)

Founded in 1912, Shanghai Ocean University is China’s flagship “double first-class” university dedicated exclusively to ocean, fisheries, and aquatic sciences. Located on a stunning 500-acre waterfront campus in Shanghai’s Lingang New Area, SHOU is globally ranked among the top institutions for marine biology, aquaculture engineering, food science, and fisheries economics.

Home to more than 13,000 students and 1,200 faculty members—including numerous national academicians—SHOU operates cutting-edge national key laboratories, a fleet of research vessels, and large-scale experimental aquaculture bases. The university maintains active partnerships with over 40 leading institutions and international organizations worldwide, including FAO, WorldFish, and several African universities. Graduates regularly secure leadership roles in government, international organizations, and the global seafood industry, making SHOU the perfect launchpad for Africa’s next wave of blue-economy champions.

Program Types and Learning Experience

1. Summer School (2–4 weeks) Intensive short courses combining classroom teaching, laboratory work, field visits to China’s largest fish farms and hatcheries, and cultural immersion activities.
2. Master’s Programs (2–3 years) English-taught degrees in Aquaculture, Marine Science, Fisheries Management, Food Science & Engineering, and related disciplines.
3. PhD Programs (4 years) Advanced research degrees focused on frontier topics such as climate-resilient aquaculture, deep-sea biotechnology, and sustainable ocean governance.

All programs blend lectures by world-renowned professors, hands-on lab training, industry site visits, group research projects, and cross-cultural collaboration—ensuring graduates return home with both theoretical mastery and practical, field-tested skills.

What the Scholarship Covers

For every successful applicant, the AfDB–SHOU scholarship fully funds:

• 100% tuition and registration fees
• On-campus accommodation (modern graduate dormitories)
• Three meals per day in university canteens
• Monthly living stipend
• Comprehensive medical insurance
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and libraries

Note: Scholars are responsible for their own round-trip airfare and Chinese visa fees.

Eligibility Requirements

Master’s Candidates

• Citizen of an AfDB Regional Member Country
• Bachelor’s degree in any discipline (preference given to science, agriculture, environment, economics, or related fields)
• Strong interest or experience in fisheries, aquaculture, or blue economy
• Under 35 years old
• Minimum GPA 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent)
• English proficiency: IELTS ≥ 6.0 or TOEFL iBT ≥ 80 (or proof of English-medium instruction)

PhD Candidates

• Citizen of an AfDB Regional Member Country
• Master’s degree in Marine Science, Aquaculture, Environmental Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or closely related field
• At least one peer-reviewed publication
• Demonstrated research experience and strong analytical skills
• Under 40 years old (exceptions possible for exceptional profiles)
• Same English proficiency requirement as Master’s

Expected Outcomes

By graduation, scholars will possess:

• Deep knowledge of China’s highly efficient, technology-driven aquaculture models
• Practical expertise in hatchery management, disease control, feed formulation, and environmental monitoring
• Enhanced leadership, communication, and multicultural collaboration skills
• A ready professional network spanning Africa, China, and the global marine-science community

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online by 10 December 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Successful applicants are expected to comply fully with SHOU regulations and maintain exemplary academic and behavioral standards throughout their stay.

This is a rare, career-defining opportunity to study at the global epicenter of aquaculture innovation—completely free of charge. If you are ready to become one of Africa’s pioneering blue-economy leaders, visit the official AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship webpage today and submit your application before the deadline. The future of Africa’s oceans starts with you.