Applications open for the AfricaLics Visiting PhD Fellowships

Applications are open for the AfricaLics Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme 2026 — a unique opportunity for African PhD students conducting research in Innovation and Development (I&D) to gain advanced academic training, mentorship, and research exposure.

Application Deadline: November 15, 2025

Launched in 2015, the AfricaLics Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) has supported over 45 doctoral students from across Africa, equipping them with valuable research and academic skills. The 2026 cohort combines online sessions with a three-month study residency at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), South Africa, from September 1 to November 30, 2026. Online pre-programme activities begin in February 2026, followed by post-programme engagements in late 2026 and early 2027.

Programme Overview

The fellowship aims to strengthen the capacity of African scholars researching innovation and sustainable development. It helps participants enhance their dissertation quality, broaden their academic networks, and prepare for careers in research, policy, or academia.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to PhD students from African countries classified by the OECD/DAC as low or lower-middle-income.
• Applicants must be enrolled in a relevant PhD programme at an African university and preferably have completed their first year by December 2025.
• Research focus should relate to innovation and economic, social, or environmental sustainability.
• Female students and those from low-income regions are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must have secured basic PhD funding from other sources before applying.

Academic Backgrounds Considered
Candidates with experience in Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Geography, Development Studies, Science and Technology Policy, or related STEM disciplines are eligible, provided their research takes a social science perspective.

Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:

• A one-page statement (max 500 words) outlining their background, motivation, and expected outcomes.
• A 5-page summary of their PhD project and training plan.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Letters of support from their PhD supervisor and university administration.
• Copies of academic certificates (Bachelor’s and Master’s).
• A sample of written work (e.g., article or chapter).

Fellowship Benefits

• Return flight (economy class) to Johannesburg.
• Monthly stipend of about $600 to cover living expenses.
• Accommodation and workspace at the University of Johannesburg.
• Research mentorship and training support from the AfricaLics team.
• Coverage of joint course fees and mentorship sessions.
• Optional health insurance reimbursement (depending on funding availability).

Note: The fellowship only covers the participant’s expenses. Costs for dependents or personal travel are not included.

Selection and Notification

Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held on November 12 and 15, 2025, with final results released by December 2025 or January 2026. Successful fellows will sign a study agreement confirming their participation.

An information session will be held on October 24, 2025, via Zoom. Interested applicants should email [email protected] to register.

For complete details and to apply, visit the Official Webpage of the AfricaLics Visiting PhD Fellowships.