About the Programme
The African Scholarship Programme is designed to provide opportunities for early career researchers based in Africa to develop their research at the Nordic Africa Institute. This scholarship offers access to the Institute’s library, collaboration with the Institute’s researchers, networking opportunities, and other resources that create a stimulating research environment. The goal of the programme is to build capacity in the production of knowledge about Africa and to foster relationships between African and Nordic research communities.
Programme Duration
The stay lasts approximately 90 days (3 months). Please note that most academic institutions in the Nordic countries, including the Nordic Africa Institute, operate at a reduced capacity during the periods 15 June–15 August and 15 December–15 January. Therefore, these periods cannot be selected for visits.
Financial Support and Benefits
The scholarship includes:
- Return air-fare (economy class)
- Accommodation
- A subsistence allowance of 400 SEK (approx. 40 USD) per day
- An installation grant of 2,500 SEK (approx. 250 USD)
- Access to a workspace, including a desk computer, in a shared office at the Institute
The subsistence allowance is provided only for the days spent in Uppsala. Scholars also have access to the Institute’s specialized library on contemporary Africa, as well as the Uppsala University Library and the Library of the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship programme is open to early career researchers based in Africa who are engaged in Africa-oriented research within the disciplines of Social Sciences and Humanities, with a focus on contemporary Africa. The research should align with the core principles of the UN Agenda 2030.
Eligible candidates fall into two categories:
- Staff full-time employed by an African university or research center, enrolled in a doctoral programme in Africa, and without access to an international scholarship.
- Postdoctoral researchers who have completed their PhD within the last 4 years.
The Institute aims for a fair distribution of scholarships, considering gender and geographic focus, and particularly welcomes research on gender issues and the role of women in society.
How to Apply
Applicants should apply online and upload the following documents:
- Up-to-date CV, including a list of publications (include links if available online)
- Outline of the research project (5 pages) detailing the research proposal
- Work plan (1 page) specific to the time spent at the Institute, including research objectives and expected outcomes
- Reference: A signed letter of support from the applicant’s Head of Department or another senior scholar in the same field, confirming current workplace/affiliation and field of research
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Those currently or previously affiliated with the Nordic Africa Institute are not eligible for scholarships. The application must be in English. In the event that the Scholarship Programme for 2026 does not receive full funding, applicants will be informed immediately.
Deadline for Applying: 31 March 2025
Open for applications: Apply here
