Fully Funded NAI African Scholarship Programme 2027
Organization: The Nordic Africa Institute (NAI)
Host country: Sweden
Degree level: Doctoral
Funding: Fully Funded
Deadline: April 6, 2026
Eligible countries: All African countries
Fields of study: Social Sciences, Humanities
The African Scholarship Programme, hosted by the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI), provides opportunities for early-career researchers based in Africa to work and develop their ongoing research in Uppsala, Sweden. The programme offers a 2 to 3-month residency to pursue research projects within the Social Sciences and Humanities, specifically focusing on contemporary Africa and themes aligned with the UN Agenda 2030 and the African Union Agenda 2063. The scholarship includes access to the Institute's extensive library, hosting by NAI researchers, networking opportunities, and a stimulating academic environment designed to build capacity in knowledge production about Africa.
Benefits
Return airfare in economy class
Accommodation in Uppsala, Sweden
Subsistence allowance of 450 SEK per day (approximately USD 50)
One-time installation grant of 2,500 SEK (approximately USD 280)
Access to a workspace in a shared office at the Institute, including computer access
Access to specialized libraries at NAI, Uppsala University, and SLU
Eligibility
Must be an early-career researcher based in Africa and engaged in Africa-oriented research
Must be conducting research within the disciplines of Social Sciences and Humanities with a focus on contemporary Africa
PhD student applicants must be enrolled in an Africa-based doctoral program, hold full-time employment at an African-based university or research centre, and not be funded by an international scholarship
Postdoctoral applicants must be within four years of completing their PhD and hold employment at an African university or research centre
Requirements
Submission of an updated CV including publications or links if available
Submission of a 5-page Research Proposal including an introduction
Submission of a 1-page Work Plan outlining objectives, activities, and expected results during the stay
Submission of a signed Letter of Support from a Supervisor and/or Head of Department
Ensure proposals are written entirely in your own words, as using AI to develop text may place you at a disadvantage during the assessment process
Required Documents
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Research Proposal (maximum 5 pages)
Work Plan (maximum 1 page)
Signed Letter of Support from Supervisor or Head of Department
Programs of Study
Research Residency for PhD Students
Research Residency for Postdoctoral Researchers
Application Process
Visit the Nordic Africa Institute application portal to access the African Scholarship Programme details
Prepare your updated CV, Research Proposal, Work Plan, and signed Letter of Support
Complete the online application form and upload all required documents accurately
Submit your application strictly before the final deadline of 6 April 2026
Ensure your application is entirely complete, as incomplete submissions will not be considered by the selection committee
How to Apply
NAI reads proposals carefully and it is important to learn about your research in your own words and framing, so avoid using AI tools to draft your application
Make sure your research strictly falls under Social Sciences and Humanities and focuses heavily on contemporary Africa
Selection Process
Applications are rigorously assessed by a dedicated selection committee comprising staff members with diverse backgrounds and expertise
The evaluation follows strict ethical guidelines, ensuring transparency of the process, equity, fairness, and respect for all candidates