2026 NAI Scholarship Programme (Nordic Africa Institute)

Suitably qualified students passionate about advancing their research and contributing to knowledge about Africa have an exciting opportunity through the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) Scholarship Programme. The distinguished program allows research personnel to access funding support combined with academic resources which stimulates continuous research activities at the institute. Scholarship funds cover travel costs settling expenses and living requirements and grant access to workspace equipment and labor services.

The scholarship program admits both Master’s and PhD researchers from Africa for research advancement at its strongly supportive institutional network. At the Institute scholars have complete library and research access which allows them to make their work stronger through engagement with eminent academics in their respective fields.

The Nordic Africa Institute operates its research center for African studies from Uppsala which serves as one of the leading institutions for African studies. Since its establishment in 1962, the institute has continued to build essential research ties between African scholars and Nordic professionals. Through its NAI Scholarship Programme, the organization has built many scholars who received the necessary skills and professional networks to conduct meaningful research and generate beneficial changes in their local areas.

Fellowship Summary:

Fellowship Sponsor(s): Nordic Africa Institute

Host Institution(s): Nordic Africa Institute

Fellowship Worth: Funded

Number of Awards: Several

Study Level: Masters, PhD

Nationality: All Countries

Requirements and eligibility criteria:

Open to full-time staff at African universities or research centers enrolled in a PhD program in Africa and do not have international scholarships.
Postdoctoral researchers who completed their PhD within the last five years.
Applicants must be African nationals.
Must be affiliated with universities or research centers in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Iceland.

Benefits of the Scholarship

Round-trip economy airfare.
Accommodation and a daily subsistence allowance of 400 SEK (around 40 USD).
One-time installation grant of 2,500 SEK (around 250 USD).
Personal workspace with a computer in a shared office at the institute.
Access the Nordic Africa Institute’s specialized library on contemporary Africa and social sciences.
Additional access to Uppsala University Library and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Library.
Opportunity to present research at the institute and visit other Nordic research institutions.

Application Procedures (How to apply);

To apply, submit the following documents:

CV: Must be up-to-date and include a list of publications (with links if available online).
Research Project Outline (5 pages): A well-detailed research proposal.
Work Plan (1 page): A clear plan outlining research objectives and expected outcomes during the stay at the institute.
Reference Letter: A signed letter from the applicant’s Head of Department or a senior scholar in the same field, confirming their current workplace, affiliation, and research focus.

Application Deadline: March 31, 2025

For more information visit the official website

2026 NAI Scholarship Programme (Nordic Africa Institute)