AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) 2027: Support for African PhD Students

AfricaLics is inviting African PhD students to apply for its 2027 PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP). This opportunity is designed to strengthen research capabilities and improve dissertation quality for students focused on innovation and development in Africa. The fellowship offers a chance to gain international exposure and connect with a vibrant research community.

Application Closing Date: October 2, 2026
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Programme Duration: Three months (study visit)
Stipend: Approximately $600 per month
Minimum Qualification: Enrolled as a PhD student at an African university

About the AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme

The AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) aims to support African PhD students working in the field of Innovation and Development. The programme focuses on enhancing students’ academic and research skills. It also seeks to improve the quality of their doctoral dissertations and prepare them for future careers.

This fellowship increases the mobility and exposure of selected PhD students to global knowledge and research on innovation and development. It is part of AfricaLics’ broader efforts to build a strong research community in Africa within this important and multidisciplinary area. The programme provides a structured environment for academic growth and networking.

About AfricaLics

AfricaLics is an organization dedicated to fostering research and development in Africa. It focuses on the critical areas of innovation and development, aiming to build a robust community of researchers across the continent. The organization supports initiatives that enhance academic capabilities and promote impactful research.

AfricaLics works to connect researchers with resources and opportunities that can advance their work. Their efforts contribute to the growth of knowledge and expertise in Africa, particularly in fields that drive economic and social progress.

Available PhD Fellowship Opportunities

The AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) is open to PhD students actively working on subjects relevant to innovation and development. Specific fields of study include, but are not limited to:

• Economics
• Sociology
• Political Science
• Science and Technology Policy
• Geography
• History
• Development Studies
• STEM subjects (from a social science perspective)
• Manufacturing (from a social science perspective)

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful candidates will benefit from a range of support designed to enhance their research experience. These benefits include:

• Coverage of return flight costs (economy class) from your nearest international airport to Johannesburg.
• Accommodation in Johannesburg during the fellowship period.
• Travel insurance that includes health insurance for minor ailments during the stay.
• A monthly stipend of approximately $600 to cover living expenses and local travel in Johannesburg.
• Coverage for participation in joint courses and mentorship fees.
• Funding for a short-course deemed important for PhD studies and not readily available in the student’s home country.
• Coverage for costs related to two face-to-face meetings between students, home supervisors, and mentors.

Programme Duration and Location

The study visit for the AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa. The duration of the fellowship is three months. This period allows for in-depth engagement with research resources and mentorship.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants for the AfricaLics PhD visiting fellowship programme should meet the following criteria:

• Be actively working on a subject relevant to innovation and development.
• Be enrolled as a PhD student at a university in Africa.
• Have preferably completed their first year of studies by December 2026.
• Hold a background in fields such as Economics, Sociology, Political Science, Science and Technology Policy, Geography, History, or Development Studies.
• Applicants from STEM or manufacturing fields are welcome if their work has a social science perspective.
• Possess adequate English literacy.

Competencies Required

The selection process is rigorous and considers several key competencies. Applicants should demonstrate:

• Clear focus and relevance of their research to Innovation and Development studies in Africa and the AfricaLics research agenda.
• A well-elaborated theoretical and conceptual framework rooted in innovation and development studies.
• Methodological clarity and rigor in their research approach.
• Clear justification for their research and specific research questions.
• An intention to address all research questions with adequate methods.
• Clear explanation of data sources and data collection methods.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for African PhD students who are deeply engaged in research related to innovation and development. It is suited for those who wish to enhance their academic and research skills through international exposure. The programme is beneficial for students aiming to improve their dissertation quality and prepare for academic, private sector, or government careers.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents with their application:

• A brief application of one page/500 words explaining your background, motivation, and expected outcomes.
• A brief outline of your current PhD project, including PhD training plans (max. 5 pages).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV), including PhD courses attended so far.
• A letter of support from your main PhD supervisor. This letter should confirm that the PhD student will have completed their upgrade/probation by the end of December 2025, or provide reasons for inclusion if this is not the case.
• A letter of support from the University Administration at your enrolled university.
• Copies of academic certificates (Bachelor and Master Certificates as a minimum).
• One writing sample (article or chapter) from your current PhD program.

Applicants are not required to submit a passport copy at this stage.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official AfricaLics portal.

Click here to apply for the AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) 2027

Applicants should ensure they have all required documents ready before starting the online application. Carefully read all instructions and requirements on the application portal. Submit your application before the closing date of October 2, 2026.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Applicants must meet all minimum requirements to be eligible.
• Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
• Certified documents may be requested from successful candidates.
• Ensure all personal details are accurate in your application.

Closing Date

The closing date for the AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) 2027 is October 2, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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