SHE-CREEDS Scholarships: A Gateway to Advanced Study in Africa
African students looking to pursue Master’s or PhD degrees in fields critical to the continent’s future have a significant opportunity with the SHE-CREEDS Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scholarships for 2026. This program, co-funded by the European Union, aims to strengthen higher education across Africa by fostering academic mobility and equipping students with skills in climate-responsive agriculture, energy-efficient technologies, and digital innovation. The SHE-CREEDS project is a four-year initiative designed to build capacity within African universities and prepare a new generation of leaders to tackle pressing environmental and developmental challenges.
Understanding the SHE-CREEDS Project
SHE-CREEDS, which stands for Strengthening Higher Education for Climate-Responsive Agriculture, Energy-Efficient Technologies, and Digital Innovation in Sub-Saharan Africa, is a key part of the Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme. Managed by the European Education and Culture Executive Agency, this project runs from 2025 to 2028. Its core mission is to improve how African higher education institutions address climate change and sustainable development. This is achieved through advanced postgraduate education, research, innovation, and by encouraging students and researchers to study in different African countries. The program focuses on integrating climate change awareness into academic curricula, enhancing training in sustainable farming, advancing energy efficiency, and promoting digital advancements in education.
The Importance of the SHE-CREEDS Scholarship
Africa faces considerable challenges, including the impacts of climate change, the need for food security, access to clean energy, and the rapid pace of digital transformation. To effectively address these issues, the continent requires highly skilled professionals, researchers, and innovators. The SHE-CREEDS scholarship program directly meets this need by supporting advanced studies and facilitating movement between African universities. Scholars benefit from diverse academic settings, international connections, advanced research tools, and the chance to collaborate across borders. This initiative also aligns with global development goals and supports long-term capacity building within African higher education systems.
Available Scholarship Opportunities
The SHE-CREEDS program offers a range of Master’s and PhD scholarships across various specialized fields. These opportunities are hosted by a consortium of leading universities in Eastern, Central, Southern, and Western Africa, with technical support from Ghent University in Belgium.
PhD Scholarships
There are six PhD scholarship opportunities available, focusing on areas such as sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, environmental science, and sustainable energy. Specific PhD programs include:
- PhD in Sustainable Agriculture at NM-AIST, Tanzania, focusing on Agro-Ecological Farming Systems and Sustainable Land Management. This can be a 6-month credit-seeking mobility.
- PhD in Natural Resources Management at Jimma University, Ethiopia, specializing in Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, with a focus on smart irrigation and water-energy-food nexus technologies. This is a degree-seeking opportunity.
- PhD in Environmental Science – Natural Resource Management at Université Officielle de Bukavu (UOB), Democratic Republic of Congo, covering topics like agro-industrial waste valorization and sustainable mining for land rehabilitation. This is also a degree-seeking program.
- PhD in Climate Change and Biodiversity at Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny (UFHB), Côte d’Ivoire, with a focus on climate-smart cocoa landscapes. This is a degree-seeking opportunity.
- PhD in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering at NM-AIST, Tanzania, concentrating on smart irrigation, water-energy-food nexus, and precision agriculture technologies. This can be a 6-month credit-seeking mobility.
- PhD in Sustainable Energy Science and Engineering at NM-AIST, Tanzania, focusing on renewable energy systems, green manufacturing, and solar-driven technologies. This is a degree-seeking program.
- PhD in Integrated Water Resources Management at the University of Zambia (UNZA), Zambia, covering energy efficiency in transport, water infrastructure, and urban systems. This is a degree-seeking opportunity.
MSc Scholarships
Master’s scholarship opportunities are also available in several specialized fields, including sustainable agriculture, agronomy, natural resource management, climate change, biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, geology, and sustainable energy science. Specific MSc programs include:
- MSc in Sustainable Agriculture at NM-AIST, Tanzania, focusing on Agro-Ecological Farming Systems and Sustainable Land Management.
- MSc in Agronomy at Jimma University, Ethiopia, with a focus on Agrifood Value Chain Development and Rural SME Empowerment.
- MSc in Natural Resource Management at Université Officielle de Bukavu (DRC), covering Agro-Industrial Waste Valorization, Biodiversity-Positive Farming, and Sustainable Mining for Land Rehabilitation.
- MSc in Climate Change, Biodiversity and Sustainable Agriculture at Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Côte d’Ivoire, focusing on Agro-Ecological Farming Systems and Sustainable Land Management.
- Master of Science in Geology at the University of Zambia, with a focus on Mineral Systems, Hydrogeology, and Geological Hazard Assessment.
- MSc in Sustainable Energy Science and Engineering at NM-AIST, Tanzania, focusing on Renewable Energy Systems, Green Manufacturing, and Solar-Driven Technologies.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected candidates will receive comprehensive support throughout their academic journey. This includes financial assistance and valuable academic and professional development opportunities.
Financial Benefits
- MSc Scholars will receive a monthly stipend of up to EUR 890 for up to 24 months for degree-seeking programs.
- PhD Scholars will receive a monthly stipend of up to EUR 1,230 for up to 36 months for degree-seeking programs, and up to 6 months for credit-seeking mobility.
Additional Benefits
Beyond financial support, scholars gain access to international academic mobility, opportunities to study at leading African universities, and engage in research collaborations. The program also offers exposure to multicultural academic environments, professional networking, and enhanced employability. Scholars will contribute to research addressing real African development challenges, supporting climate resilience, renewable energy, and digital innovation.
Partner Universities and Institutions
The SHE-CREEDS consortium is made up of respected institutions from across Africa and Europe, ensuring a high standard of education and research.
Consortium Members
- Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), Tanzania (Lead Coordinator)
- Jimma University (JU), Ethiopia
- Université Officielle de Bukavu (UOB), Democratic Republic of Congo
- Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny (UFHB), Côte d’Ivoire
- University of Zambia (UNZA), Zambia
- Ghent University (UGent), Belgium (EU Technical Partner)
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana (Associated Partner)
Cross-Language Mobility Advantage
To promote linguistic diversity and regional integration, the program offers an advantage to applicants who cross language barriers. Applicants from Anglophone countries applying to Francophone institutions (UOB or UFHB) will receive a selection advantage. Similarly, applicants from Francophone countries applying to Anglophone institutions may also benefit. Language support services will be available to assist scholars upon arrival at their host institutions.
Important Mobility Requirement
A key requirement for the SHE-CREEDS scholarship is that applicants cannot study in their country of nationality or residence. This rule is in place to ensure the program’s goal of promoting cross-border academic mobility is met. Therefore, the chosen host institution must be located in a different African country from the applicant’s nationality and also outside their country of residence. Applications that propose studying within the applicant’s home country will be disqualified.
Gender Inclusion and Support
SHE-CREEDS is committed to promoting gender equality within its programs. The project aims for at least 50% female scholarship recipients and provides specific support mechanisms. These include a 5-point bonus during the selection process, dedicated mentorship programs, and female peer-support networks. Additionally, degree-seeking PhD scholars may receive family visit allowances, and flexible arrangements are available for nursing mothers.
Priority Groups
The scholarship program gives priority consideration to several groups to ensure broad access and support for those who may face additional barriers. These include applicants from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, those from conflict-affected and fragile regions, and underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Cross-language applicants and individuals with disabilities requiring accessible support are also given priority.
Application Process
Prospective applicants should follow a clear process to submit their applications.
Steps to Apply
- Review Programs: Identify suitable MSc or PhD programs offered within the SHE-CREEDS consortium.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required supporting documents, ensuring they are in PDF format.
- Complete Form: Fill out the official online application form accurately.
- Submit Application: Submit the completed application before the specified deadline.
- Interview: If shortlisted, participate in a virtual interview.
- Await Results: Final selection results are expected by July 2026.
Required Application Documents
For All Applicants:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter
- Valid Passport
- National Identity Card
- Academic Certificates
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of Language Proficiency (if required)
- Signed Declaration confirming no concurrent EU scholarship and no previous MOBAF scholarship.
Additional Documents for MSc Applicants:
- Two Academic or Professional Reference Letters
- Statement of Purpose
Additional Documents for PhD Applicants:
- Research Concept Note (1,000-1,500 words)
- Two Academic or Professional Reference Letters
- Research Publications, Reports, or Conference Papers (if available)
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting all applications is 28 June 2026 at 23:59 GMT. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
For detailed information and to access the application portal, applicants should review the official call for applications and visit the official SHE-CREEDS website. The SHE-CREEDS scholarship program represents a significant opportunity for African students to pursue advanced studies and contribute to the continent’s development in critical areas.
