Scholarship Opportunities
AEIP SCHOLARS PROGRAMME 2026–2027
The Africa-Europe Innovation Partnership (AEIP) Scholars Programme is a flagship collaborative initiative designed to connect early-career researchers across both continents. By fostering cross-border research, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and transforming academic knowledge into real-world solutions, the programme addresses critical global challenges facing both Africa and Europe.
Programme Benefits
Collaborative Pairing: 10 scholars selected and paired into 5 intercontinental research dyads.
Research Support: Opportunities for joint research, peer learning, science communication, and knowledge exchange.
Fully Funded Travel: The top 3 finalist pairs will receive full sponsorship to present their outputs live at the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in Europe (June 2027).
Innovation Focus: Direct guidance to translate thesis/postdoc research into actionable, solution-oriented models.
Eligibility Criteria
Age: 25–35 years old at the time of application.
Location: Must be actively based in an African or European country.
Academic Status: Currently enrolled in a PhD, Postdoc, or advanced study programme.
Research Alignment: Ongoing or completed research project, thesis, or dissertation aligned with the AU-EU Innovation Agenda Capacities for Science action.
Focus of Collaborative Research
Matched pairs will collaborate on a solution-based study that addresses mutual challenges in Africa and Europe. Research proposals and generated innovations will be evaluated on:
Demographic Impact: Focus on empowering women and youth.
Institutional Value: Capacity to strengthen people, communities, and local institutions.
Model Quality: Solution strength, technological integration, feasibility, and practical realism.
Programme Timeline & Application Requirements
Phase Timeline Key Activity / Milestone
Applications July 1 – August 31, 2026 Submission of research abstract and application
Selection September 2026 Review, candidate selection, and pairing
Research Phase Sept 2026 – March 2027 Joint research and solution development
Evaluation Early April 2027 Assessment of research outputs & selection of top 3 finalist pairs
Final Showcase June 2027 Finalist presentation at the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in Europe
How to Apply
Deadline: August 31, 2026
Enquiries: Contact info@africaeuropeinnovation.net using the subject line “Scholars Programme”.
