Introduction
The AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme 2026 is one of the most valuable research-mobility opportunities available to African scholars pursuing doctoral studies in development, innovation, technology, policy, or related social sciences. This program provides selected PhD candidates with the chance to spend several months at a leading host institution, advance their research through academic mentorship, and immerse themselves in international scholarly environments. Beyond academic growth, fellows gain exposure to workshops, seminars, and conferences, strengthening both their research impact and global networks.
For African students who often face significant barriers to accessing international academic institutions and research funding, AfricaLics offers a rare and meaningful pathway. With full financial support, including flights, the fellowship plays a crucial role in developing Africa’s next generation of research leaders in innovation and development studies.
About the Fellowship
AfricaLics (African Network for Economics of Learning, Innovation and Competence Building Systems) is a well-established research community dedicated to strengthening innovation and development research across the continent. The Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) is its flagship initiative, created to broaden the capabilities, networks, and knowledge base of African PhD researchers.
Each fellowship cohort consists of competitively selected doctoral students from various African countries. Fellows spend a research stay usually several weeks to a few months at a designated host institution. The 2026 cohort will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, where fellows join academic departments, research groups, and mentorship sessions with experienced scholars.
During the visit, fellows participate in academic training, methodological workshops, structured dissertation discussions, and collaborative learning activities. They also engage with students and staff, contributing to a vibrant research community focused on development, policy transformation, innovation systems, and social change.
Academic Purpose & Program Structure
The AfricaLics VFP is designed to enhance the quality, originality, and global visibility of doctoral research. Fellows work on improving the conceptual, methodological, and empirical components of their dissertation while receiving feedback from senior supervisors.
Key elements of the program include:
1. Research Mentorship
Each fellow is paired with experienced academic supervisors who guide them through refining their thesis, improving research design, strengthening theoretical frameworks, and sharpening their academic writing.
2. Academic Coursework & Seminars
Fellows participate in joint courses, academic discussions, and research seminars. These sessions focus on innovation theories, development policy, research methodologies, and emerging global challenges relevant to Africa.
3. Networking & Collaboration
The program brings together PhD students from different African countries, creating space for peer learning and collaboration. Fellows also connect with senior researchers, policy specialists, and development practitioners.
4. Conference Participation
Participants may attend workshops, conferences, or academic events organized during the fellowship period. These platforms support the dissemination of research findings and foster exposure to international audiences.
5. Research Productivity
Fellows are expected to develop publishable work, conference papers, or substantial dissertation chapters during or after their stay. This helps build academic credibility and visibility in global research spaces.
Financial Support
One of the strongest features of the AfricaLics VFP is its generous funding package. The program ensures that financial limitations do not prevent capable African scholars from participating. Funding includes:
- Return flight (economy class) from the fellow’s home country to Johannesburg.
- Monthly stipend of approximately USD 600 to cover accommodation, meals, and basic living expenses during the research stay.
- Research support funding, which includes costs for supervision, courses, workshops, and institutional resources.
- Participation in academic activities, including conferences or seminars organized by AfricaLics or the host institution.
This financial support allows fellows to focus entirely on academic and professional development without financial strain.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 2026 fellowship, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a PhD program at an African university.
- Be working on a dissertation related to innovation studies, development, policy, economics, sustainability, technology, or similar fields.
- Demonstrate strong academic writing, research capability, and motivation for international learning.
- Show commitment to contributing to African development through research and policy engagement.
The fellowship welcomes students from diverse social, economic, and regional backgrounds. Women researchers and those from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Why This Opportunity Matters
AfricaLics plays a transformative role in strengthening Africa’s research ecosystem. Many African scholars lack opportunities for international research mobility, access to advanced supervision, or global exposure. This fellowship directly addresses those gaps by providing structured academic development, high-level mentorship, and a supportive research environment.
For doctoral students who aspire to careers in academia, policy research, innovation institutions, or international development organizations, the AfricaLics Visiting Fellowship is a powerful stepping stone. It enhances research quality, opens new career pathways, and builds long-term professional networks across Africa and beyond.
How to Apply
Applications for the AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme 2026 are now open.
Ensure your documents, research proposal, CV, supervisor recommendation, and statement of purpose—are well prepared before submission.