The AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship offers a unique collaborative research initiative for scholars based in Africa and Europe. This programme brings together ten selected scholars, paired into five Africa–Europe teams, to co-create solution-based research outputs aligned with the AU-EU Innovation Agenda. Participants engage in peer learning, science communication, and innovation, with the top three pairs invited to present at the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in Europe in June 2027.
The scholarship is hosted by the Africa-Europe Innovation Platform (AEIP), an initiative under the AU-EU Innovation Agenda’s Capacities for Science action. AEIP strengthens intercontinental academic partnerships, fosters knowledge transfer, and supports joint research projects. The Scholars Programme reflects AEIP’s commitment to building capacity among young researchers and addressing shared global challenges through practical, inclusive solutions.
AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship Benefits
- Joint research collaboration and peer learning
- Science communication support
- Opportunity to present at the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting (for top three pairs)
- Strengthened Africa–Europe academic partnerships
- Recognition for impactful and scalable solutions
- Co-creation of solution-based research outputs
- Practical innovations addressing shared challenges
- Enhanced capacity for inclusive and sustainable development
AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Aged between 25 and 35
- Based in Africa or Europe
- Enrolled in a PhD, Postdoctoral, or further studies programme at the time of application
- Have ongoing or completed research projects, theses, or dissertations aligned with the AU-EU Innovation Agenda Capacities for Science action
How to Apply for AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
- Submit your expression of interest through the official application portal
- Include a research abstract in your submission
- Ensure your application meets all eligibility criteria
- Applications must be received no later than 31 August 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship. These cover eligibility, benefits, timeline, and application steps for this Africa–Europe collaborative research opportunity.
Who is eligible to apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
Applicants must be aged 25–35, based in Africa or Europe, and enrolled in a PhD, postdoctoral, or further studies programme at the time of application. They must also have ongoing or completed research aligned with the AU-EU Innovation Agenda’s Capacities for Science action.
What are the benefits of the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
Selected scholars participate in joint research collaboration, peer learning, and science communication activities. The top three pairs receive sponsorship to present their work at the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in Europe in June 2027. All participants gain strengthened Africa–Europe academic partnerships and recognition for their innovations.
How many scholars are selected for the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
A total of 10 scholars are shortlisted—5 from Africa and 5 from Europe. They are paired into five Africa–Europe scholar pairs to collaborate on solution-based research projects. The top three pairs are later selected as finalists.
What is the application deadline for the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
The application deadline is 31 August 2026. Interested scholars must submit their expression of interest, including a research abstract, through the official online portal before this date.
How does the pairing and selection process work?
After the application deadline, ten scholars are selected based on research relevance, academic quality, innovation potential, and alignment with Africa–Europe cooperation priorities. They are then matched into five 1:1 Africa–Europe pairs according to shared or complementary research themes.
What is the duration of the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
The programme runs from July 2026 to June 2027 (12 months). Key phases include applications (July–August 2026), selection and pairing (September 2026), collaboration and research (September 2026–March 2027), evaluation (April 2027), and final presentations (June 2027).
Is the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship fully funded?
No, it is partially funded. The programme provides collaboration support and, for the top three finalist pairs, sponsorship to attend the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in Europe. It does not cover a full stipend or tuition; participating scholars must be enrolled in their own academic programmes.
What kind of research is expected from the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
Scholars must work on research aligned with the AU-EU Innovation Agenda’s Capacities for Science action. Outputs should be solution-oriented, addressing shared challenges relevant to both Africa and Europe. Proposed solutions are assessed on impact, feasibility, technology-driven approach, and strength of the model.
How can I apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
Submit your expression of interest via the official application link: https://www.research.net/r/AEIPSP26. You will need to provide a research abstract. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit by 31 August 2026.
Who organizes the AEIP Scholars Programme Scholarship?
The programme is organized by the Africa-Europe Innovation Platform (AEIP), which promotes joint research and innovation between the African Union and the European Union. It operates under the AU-EU Innovation Agenda and focuses on strengthening academic partnerships and knowledge exchange.
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