The LaSoMa Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded PhD program in Engineering for talented African candidates, funded by the European Commission. It focuses on laser manufacturing technologies for solar systems, with emphasis on zero-defect, zero-waste production and climate change mitigation. Mobility duration ranges from 6 to 36 months, hosted in an African country different from the scholar’s nationality.
The LaSoMa (Laser and Solar Manufacturing for Africa) Scholarship Programme is co-funded by the European Union and implemented by a consortium of partner universities including Pentecost University in Ghana, JKUAT in Kenya, and FUT Minna and FU Lokoja in Nigeria. The program aims to build research capacity in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy across Africa.
LaSoMa Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Medical insurance coverage
- Research consumables and equipment access
- Travel support for research visits and conferences
- Joint academic + industry supervision
- Publication support and conference funding
- Participation in LaSoMa Preparatory Graduate School (soft skills, technical training, practicals)
LaSoMa Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Be nationals and residents of an African country
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Engineering or related field
- Demonstrate English proficiency
- Align research interests with LaSoMa focus areas (laser manufacturing, solar systems, climate change)
- Not have previously received an Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme 2022–2027 scholarship
- Commit not to benefit from another EU-funded scholarship (e.g., Erasmus+)
- Women (30%) and applicants with special needs (10%) are strongly encouraged
Required Documents
- Certified passport biodata page.
- Certified Bachelor’s & Master’s degree certificates and transcripts.
- CV (max 4 pages).
- 500-word motivation letter.
- Elevator pitch video (max 2 minutes).
- LaSoMa PhD research proposal (template provided).
- Two recommendation letters (dated within 3 months).
- Intra-Africa/ACP declaration form.
How to Apply for LaSoMa Scholarship
- Contact host institution to confirm admission criteria
- Review eligibility requirements
- Prepare documents (PDF format, named properly)
- Request recommendation letters (sent directly to [email protected])
- Complete online application via Apply for LaSoMa Scholarship portal
- Receive confirmation and reference number
- Shortlisted candidates invited for online interview
- Successful candidates must gain admission, obtain visa, and sign scholarship agreement
- Enrol in LaSoMa Preparatory Graduate School and begin PhD research
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the LaSoMa Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the LaSoMa Scholarship?
The LaSoMa Scholarship is a fully funded PhD program in Engineering for African students, funded by the European Union. It focuses on laser manufacturing and solar energy technologies.
Who can apply for the LaSoMa Scholarship?
Nationals and residents of any African country who hold a Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field, demonstrate English proficiency, and align their research with laser manufacturing, solar systems, or climate change.
What are the benefits of the LaSoMa Scholarship?
Benefits include full tuition fee waiver, monthly stipend, medical insurance, research consumables, travel support, joint supervision, publication support, and participation in the LaSoMa Preparatory Graduate School.
What is the application deadline for the LaSoMa Scholarship?
The application deadline is 22 June 2026. The call opens on 8 May 2026, and successful candidates will be notified by 13 July 2026.
Which countries are eligible for the LaSoMa Scholarship?
Applicants from all African countries may apply. Host institutions are located in Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria. Scholars must study in a different African country than their nationality.
What fields of study are covered by the LaSoMa Scholarship?
PhD programs are available in Manufacturing & Electrical Engineering (Pentecost University, Ghana), Mechatronic Engineering (JKUAT, Kenya), Industrial & Materials Engineering (FUT Minna, Nigeria), and Engineering Physics (FU Lokoja, Nigeria).
How are candidates selected for the LaSoMa Scholarship?
Selection is based on document evaluation (70 points max) and interview assessment (70 points max). A minimum of 35 points is required at each stage, with a final ranking out of 140 points.
What documents are required for the LaSoMa Scholarship application?
Required documents include certified passport biodata page, certified degree certificates and transcripts, CV (max 4 pages), 500-word motivation letter, elevator pitch video (max 2 minutes), research proposal, two recommendation letters, and an Intra-Africa/ACP declaration form.
How long does the LaSoMa Scholarship last?
The mobility duration ranges from 6 to 36 months, depending on the research programme.
How do I apply for the LaSoMa Scholarship?
Contact the host institution, prepare your documents, request recommendation letters sent to [email protected], and complete the online application via the LaSoMa Scholarship portal.
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