ARISE Project 2026 PhD Scholarships and Postdoctoral Fellowships in Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Applications are now open for the 2026 ARISE Project PhD Scholarships and Postdoctoral Fellowships in Artificial Intelligence (AI). The programme is implemented by the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) under the ARISE Project (Advancing Responsible and Gender-Inclusive Artificial Intelligence Capacity in Africa’s Higher Education Ecosystem).

The initiative seeks to strengthen Africa’s AI research capacity by supporting scholars whose work advances responsible, ethical, and gender-inclusive AI aligned with Africa’s development priorities.

PhD Scholarships in AI-Related Fields

ATPS invites applications from doctoral students already enrolled in African higher education institutions. Under this call, ten (10) PhD candidates will be supported to conduct AI-related research that addresses critical societal challenges across the continent.

Selected scholars will also benefit from opportunities to attend international AI conferences and workshops, helping them gain global exposure and build strong research networks.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be African nationals or permanent residents living in Africa, with a strong commitment to the continent’s development through AI
• Be enrolled in or accepted into a PhD programme at an accredited African higher education institution
• Conduct research focused on responsible AI applications within ATPS thematic priority areas, including:
  • Agriculture
  • Climate change
  • Energy
  • Health
  • Education
  • Digital economy
  • Creative industries
• Demonstrate strong attention to gender-responsiveness, ethical AI, equity, and inclusion
• Clearly show how their research addresses AI skills gaps across Africa
• Possess a strong academic background, including at least a Master’s degree, with relevant publications and/or patents

Application Process

Applicants are required to:

• Submit a detailed research proposal (maximum of 8 pages) outlining objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, impact, and alignment with ARISE goals
• Provide academic transcripts, CV, two recommendation letters (academic and professional), and proof of PhD enrolment or acceptance
• Clearly emphasise responsible and gender-inclusive AI approaches
• Submit applications via the ATPS online portal by March 15, 2026

Selection will follow a transparent, merit-based process that prioritises equity, diversity, and gender inclusion.

Postdoctoral Fellowships in AI-Related Fields

In addition to the PhD scholarships, ATPS is offering six (6) postdoctoral fellowships under the ARISE Project. These fellowships will be hosted by African institutions actively engaged in AI research and development.

The programme enables postdoctoral researchers to apply advanced AI tools to address Africa’s pressing challenges, including food insecurity, climate change, health, and environmental sustainability. Fellows will also receive support to participate in international AI conferences and workshops within Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be African nationals or permanent residents based in Africa
• Hold a PhD in an AI-related field, obtained within the last five years
• Be hosted by a recognised African institution involved in AI research and development
• Align proposed research with responsible, ethical, and gender-inclusive AI within ATPS thematic priority areas
• Demonstrate a strong publication record and potential for high-impact research
• Be fully available for the fellowship duration and willing to relocate, if required

Application Process

Applicants must:

• Submit an approved postdoctoral research proposal (maximum of 8 pages) detailing the project, work plan, expected outputs, impacts, and alignment with ARISE objectives
• Provide a PhD certificate, academic transcripts, CV, publication list, two recommendation letters, and a formal letter of support and acceptance from the host institution
• Clearly highlight ethical AI and gender-responsiveness in the proposal
• Apply through the ATPS online portal by March 31, 2026

Selection will be conducted through a fair, transparent, and inclusive process to strengthen responsible AI capacity across Africa.

Apply for ARISE Project PhD Scholarships and Postdoctoral Fellowships