Call for Application: 2026 AfDB–SHOU Scholarships for Master’s and Phd studies in Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Marine Sciences

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), in collaboration with Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU), announces the 2026 AfDB–SHOU Scholarship Programmes for African nationals. These prestigious opportunities are designed to strengthen Africa’s expertise in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, and aquatic resource management. The initiative aligns with the AfDB’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), which prioritises capacity development, innovation, and environmental sustainability across the continent.

Shanghai Ocean University is an internationally recognised institution renowned for its research excellence in marine and aquatic sciences. With state-of-the-art training facilities, globally experienced faculty members, and a strong emphasis on innovation, SHOU provides an exceptional academic environment for postgraduate and professional development.

Benefits Offer

The scholarship offers comprehensive financial and academic support to successful applicants. It covers full tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, meals, and a monthly stipend. Scholars also benefit from access to modern laboratories, advanced research equipment, and specialised training spaces.
It should be noted that travel-related expenses, including international flights and visa costs, are the responsibility of the selected candidates.

Available Programmes

The 2026 scholarship intake includes a range of academic programmes at both Master’s and PhD levels. Areas of study include:

• Aquaculture
• Marine Science
• Fisheries
• Food Science
• Engineering
• Applied Economics and Fishery Economics

In addition to postgraduate degrees, the partnership offers a three-week Summer School Programme focused on marine cultivation and fisheries management. This short programme is designed for early-career professionals and students seeking to enhance technical capacity in a condensed, practice-oriented environment.

Approach of Learning and Training

All programmes integrate theoretical instruction with extensive practical engagement. This approach allows scholars to develop both academic and hands-on competencies in key marine and fisheries disciplines. Training components include:

• Academic lectures delivered by subject matter experts
• Laboratory-based experimentation and data collection
• Research seminars and academic discussions
• Field visits to aquaculture facilities, marine research stations, and environmental monitoring sites

Participants acquire skills in modern aquaculture systems, hatchery operations, water quality monitoring, environmental sampling, and fisheries technology. The programme also emphasise cross-cultural collaboration, enabling scholars to work in diverse, international teams while developing global scientific perspectives.

Criteria for Selection

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be nationals of an AfDB Regional Member Country
• Possess relevant academic qualifications or professional experience in fisheries, aquaculture, marine sciences, or related blue economy fields
• Demonstrate strong academic achievement
• Meet the English language requirements, evidenced by an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80 or above
• Provide evidence of prior research experience if applying for a PhD programme

Applicants who lack formal English proficiency tests may still be considered if they demonstrate an adequate level of English communication suitable for postgraduate study.

Process of Application

The deadline for submission of applications is 10 December 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly by the selection team for further evaluation. Submission of an application does not guarantee selection, and the scholarship does not provide any form of employment with the African Development Bank Group.

When completing the application form, personal information such as name, email address, and contact details will only be collected if the applicant explicitly provides them. Applicants should review all questions carefully and respond accurately, particularly regarding professional experience, academic background, research contributions, and supervisor contact details.

Click Here To Apply

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