The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), in collaboration with Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU), has announced the 2026 AfDB–SHOU Scholarship Programmes. These prestigious opportunities are designed to strengthen Africa’s expertise in critical areas of the Blue Economy, including sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, and aquatic resource management. This initiative directly aligns with the AfDB’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), which prioritises capacity development, innovation, and environmental sustainability across the continent. SHOU provides an exceptional academic environment with state-of-the-art facilities and globally experienced faculty. The scholarship offers comprehensive financial and academic support, covering all major expenses except international travel and visa costs. The deadline for submission is December 10, 2025.
AfDB–SHOU Scholarship Programmes 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU), China |
| Host Country | China |
| Degree Level | Master’s, PhD, and Three-Week Summer School |
| Field of Study | Fisheries, Marine Science, Aquaculture, Food Science, Engineering |
| Funding | Full Sponsorship (Tuition, Accommodation, Meals, Stipend) |
| Eligible Countries | AfDB Regional Member Countries (African Nationals) |
| Key Criteria | Relevant Qualifications, Strong Academic Achievement, IELTS/TOEFL score, Prior Research (for PhD) |
| Application Deadline | December 10, 2025 |
AfDB–SHOU Scholarship Details
Shanghai Ocean University is an internationally recognised institution renowned for its research excellence in marine and aquatic sciences.
Join our Telegram Channel for Instant Scholarship Updates
The partnership with AfDB is focused on integrating theoretical instruction with extensive practical engagement, enabling scholars to develop both academic and hands-on competencies essential for driving Africa’s sustainable development goals. The programs emphasize cross-cultural collaboration, allowing scholars to work in diverse, international teams while developing global scientific perspectives.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Award Tiers
The scholarship offers comprehensive financial and academic support to successful applicants, ensuring scholars can focus fully on their training and research.
Tier 1: Core Academic and Living Support (Full Coverage)
This is the most prestigious tier, covering the essential costs of study and daily life in China.
- Value: Full tuition fees for the chosen Master’s or PhD program.
- Criteria: Provided to all successful postgraduate scholars.
- Value: On-campus accommodation is fully covered.
- Criteria: Scholars are provided with living quarters at SHOU.
- Value: Meals and a monthly stipend are provided to cover personal expenses.
- Criteria: Ensures comfortable living for the scholar throughout the study period.
Tier 2: Research and Training Facilities Access
This category focuses on providing the necessary resources for high-quality research and practical skill development.
- Access to modern laboratories and advanced research equipment.
- Specialized training spaces for practical engagement (e.g., aquaculture facilities, marine research stations).
- Enrollment in a program that includes Field visits to aquaculture facilities and environmental monitoring sites.
Tier 3: Programmatic and Professional Development
These benefits enhance the scholar’s expertise and professional readiness for their return to Africa.
- Opportunity to learn skills in modern aquaculture systems, hatchery operations, water quality monitoring, and fisheries technology.
- Exposure to Academic lectures delivered by subject matter experts and participation in research seminars.
- Opportunity to enroll in the three-week Summer School Programme focused on marine cultivation and fisheries management (available to students and early-career professionals).
Eligibility Requirements for AfDB–SHOU Scholarship Programmes 2026
To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria related to nationality, academic background, and language proficiency.
- Academic/Leadership:
- Must possess relevant academic qualifications or professional experience in fisheries, aquaculture, marine sciences, or related blue economy fields.
- Must demonstrate strong academic achievement.
- PhD applicants must provide evidence of prior research experience.
- Study Status: Must meet the English language requirements, evidenced by an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80 or above. (Applicants lacking formal tests may be considered if they demonstrate adequate English communication.)
- Visa Status: Must be nationals of an AfDB Regional Member Country.
- Program Admission: Must be applying for one of the available postgraduate degree or professional development programs (Aquaculture, Marine Science, Fisheries, Food Science, Engineering, Applied Economics, etc.).
How to Apply for AfDB–SHOU Scholarship Programmes 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is managed online, requiring careful attention to personal details, academic history, and research contributions.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the criteria, especially regarding nationality (AfDB Regional Member Country) and academic qualifications (including English proficiency).
- Review Available Programmes: Select your desired academic track (Master’s, PhD, or Summer School) and familiarize yourself with its specific research focus and curriculum.
- Complete Online Application Form: Access the application form (hosted on Microsoft Forms). Carefully review all questions and respond accurately, providing details on professional experience, academic background, research contributions, and supervisor contact details.
- Submit Application: Submit the complete application form before the deadline. Note: Personal information will only be collected if explicitly provided by the applicant, and applicants should exercise caution with highly sensitive data.
Application Deadline: December 10, 2025
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
For more Information Click HERE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What degree levels are covered by the AfDB–SHOU Scholarship?
The scholarship covers academic programs at both the Master’s and PhD levels, as well as a three-week Summer School Programme for professionals.
2. Is the scholarship fully funded, and what expenses are covered?
Yes, the scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, covering full tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, meals, and a monthly stipend.
3. What expenses are not covered by the AfDB–SHOU Scholarship?
Travel-related expenses, including international flights and visa costs, are the responsibility of the selected candidates and are not covered by the scholarship.
4. What is the deadline for submitting applications for the 2026 intake?
The deadline for the submission of all applications is 10 December 2025.
5. What are the English language requirements for applicants?
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80 or above. Candidates lacking formal tests may still be considered if they demonstrate adequate English communication.
6. Who is eligible to apply based on nationality?
Only nationals of an AfDB Regional Member Country (African nationals) are eligible to apply for this scholarship program.
7. What kind of research experience is required for PhD applicants?
Applicants for the PhD programs are required to provide evidence of prior research experience relevant to fisheries, marine sciences, or related blue economy fields.
8. What is the primary focus of the academic programs offered by SHOU?
The programs focus on strengthening expertise in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, and aquatic resource management in line with the AfDB’s strategy.
9. What is the learning structure of the AfDB–SHOU programs?
The learning structure integrates theoretical instruction with extensive practical engagement, including academic lectures, laboratory experimentation, research seminars, and field visits.
10. Does securing the scholarship guarantee employment with the African Development Bank Group?
No, the official notice states that the scholarship does not provide any form of employment with the African Development Bank Group.
