The Rebecca Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant 2026 is a $5,000 USD prize awarded to a single African scholar or practitioner. Established by CIES and ADEA, the grant commemorates the legacy of Rebecca H. Rhodes by funding research that investigates how children and youth with disabilities in Africa can effectively learn to read and write. The program specifically targets researchers in West, Central, East, and Southern Africa—regions where literacy resources for those with special needs are most constrained. Eligible applicants must be African citizens currently residing in or intending to work in Africa. The research must be completed within 18 months of the award.
Rebecca Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Granting Body | CIES and ADEA |
| Target Regions | West, East, Central, and Southern Africa |
| Reward | $5,000 USD Prize |
| Submission Languages | English or French |
| Application Format | Single file (Word/PDF) via Email |
| Deadline | February 27, 2026 |
Rebecca Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant 2026 Details
The literacy landscape in Africa faces a critical gap: while international aid is present, fewer than 10% of children with disabilities attend school, and even fewer attain foundational literacy. The Rebecca Rhodes Grant empowers African scholars to lead the narrative, utilizing local context and expertise to solve inclusive education challenges.
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This prize is not just a financial award but a recognition of high-quality, practical research that can influence national policy and sustainable educational approaches across the continent.
Benefits for the Rebecca Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant 2026
Tier 1: Primary Research Prize ($5,000 USD)
- Direct Funding: A single primary applicant receives $5,000 USD to cover essential research expenses, including data collection, field visits, and materials related to literacy education for youth with disabilities.
Tier 2: Professional Recognition & Mentorship
- CIES/ADEA Association: Winners gain visibility within the Comparative and International Education Society (CIES) and the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) networks.
Tier 3: Knowledge Dissemination
- Results Publication: The grant provides a platform for results to be made available to stakeholders within 18 months, ensuring the research impacts real-world inclusive literacy policies.
Eligibility Requirements for Rebecca Rhodes Inclusive Literacy Grant 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must be scholars or practitioners capable of conducting high-quality research on disabilities and foundational literacy (reading/writing).
- Study Status: Open to individuals (not organizations) holding citizenship in an African country.
- Visa/Residency Status: Must currently reside in an African country OR have resided in Africa for at least two weeks in the last 24 months (counting from Feb 2026), with a clear intent to work in Africa for the next 1-2 years.
- Program Admission: The proposed research must be conducted specifically in West, East, Central, or Southern Africa.
How to Apply for Rebecca Rhodes Inclusive Literacy Grant 2026 (Step by Step)
- Prepare Document: Compile all application materials into a single file (Word, Google Doc, or PDF). Use 12pt Times New Roman, single-spaced, with 1-inch margins.
- Select Language: Applications are accepted in either English or French.
- Internal Review: Ensure the research plan details how foundational reading/writing skills for children with disabilities will be investigated.
- Email Submission: Send the completed single-file application to africaninclusiveliteracyaward@gmail.com.
Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can an organization apply for this grant?
No, the grant is only awarded to a single primary applicant (an individual), not to a group or organization.
2. What regions are prioritized for this research?
Preference is given to applicants and research conducted in West, East, Central, and Southern Africa.
3. Does the research have to cover both reading and writing?
It must cover foundational reading skills. Writing and written communication skills are optional but highly encouraged.
4. Is there an age limit for the primary applicant?
No, there is no specific age limit, provided the applicant is a qualified African scholar or practitioner.
5. Can I submit my application in Portuguese?
No, applications are only accepted in English or French.
6. What is the timeline for completing the research?
The research must be completed and results must be made available within 18 months of receiving the prize (awarded in March 2026).
7. Do I need to be currently living in Africa to apply?
You must either currently reside in an African country or have lived there for at least two weeks within the last 24 months, with plans to work there in the near future.
8. What font settings are required for the application?
The application must be single-spaced, using 12pt Times New Roman (or equivalent) with 1-inch/2.5cm margins.
9. Who was Rebecca Rhodes?
She was a champion for inclusive education. This grant was established in her memory by CIES and ADEA to continue her work in helping children with disabilities.
10. How will the winner be notified?
Winners are typically announced in March. Since the application is via email, ensure the email address used for submission is monitored regularly.
