Great news for African students and researchers! The Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026, offered by the Canon Foundation in Europe and Kyoto University, is now open for applications. This fully funded fellowship is designed to support talented African postgraduates and researchers who want to carry out research in Japan or Africa. If you’re looking for a chance to advance your academic career and connect with global scholars, this opportunity is for you!
What is the Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship?
This scholarship, which began in 2018, is a collaboration between the Canon Foundation in Europe (CFE) and Kyoto University (KU). It aims to strengthen academic ties between Japan and Africa by supporting research in various fields, especially African Studies. The program allows African scholars to conduct research at Kyoto University in Japan or for Kyoto University scholars to carry out research in African institutions.
The fellowship is open to highly qualified researchers from African Development Bank (AfDB) member countries, including Nigeria. It provides financial support for postgraduate students (Master’s and Postdoctoral scholars) to pursue their research dreams.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship offers generous support to successful applicants. Here’s what you stand to gain:
- Financial Support: Scholars receive between €22,500 and €27,500 per year (approximately NGN 24 million to NGN 29 million, depending on exchange rates). This amount is adjusted based on the duration of your research.
- Travel Costs: The scholarship covers travel expenses to and from Japan or your chosen research destination in Africa.
- Research Opportunities: You get to work in world-class facilities at Kyoto University or partner institutions in Africa, giving you access to cutting-edge resources and academic networks.
- Flexible Duration: The fellowship lasts for a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks and can extend up to 1 year. You can also split your research period if needed.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an African Development Bank member country (Nigeria is included).
- Be a highly qualified researcher, either pursuing a Master’s degree or holding a Postdoctoral position.
- Have a research focus related to African Studies or a field that aligns with the program’s goals.
- Be affiliated with Kyoto University or one of its partner institutions in Africa.
- Be available to start your research between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026.
How to Apply
Applying for the Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship is straightforward, but you need to act fast! Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Check the Kyoto University Africa Unit website at http://www.africaunit.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/news/20220603_1992/ for detailed application guidelines and the application form.
- Prepare Your Documents: You’ll need to submit a research proposal, academic transcripts, a CV, and recommendation letters. Make sure your documents clearly show your qualifications and research goals.
- Submit Before the Deadline: All applications must be submitted by September 15, 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
- Contact for Support: If you have questions, you can reach out to the Canon Foundation via email at canon_caas@jambo.africa.kyoto-u.ac.jp.
Why This Scholarship Matters
This scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for Nigerian and other African scholars to gain international exposure and contribute to global research. Studying or researching at Kyoto University, one of Japan’s top institutions, will open doors to new academic and career opportunities. Plus, the program encourages collaboration between African and Japanese researchers, fostering innovation and development.
Don’t Miss Out!
The Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing chance to take your research to the next level. Whether you’re a Master’s student or a Postdoctoral researcher, this fully funded fellowship can help you achieve your academic goals. Mark your calendar for the September 15, 2025 deadline and start preparing your application today!
For more details, visit the official Kyoto University Africa Unit website at http://www.africaunit.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en/news/20220603_1992/. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.