Fully-funded marine science scholarships target Africa’s blue economy leaders

Applications open for 2026 postgraduate programme

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) have announced a scholarship programme targeting qualified African professionals seeking to advance their expertise in marine science, aquaculture, and sustainable fisheries management.

The initiative, aligned with the Bank's Ten-Year Strategy (2024-2033), aims to strengthen Africa's technical and technological capacity in critical sectors of the blue economy. As the continent looks to harness its vast marine resources, the programme offers Africans an opportunity to gain world-class training at one of the globe's leading institutions in aquatic sciences.

Successful candidates will benefit from full financial support that includes tuition, accommodation and meals as well as a monthly stipend. Prospective candidates should note that flight tickets and visa fees are not included in the scholarship package and remain the responsibility of recipients.

The AfDB and SHOU are encouraging qualified candidates from across Africa to seize this unique opportunity to advance their expertise and contribute to the continent’s blue economy transformation.

The host university is a globally recognised, research-oriented institution specialising in marine science, aquaculture, and governance. It collaborates with over 40 international institutions and global organisations, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable aquatic development and food systems research.

Through its world-class faculty and modern facilities, the university provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for addressing contemporary challenges in marine resource management.

Strategic importance

The scholarship programme represents a significant investment in Africa's blue economy transformation. With the continent's coastlines and inland water bodies offering immense potential for sustainable development, trained professionals in aquaculture and marine science are increasingly critical to economic growth and food security.

The development bank's support for this initiative reflects its broader commitment to building technical capacity across priority sectors identified in its strategic framework.

Application details

Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply for the 2026 scholarship programme. Further details on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines are available through the African Development Bank Group and Shanghai Ocean University official channels.

This partnership offers African scholars a unique pathway to contribute meaningfully to the continent's sustainable development while gaining internationally recognized qualifications in a rapidly growing sector.

More information and application link below.

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