The AI4D Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Scholarship Programme is a prestigious initiative aimed at empowering women in STEMacross sub-Saharan Africa. This program is designed to support PhD students and early-career academics working on AI research that addresses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Offered by the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), this scholarship provides a unique opportunity for women to advance their academic careers and make a tangible impact on the AI landscape in Africa.
About the Program The AI4D Scholarship Programme is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It focuses on AI and machine learning solutions that can address key social challenges across sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to both AI research and SDG targets. The scholarship supports a two-year PhD study, covering tuition fees of up to $4,000 and research activities up to $24,000.
Partial Scholarship Amount: A total of up to $28,000 for tuition fees and research activities.
Tuition Fees: Up to $4,000 for two years of study.
Research Activities: Up to $24,000 to support the research efforts of the recipient in developing responsible AIsolutions.
Eligibility Criteria
Gender: The scholarship is open to women in sub-Saharan Africa who are actively engaged in AI research.
Study Enrollment: Applicants must already be registered in a PhD program in AI, such as machine learning, natural language processing, or intelligent robotics. They should have completed coursework and had their research proposal approved by their supervisor.
Academic Credentials: Candidates must demonstrate strong academic qualifications and a commitment to pursue an academic career in AI and machine learning.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must be proficient in the language of instruction at their host university (English, French, or Portuguese).
Eligible Countries: Applicants must be nationals or permanent residents of eligible sub-Saharan countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, and others (see the full list of eligible countries above).
Application Requirements Applicants must provide:
A letter of support from their PhD supervisor.
A copy of their PhD study admission letter.
Evidence of an approved research proposal.
Proof of national or other necessary approvals for conducting research.
Program Structure The program is structured to provide not only financial support but also guidance and mentorship through:
Research Mentorship: Access to experts in the field of AI and machine learning, ensuring fellows receive valuable feedback and professional guidance throughout their research.
AI Training: Fellows will participate in training focused on the development of responsible AI that addresses social challenges.
SDG Impact: Each project will be expected to directly contribute to the achievement of one or more Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that research outcomes have a tangible positive impact on African communities.
Applications are open to eligible women who are committed to advancing AI research and machine learning in sub-Saharan Africa. Apply for the AI4D Scholarship Programme 2025 through the official application portal below:
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