The Kyoto University in partnership with the Canon Foundation in Europe has opened applications for the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship Program 2026 for highly qualified African researchers and scholars.
The Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship offers financial support of up to €27,500 annually alongside travel funding for selected candidates conducting research related to African Studies in Japan or Africa.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Japan
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | €27,500 Grant | Travel Costs
- Deadline: September 15, 2026
Scholarship Details
The Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship Programme at Kyoto University is designed to strengthen academic collaboration and research exchange between Japan and Africa.
The programme supports researchers from Kyoto University who wish to conduct research in Africa, as well as scholars from Kyoto University’s African partner institutions seeking to undertake research activities in Kyoto, Japan.
The initiative is funded by the Canon Foundation in Europe, an independent philanthropic organisation committed to promoting scientific cooperation and cultural exchange between Europe and Japan. Established in 1987, the foundation actively supports international academic and research collaborations across different regions of the world.
The scholarship focuses on advancing African Studies and fostering stronger academic partnerships through research, innovation, and knowledge exchange.
Eligibility Criteria
To be qualified for the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship, applicants must:
- Hold at least a Master’s degree (MA)
- Be employed at Kyoto University or one of Kyoto University’s partner institutions in Africa
- Apply as a postdoctoral fellow or faculty member
- Provide one reference letter from a prospective host at Kyoto University
- Demonstrate evidence of an existing partnership with Kyoto University or its affiliated institutions
Applicants are encouraged to consult Kyoto University’s Global Engagement platform for the complete list of partner institutions.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants for the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship will receive:
- Financial support ranging from €22,500 to €27,500 annually
- Travel expense coverage
- Research support funding
- Opportunity to conduct international collaborative research
The financial support is prorated depending on the duration of the approved research programme.
Required Documents
To apply for this scholarship, applicants must prepare to submit:
- Detailed research plan including:
- Research title
- Proposed start and end dates
- Estimated budget covering travel, accommodation, insurance, and research costs
- Two reference letters
- One academic or professional recommendation letter
- One confirmation letter from the proposed research host institution
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copy of doctoral certificate or highest academic qualification
- One passport photograph
- List of academic publications or professional achievements in chronological order
How to Apply
To apply for the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship:
- Visit the official programme webpage
- Prepare and compile all required application documents
- Submit all documents to the Kyoto University Africa Unit via email
- Wait for the Selection Committee of the Canon Foundation in Europe to review applications and communicate results
For inquiries regarding the application process, applicants may contact the Kyoto University Africa Unit through the official email provided on the programme webpage.
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