The UKUDLA PhD Scholarships 2026, offered by the African German Centre of Excellence UKUDLA and funded by DAAD (Germany), are designed for academically strong African candidates who want to work at the intersection of sustainable, resilient food systems and applied data science. This is a doctoral-level scholarship for candidates who have not yet started their PhD and are ready to commit to full-time study.
The programme supports scholars for 36 months, with a possible extension of up to 42 months, and includes a compulsory six-month research exchange in Germany. Applications for the 2026 intake are open until February 2026, making this a timely opportunity for future PhD researchers across Africa.
What the UKUDLA PhD Scholarship Offers?
Selected scholars will be enrolled for full-time doctoral studies at one of UKUDLA’s partner universities in South Africa or Malawi, while benefiting from a well-structured and generous funding package. The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of EUR 900, along with a rent subsidy of EUR 30 where accommodation is not provided, and a medical aid contribution of up to EUR 20 per month.
Scholars also gain access to UKUDLA Graduate Centre training, including short courses, summer schools, workshops, and academic skills development modules. A key feature of the programme is the fully funded six-month research exchange at the University of Hohenheim in Germany, including travel support. Additional research funding may be requested to cover equipment, materials, consumables, and local research-related travel.
How to Pass Eligibility Requirements?
Applicants are generally eligible if they hold a master’s degree in a discipline related to food systems, agriculture, environmental sciences, or data science, with a minimum overall average of 68%. Candidates must not have commenced a doctoral programme previously and must be willing to study full time.
Applicants must be African nationals or permanent residents currently living in an African country, demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 79/80, or proof of English-medium education), and show clear motivation and commitment to research. Preference is given to applicants who can demonstrate leadership potential or community engagement, and whose most recent degree was completed within the last six years.
Apply: https://www.digiface.org/ukudla-call-for-doctoral-scholarship-applications-2026/
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the UKUDLA PhD Scholarships 2026 is 06 February 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews in mid-February 2026, with final selections expected before the end of February. Successful applicants may begin their doctoral studies as early as March 2026, subject to admission at the host university.