Young researchers from Africa and Europe can now apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027. The programme creates opportunities for scholars to work together on research that addresses common global challenges. In addition, participants will build international partnerships, improve research skills, and develop practical solutions that support sustainable development.
Furthermore, the programme promotes collaboration under the AU-EU Innovation Agenda. As a result, scholars will exchange ideas, strengthen research networks, and create innovations that benefit both continents.
For more scholarship opportunity visit: https://opportunitylab.net/category/scholarships
What Is the AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027?
The AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027 is a collaborative research initiative that connects African and European scholars. Rather than working alone, participants will form international research partnerships and produce practical research outputs.
Initially, the programme will select 10 scholars. Afterwards, organisers will match them into five Africa-Europe research pairs based on shared research interests.
Each pair will:
- Conduct collaborative research.
- Develop a practical solution based on existing research.
- Produce a joint research output.
- Present innovative ideas before an expert panel.
Finally, the three highest-scoring teams will travel to Europe to present their work at the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in June 2027.
Why You Should Apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027
This programme offers much more than research experience. Instead, it helps scholars expand their international networks while improving their academic and professional careers.
Successful participants will receive:
- Collaboration with African and European researchers.
- International research experience.
- Peer learning opportunities.
- Science communication support.
- Innovation-focused mentorship.
- Opportunity to develop solution-driven research.
- Sponsorship to attend the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting in Europe for finalist teams.
- Recognition for impactful research.
Moreover, participants will strengthen their ability to solve real-world problems through research and innovation.
Who Can Apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027?
You can apply if you meet these requirements:
- Be between 25 and 35 years old.
- Live in Africa or Europe.
- Be enrolled in a PhD, Postdoctoral programme, or another advanced academic programme.
- Have completed or currently conduct research related to the AU-EU Innovation Agenda Capacities for Science Action.
Additionally, applicants must submit an abstract of their research during the application process.
If you are searching for more related opportunities visit OpportunityLab: https://opportunitylab.net/world-bank-group-africa-fellowship-program-2027-now-open, https://opportunitylab.net/unesco-japan-young-researchers-fellowships-programme-2026
How Scholars Will Be Selected
The selection committee will review every application carefully.
Specifically, applications will be assessed based on:
- Research relevance.
- Academic quality.
- Innovation potential.
- Alignment with Africa-Europe cooperation priorities.
Consequently, only the strongest applications will move to the pairing stage.
How the AEIP Scholars Programme Works
The programme follows several stages.
Applications Open (July–August 2026)
Eligible scholars submit their Expressions of Interest.
Selection and Pairing (September 2026)
Organisers select ten scholars and match them into five Africa-Europe research teams.
Research Collaboration (September 2026–March 2027)
Each team develops joint research and prepares a collaborative solution.
Evaluation (April 2027)
Experts assess every submission and select the top three scholar pairs.
Final Presentation (June 2027)
The finalists travel to Europe to present their work during the AEIP Stakeholder Meeting.
Research Areas and Evaluation Criteria
Each scholar pair will design a practical innovation that addresses shared African and European challenges.
The expert panel will evaluate solutions using these criteria:
- Impact on women and young people.
- Benefits for communities and institutions.
- Strength of the proposed solution.
- Technology-driven innovation.
- Practicality and feasibility.
Therefore, applicants should focus on producing realistic and scalable ideas.
Expected Outcomes of the Programme
The initiative aims to deliver several long-term results.
These include:
- Collaborative research publications.
- Stronger Africa-Europe partnerships.
- Practical innovation projects.
- Increased research capacity.
- Sustainable development solutions.
- Better knowledge exchange across continents.
As a result, scholars will contribute to research that creates measurable social impact.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027 is:
31 August 2026
Because late applications are unlikely to be accepted, submit your Expression of Interest well before the closing date.
How to Apply for the AEIP Scholars Programme 2026–2027
Interested applicants should complete the online Expression of Interest through the official AEIP application portal.
Before submitting your application, ensure that:
- Your research abstract is complete.
- Your information is accurate.
- Your research aligns with the programme objectives.
- You apply before the deadline.
