A Major Opportunity for Africa’s Blue Economy Talent Development
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), in partnership with the Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU), has opened applications for the prestigious 2026 SHOU Scholarship Programmes. This fully funded initiative aims to strengthen Africa’s expertise in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, and natural resource management. The programme directly supports the AfDB’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), which prioritises skills development, food security, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth across the continent.
A World-Class University Driving Marine Science Excellence
Shanghai Ocean University is globally recognised as a leading research institution specialising in the marine and aquatic sciences. It offers advanced training, cutting-edge research laboratories, and a diverse academic environment that attracts scholars from around the world. Through this partnership with AfDB, African students can access world-class education and build the technical expertiese they need to transform African continents’s blue economy.
What the Scholarship Covers
One of the major benefits of the 2026 SHOU Scholarship Programmes is its comprehensive funding package, which includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Free on-campus accommodation
- Meals throughout the programme
- A monthly living stipend
- Access to laboratories, research facilities, and academic mentorship
Important Note: Successful applicants must cover their own airfare and visa costs.
This generous support ensures that scholars can focus fully on research, academic excellence, and building skills for high-impact careers.
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Programmes Offered for 2026
The scholarship offers opportunities across multiple academic levels and disciplines essential for Africa’s sustainable marine development. These include:
Master’s and PhD Degree Programmes
- Aquaculture
- Marine Science
- Fisheries
- Food Science
- Engineering
- Applied Economics
- Fishery Economics
These degree programmes combine scientific training with practical problem-solving, preparing graduates to address real-world challenges such as overfishing, climate-driven changes in marine ecosystems, and aquaculture innovation.
3-Week Summer School Programme
SHOU also provides a specialised short-term summer school focused on:
- Marine cultivation
- Fisheries management
- Aquaculture systems
- Hands-on laboratory and field training
The summer school gives early-career professionals or students a valuable introduction to modern marine science technologies.
A Practical, Research-Driven Learning Experience
The SHOU training approach blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Scholars participate in:
- Lectures from international experts
- Laboratory experiments
- Environmental sampling
- Aquaculture system design
- Hatchery operation training
- Research seminars
- Field visits to marine research centres
This structure ensures that participants gain not only academic knowledge but also the technical skills needed to drive innovation in the blue economy sector.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be nationals of AfDB Regional Member Countries
- Hold a relevant academic background or professional experience in fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, or the blue economy
- Meet the programme’s English language proficiency requirements
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
For PhD applicants, additional research experience is mandatory, along with clear research interests aligned with SHOU’s focus areas.
Application Deadline and Selection Process
The application deadline for the 2026 intake is 10 December 2025. After reviewing all submissions, SHOU and AfDB will contact shortlisted candidates for further steps, including interviews or additional documentation.
Aspiring scholars should note that participation in the programme does not guarantee employment with the African Development Bank. However, graduates will gain competitive skills, networks, and qualifications that position them for leadership roles in research institutions, government agencies, academia, and marine-related industries.
Africa’s Next Generation of Marine Science Leaders
The AfDB-SHOU partnership represents a major investment in Africa’s future. By equipping talented Africans with advanced skills in marine sciences and aquaculture, the programme supports sustainable resource management and long-term economic growth. This opportunity is ideal for individuals passionate about driving innovation and transformation within Africa’s blue economy.
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