Applications are now open for the 2026 AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) Scholarship. Driven by its Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), the Bank Group is financing these scholarship programs to build a new generation of African expertise, fortifying the continent’s institutional and technical foundation for sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resource management.
SHOU is recognized globally as a preeminent research-oriented institution specializing in marine science, aquaculture, and ocean governance. Its network of collaborations with over 40 international institutions and global organizations demonstrates and reinforces its distinguished leadership in advancing sustainable aquatic development and food systems.
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa’s premier multilateral development finance institution, dedicated to promoting sustainable economic development and social progress across the continent.
Scholarship Location:
- Shanghai Ocean University Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
Requirements
- The AfDB and SHOU urge qualified candidates from across Africa to seize this unique opportunity to advance their expertise and contribute to the continent’s blue economy transformation.
CONTENT STRUCTURE
The program combines:
- Lectures and seminars led by renowned SHOU professors
- Laboratory practice and technical training
- Research-based discussions and group presentations
- Experiential Learning through field visits to major aquaculture sites, cultural activities and city tours.
OUTCOMES
By the end of the program, participants will have: - A solid understanding of China’s modern aquaculture systems
- Hands-on skills in aquatic organism observation, environmental sampling, and hatchery operations
- Enhanced cross-cultural communication and teamwork abilities
Types:
- Summer School Programs
- Graduate Programs: Masters and Ph.D.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Masters Program
- Be a national of the AfDB’s Regional Member Country (RMC) with experience in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in related field, or any field, with interest to pursue a career in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- English proficiency, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- Be under 35 years old at the time of application
- Outstanding academic performance (e.g., GPA ≥3.0)
Ph.D. Program - Be a national of the AfDB’s Regional Member Countries RMCs) with experience in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- Hold a Master’s degree in Marine Science, Aquaculture, Economics, Environmental Policy, Development Studies, or a related field
- English proficiency, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80
- Had research experience and published at least 1 paper
- Strong analytical, research, and policy development skills
- Possess excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with experience in multicultural environments
Benefits
For all successful candidates, the scholarships will cover:
- Full tuition, accommodation, meals, and monthly stipends.
- Access to world-class faculty and state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Specialized professional training in marine and aquatic sciences.
Note: Successful candidates will be responsible for flight tickets and visa fees.
Important Notice:
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for next steps.
- Successful applicants must possess English proficiency, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- Successful applicants must comply with all SHOU rules, regulations, and codes of conduct.
- This fellowship does not confer employment status with the African Development Bank Group.
For More Information:
