For African researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge about the continent's most pressing challenges, few opportunities rival the prestige and practical support offered by the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) African Scholarship Programme. Now accepting applications for its 2027 cohort, this fully funded research residency invites PhD students and postdoctoral researchers based at African universities and research centres to spend 60 to 90 days at one of Europe's foremost Africa-focused academic institutions in Uppsala, Sweden.
This is a landmark opportunity for Somali scholars and researchers. Whether your work examines governance and state-building, peace and security, climate resilience in the Horn of Africa, economic development, or social inclusion, the NAI programme provides the infrastructure, funding, and intellectual community to elevate your research to an international standard. With at least 70% of fellowships reserved for women, the programme also makes a bold commitment to gender equity in African scholarship.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know — from eligibility requirements and financial benefits to application tips and why this programme matters for Somali capacity building.
About the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI)
The Nordic Africa Institute is a specialised research institution located in Uppsala, Sweden, operating as part of Uppsala University — one of Scandinavia's oldest and most respected universities, founded in 1477. NAI's mission is centred on building capacity in knowledge production about Africa and fostering meaningful academic relationships between African and Nordic research communities.
NAI occupies a unique position in the global research landscape. Unlike general development institutes, it focuses exclusively on contemporary Africa, with particular strength in the social sciences and humanities. The institute houses a specialised library with one of Europe's most comprehensive collections of literature on modern Africa, making it an invaluable resource for visiting scholars.
Over decades, NAI has hosted hundreds of African researchers, contributing to a vibrant network of scholars whose work has shaped policy and academic discourse on African development, governance, peace, and sustainability. For Somali researchers, accessing this network and its resources represents a transformative professional opportunity.
What the African Scholarship Programme Offers
The African Scholarship Programme is a fully funded research residency designed to give African-based researchers dedicated time and resources to advance their work in a world-class academic environment. Here is what the programme provides:
Duration and Location
Selected scholars will spend between 60 and 90 days (approximately 2 to 3 months) at the Nordic Africa Institute in Uppsala, Sweden. The residency provides an immersive research experience, allowing scholars to focus entirely on their academic work without the distractions and resource constraints they may face at their home institutions.
Important scheduling note: Research visits cannot take place during June through August or from mid-December to mid-January. Applicants should plan their proposed stay accordingly.
Research Focus Areas
The programme supports research in the social sciences and humanities with a focus on contemporary Africa. Research proposals must align with the United Nations Agenda 2030 (Sustainable Development Goals) and the African Union Agenda 2063 (The Africa We Want). Specifically, NAI prioritises research that falls within five interconnected impact areas:
- Equality, Social Justice & Inclusion — Research addressing disparities, marginalisation, and equitable access to resources and opportunities across the continent.
- Governance, Citizenship & Participation — Studies examining democratic processes, institutional development, civic engagement, and state-building.
- Economy, Employment & Mobility — Research on economic development, labour markets, trade, migration, and livelihood strategies.
- Climate, Natural Resources & Sustainability — Work focused on environmental challenges, climate adaptation, resource management, and sustainable development.
- Peace, Security & Human Rights — Research addressing conflict, peacebuilding, transitional justice, security sector reform, and the protection of human rights.
For Somali researchers, each of these areas presents rich possibilities. From studying federalism and governance reform to examining climate-driven displacement, pastoralist livelihoods, diaspora economic contributions, or women's political participation, the programme's thematic priorities directly intersect with Somalia's development challenges and opportunities.
Financial Benefits: What Successful Applicants Receive
One of the most attractive aspects of this scholarship is its comprehensive financial package, which removes the most common barriers African researchers face when seeking international academic opportunities. The programme covers:
- Return Airfare: Economy class return flight from your home country to Uppsala, Sweden — fully covered by the programme.
- Accommodation: Housing in Uppsala is provided at no cost to the scholar for the entire duration of the residency.
- Subsistence Allowance: A daily allowance of 450 SEK (approximately USD 50) for each day spent in Uppsala, covering meals and personal expenses.
- Installation Grant: A one-time payment of 2,500 SEK (approximately USD 280) to help scholars settle in upon arrival.
- Workspace: A dedicated desk and computer in a shared office at the Nordic Africa Institute.
- Library Access: Full access to the NAI Library, the Uppsala University Library, and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Library — three major academic libraries with extensive collections relevant to African studies.
This financial package means that scholars can focus entirely on their research without worrying about funding logistics. For a 90-day residency, the subsistence allowance alone amounts to approximately 40,500 SEK (around USD 4,500), in addition to accommodation, flights, and the installation grant.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Requirements
The programme is open to two categories of applicants. Read carefully to determine which category applies to you:
Category 1: PhD Students
- You must be currently enrolled in a PhD programme at an Africa-based university or research institution.
- You must hold full-time employment at an African university or research centre.
- You must NOT be currently funded by an international scholarship or international research funding. This is important — the programme specifically targets researchers who lack access to international funding streams.
Category 2: Postdoctoral Researchers
- You must be within four years of completing your PhD.
- You must be employed at an African university or research centre.
General Requirements for All Applicants
- Your research must focus on contemporary Africa within the social sciences and humanities.
- Your research must align with UN Agenda 2030 and AU Agenda 2063.
- Your research must fit within at least one of NAI's five impact areas listed above.
- Applications must be submitted in English.
- Former or current NAI employees are not eligible.
Note for Somali applicants: Researchers employed at Somali universities and research institutions — including the University of Somalia, Mogadishu University, Amoud University, Hargeisa University, and other recognised institutions — are eligible to apply. If you are a Somali national studying or working at a university elsewhere in Africa, you also qualify under the programme's criteria.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
The application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Here is a detailed guide to help you submit a competitive application:
Step 1: Prepare Your Research Proposal (5 pages)
The research proposal is the centrepiece of your application. It must be no longer than five pages and should include the following sections:
- Introduction: Clearly state your research topic and its significance within the broader field of African studies.
- Aims and Scope: Define the specific objectives of your research and the boundaries of your study.
- Literature Review: Demonstrate your familiarity with existing scholarship and identify the gap your research addresses.
- Research Design and Methods: Explain how you will conduct your research, including methodology and data sources.
- Contribution to Knowledge: Articulate what new insights or perspectives your research will bring to the field.
- Reference List: Provide a properly formatted bibliography.
Step 2: Draft Your Work Plan (1 page)
Separately from your research proposal, prepare a concise one-page work plan covering:
- Objectives: What you aim to achieve during your time at NAI.
- Activities: Specific research activities you plan to carry out (e.g., literature reviews, data analysis, manuscript writing, seminar participation).
- Expected Results: Tangible outputs you expect by the end of your residency (e.g., a journal article draft, a completed thesis chapter, a policy brief).
Step 3: Update Your CV
Prepare an updated curriculum vitae that includes a comprehensive list of your publications. Ensure it reflects your most recent academic activities, teaching experience, and research output.
Step 4: Obtain Letter(s) of Support
You need a signed letter of support from your supervisor and/or head of department. This letter should confirm your institutional affiliation, endorse your research, and confirm that your institution supports your participation in the programme.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Online
Applications are submitted through the official ReachMee portal. Visit the application page at: NAI African Scholarship Programme Application Portal.
Application Deadline: 6 April 2026
Critical reminders:
- Incomplete applications will not be considered. Ensure all required documents are uploaded before submission.
- NAI has noted that AI-generated text may disadvantage applicants. Write your proposal in your own voice, drawing on your genuine expertise and original thinking.
- Proofread your application carefully for clarity, coherence, and proper academic English.
Selection Criteria: What Reviewers Look For
Understanding how applications are evaluated will help you craft a stronger submission. NAI's selection committee considers the following factors:
- Research Relevance and Quality: Is your research question significant? Is the methodology sound? Does the proposal demonstrate analytical rigour?
- Alignment with Programme Goals: Does your research clearly connect to one or more of NAI's five impact areas? Does it support the objectives of Agenda 2030 and Agenda 2063?
- Gender Balance: At least 70% of fellowships are reserved for women. Research on gender issues and women's position in society is especially welcomed.
- Geographic Diversity: The selection committee aims for representation from across the African continent.
- Originality: Applications containing AI-generated text may be disadvantaged. Authenticity and original scholarly voice are valued.
Why This Matters for Somali Capacity Building
Somalia's higher education and research sector has made remarkable strides in recent years, but significant challenges remain. Many Somali universities operate with limited research infrastructure, restricted access to international academic databases, and minimal funding for scholarly travel and collaboration. Programmes like the NAI African Scholarship offer a vital bridge across these gaps.
Here is why this opportunity is particularly meaningful for Somali researchers and for Somalia's broader development trajectory:
Strengthening Research Infrastructure
When Somali scholars spend two to three months at a world-class institution like NAI, they gain more than access to books and databases. They acquire research methodologies, academic writing skills, peer review experience, and professional networks that they bring back to their home institutions. This knowledge transfer effect multiplies the impact of each fellowship far beyond the individual scholar.
Building International Academic Networks
NAI hosts researchers from across Africa and the Nordic countries. For Somali scholars, this creates opportunities to form collaborative relationships, co-author publications, participate in joint research projects, and raise the visibility of Somali academic contributions on the global stage.
Addressing Somalia's Development Challenges Through Research
NAI's five impact areas mirror Somalia's most critical development needs. Research on governance and federalism can inform Somalia's ongoing state-building process. Studies on climate resilience can address the devastating cycles of drought and flooding. Research on peace and security can contribute to conflict resolution and stabilisation efforts. Work on economic mobility can help shape policies for youth employment and diaspora engagement. Each fellowship represents an investment in evidence-based solutions to real Somali challenges.
Empowering Somali Women in Academia
With 70% of fellowships reserved for women, this programme directly addresses the gender gap in Somali academic research. Supporting Somali women scholars to produce high-quality, internationally recognised research helps shift narratives and build a more inclusive knowledge economy.
Diaspora and Continental Connections
Somali researchers working at universities across the African continent — in Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, South Africa, Egypt, and beyond — are also eligible. This strengthens the broader Somali academic community, regardless of where individual scholars are based.
Tips for a Strong Application
Based on the programme's criteria and the competitive nature of international fellowships, here are practical tips to improve your chances:
- Be specific about what you will do at NAI: Your work plan should clearly explain why NAI — with its library, seminars, and research environment — is the right place for your particular research activities.
- Connect your research to policy: NAI values research that contributes to both academic knowledge and practical development outcomes. Show how your work can inform policy or practice.
- Write in your own voice: Given the explicit warning about AI-generated text, ensure your proposal reflects your genuine scholarly perspective. Have colleagues review it, but the voice should be unmistakably yours.
- Clearly state your expected outputs: Whether it is a journal article, a thesis chapter, or a policy brief, define tangible deliverables for your residency.
- Obtain a strong support letter: A detailed letter from your supervisor that speaks to the quality of your research and the relevance of the NAI residency will strengthen your application significantly.
- Apply early: Do not wait until the deadline. Technical issues or missing documents can derail a last-minute submission.
Additional Resources for Somali Researchers
If you are interested in the NAI programme or similar opportunities, consider exploring these related resources:
- CODESRIA (Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa): Offers grants, fellowships, and publication opportunities for African social science researchers.
- African Academy of Sciences: Provides fellowships and grants for researchers across the continent.
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): Offers numerous scholarship programmes for African researchers and students.
- Swedish Institute Scholarships: Provides fully funded master's and PhD scholarships for students from developing countries, including Somalia.
- African Leadership University School of Wildlife Conservation: Offers opportunities for those working at the intersection of conservation and development.
Key Dates and Contact Information
- Application Deadline: 6 April 2026
- Residency Duration: 60-90 days during 2027
- Official Website: Nordic Africa Institute — African Scholarship Programme
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application Here
- Contact Email: nai@nai.uu.se
Source and Disclaimer
Official Source: All information in this article is based on the official programme page published by the Nordic Africa Institute at Uppsala University. Visit https://nai.uu.se/opportunities/scholarships/african-scholarship-programme.html for the most current details.
Disclaimer: SomaliFocus News provides this information for educational and informational purposes only. Programme details, eligibility criteria, and deadlines may change without notice. We strongly encourage all prospective applicants to verify all details on the official Nordic Africa Institute website and application portal before submitting their application. SomaliFocus News is not affiliated with the Nordic Africa Institute or Uppsala University.