Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Fellowship

Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026 (Canon Foundation & Kyoto University) | Fully Funded Fellowship for African Researchers

The Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026, jointly offered by the Canon Foundation in Europe and Kyoto University, is now accepting applications from outstanding African researchers. This fully funded postgraduate fellowship supports research focused on African Studies, offering a unique opportunity for African scholars to conduct academic work in Japan or for Kyoto University researchers to carry out studies in Africa.

The scholarship provides up to €27,500 per year to cover living expenses, research costs, and international travel. It is part of an initiative to foster academic exchange between Africa and Japan through collaborative research and cultural engagement.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Japan
• Institution: Kyoto University
• Funding Organization: Canon Foundation in Europe
• Level of Study: Postdoctoral | Faculty Research
• Eligible Applicants: Citizens of African countries
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded Fellowship
• Scholarship Value: €22,500 – €27,500 per year
• Deadline: September 15, 2025

Scholarship Overview

The Canon Foundation Kyoto University Africa Fellowship supports two categories of applicants:

1. African scholars from Kyoto University’s partner institutions conducting research in Japan.
2. Researchers at Kyoto University traveling to African institutions for academic work. 

The Canon Foundation, established in 1987, promotes international cultural and scientific relations, especially between Europe, Japan, and Africa. This fellowship aligns with its mission to strengthen academic collaboration and global understanding.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026, applicants must:

• Hold at least a Master’s degree (MA or higher).
• Be employed as a postdoctoral fellow or faculty member at Kyoto University or one of its partner institutions in Africa.
• Provide two reference letters, one from their home institution and one from their prospective host at Kyoto University.
• Demonstrate an existing research partnership or affiliation with Kyoto University. 

For a list of Kyoto University’s global partner institutions, visit their Global Engagement website.

Duration and Benefits

• The fellowship is offered for varying durations, with financial support ranging from €22,500 to €27,500 per year.
• Covers living stipend, travel expenses, and partial research costs.
• Payments will be administered directly by the Canon Foundation. 

Required Documents

Applicants must email the following to africaunit@kura.kyoto-u.ac.jp:

1. Detailed research proposal (max 2 pages) with a cost estimate
2. Two reference letters (max 1 page each)
3. Curriculum Vitae
4. Copy of PhD or highest academic degree
5. Passport-sized photograph
6. List of academic publications or professional achievements

Want to apply for a UNICEF Internship Program 2025? Check the UNICEF Internship Program 2025.

How to Apply

1. Prepare all required documents.
2. Email your complete application to: canon_caas@jambo.africa.kyoto-u.ac.jp
3. Wait for selection results from the Canon Foundation’s review committee. 

For inquiries, contact Kyoto University Africa Unit via africaunit@kura.kyoto-u.ac.jp.

Click here to apply for the Canon Foundation Kyoto University Scholarship