Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Research Fellowship in Japan
Are you an African scholar or researcher looking to deepen your academic experience in Japan? The Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026, jointly offered by the Canon Foundation in Europe (CFE) and Kyoto University, provides a fully funded opportunity to conduct groundbreaking research in African Studies or related fields. This exchange program fosters academic collaboration between African institutions and Kyoto University by offering generous financial support and cross-continental research experience.
This article provides a complete guide to the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship — including eligibility, benefits, required documents, and how to apply step by step.
Overview of the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship
- Host Institution: Kyoto University, Japan
- Sponsor: Canon Foundation in Europe
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarship | Research Fellowship
- Eligible Applicants: Scholars from Africa and Kyoto University
- Eligible Regions: All African countries
- Award Value: Up to €27,500 per year (including travel and living costs)
- Deadline: September 15, 2025
- Study Location: Japan or African partner institution
About the Scholarship
The Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship Program is designed to support two groups of researchers:
- African scholars affiliated with Kyoto University’s partner institutions who wish to carry out research in Japan.
- Scholars at Kyoto University who wish to pursue academic research within African partner institutions.
This collaborative program supports research in areas related to African Studies, development, science, technology, humanities, and more.
The Canon Foundation, established in 1987 under Dutch law, is committed to promoting cultural and scientific collaboration between Europe and Japan. With this joint program, the foundation extends its global footprint to support African researchers.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the Japan Africa Exchange Program will receive:
- Annual Grant: Between €22,500 and €27,500 (pro-rated depending on the length of stay)
- Travel Allowance: Covers round-trip airfare
- Living Stipend: Monthly funding for accommodation, food, and research costs
- Research Support: Access to Kyoto University facilities or partner institutions in Africa
All financial disbursements are managed directly by the Canon Foundation, with detailed instructions provided to awardees upon selection.
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Canon Foundation-Kyoto University Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Hold a minimum of a Master’s degree (MA) at the time of application
- Be employed at Kyoto University or one of its African partner institutions as a postdoctoral fellow or faculty member
- Submit two recommendation letters, one of which must come from the proposed research host
- Demonstrate an existing academic or institutional partnership with Kyoto University
Required Documents
Applicants are required to email the following documents to Kyoto University Africa Unit at:
africaunit@kura.kyoto-u.ac.jp
- Research Proposal (max 2 pages) — Including topic, objectives, timeline, and estimated budget
- Two Reference Letters — One academic reference and one from your proposed host
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Copy of Highest Academic Degree Certificate
- Passport Photograph
- List of Academic Publications or Professional Achievements
Each document must be clearly labeled and compiled for ease of review by the selection committee.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a quick guide to apply for the Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026:
- Prepare All Required Documents
- Submit Your Application via email to:
- Wait for Review by the Canon Foundation Selection Committee
- Notification of Results will be sent directly to successful applicants via email
Click Here to Visit the Official Application Page
Application Deadline
September 15, 2025
Apply early to allow time for document review and references.
Final Note
The Canon Foundation & Kyoto University Japan Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for African researchers to collaborate with one of Asia’s most prestigious universities. If you’re passionate about research and ready to make global academic connections, this scholarship is for you.
