$ARISE 2026 Fellowship Applications Are Now Live Across Africa

Good morning Africa! We’ve got news for you today that could change lives. If you’ve been doing under-the-radar research in your university lab or wherever you dey do am, wondering when the world will finally notice your brainpower, your time has come!

The ARISE Project (Advancing Responsible and Gender-Inclusive AI Capacity in Africa) has just officially thrown open its doors, and they are looking for 16 elite African researchers to lead the continent’s AI revolution.

The Headline Details

This isn’t just a certificate of participation. This is a heavy-duty investment into the people who will build Africa’s digital future. The project, backed by the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), is targeting two specific groups:

• The Postdoctoral Fellows (6 Slots): For those who have finished their PhD within the last five years and are ready to turn their thesis into real-world impact.

• The PhD Scholars (10 Slots): For those currently enrolled in an African university who need that extra financial ginger and world-class mentorship to finish their research.

What’s at Stake?

This news update confirms that the funding isn't just for theory. They want AI solutions that solve the real headaches we face every day in Africa. If your research touches any of these sectors, you are in the running:

• Agri-Tech: Fixing food security so hunger becomes a thing of the past.

• Climate Action: Finding ways to cool down our cities and manage our energy better.

• Health & Education: Using AI to make sure a child in a village gets the same quality of learning and care as a child in the city.

• Creative Economy: Making sure our music, film, and art stay ahead of the curve.

The Jara (Extra): What’s In It For You?

Let’s talk about the part everyone likes. They know you can’t think on an empty stomach or run high-level AI simulations with thoughts and prayers. If you are selected, here is the package:

• Living Stipends: Yes oh! You get a monthly allowance to keep you focused on your research so you don't have to hustle elsewhere.

• Full Research Funding: They will cover every one of your research expenses. Boya na data collection oh, abi na software, them dey for you!

• Tuition Support: For the PhD scholars, there is partial funding to help clear those university fees.

• Global Exposure: They are paying for you to attend international AI conferences and workshops. You go travel, you go see world!

• Heavyweight Mentorship: You’ll be linked up with global AI experts who will guide you so you don't make rookie mistakes.

The Conditions (Read Carefully!)

You can't just show up with a Good Morning message (obviously). The requirements are clear:

1. Nationality: You must be an African citizen or permanent resident.

2. Location: Your research must be based in an African institution.

3. Focus: There is a massive emphasis on Gender-Inclusive AI. They want to make sure the tech we build doesn't leave our sisters, mothers, and daughters behind.

Important Deadlines (Ji, Ma Sun!)

If you want to be part of this 2026 cohort, you need to mark your calendar before your village people make you forget:

• Postdoc Application Deadline: March 31, 2026.

• PhD Scholarship Deadline: March 15, 2026.

Need More Clarification? (How to Reach Them)

If e never clear for your eye, and you have questions about the application process, go straight to the source!

The ARISE Project Coordinator is ready to answer you. You can send them a polite email at:

• Email: [email protected]

• Important: Make sure you CC (copy) the big boss too: [email protected]

Pro Tip: When you’re emailing these people, be professional. Don’t go and write "Hi" or "How far." Use a proper subject line like "Inquiry: ARISE 2026 PhD Scholarship Application" so they take you seriously from the jump!

KINI BIG DEAL (Why Does this matter)

This is a call to all my efiko brothers and sisters in the academia: Don't let this one pass you by. Stop complaining that there’s no funding for African research. The money is on the table now, and the mentorship is waiting. The question is: Are you ready to lead?

Stay Curious. Stay Ahead.