Artificial Intelligence for Development in Africa (AI4D) Scholarships 2025: Empowering PhD Students in AI and ML

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are reshaping industries worldwide, and Africa is no exception.

With the increasing demand for innovative solutions to address societal challenges, the AI4D Africa Scholarships 2025 offer a transformative opportunity for PhD students and Early Career Academics (ECAs) in Sub-Saharan Africa.

This initiative aims to foster responsible AI research while promoting inclusivity, diversity, and sustainable development.

Opportunity Summary

• Scholarship Name: AI4D Africa Scholarships 2025
• Focus Areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
• Eligibility: Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) from eligible Sub-Saharan African countries
• Funding Partners: African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), International Development Research Centre (IDRC), UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
• Application Deadline: January 5, 2025
• Funding Categories:PhD Students: Up to $28,000
• Early Career Academics (ECAs): Up to $41,500
• Application Link: Click here to Apply

About the Scholarship

The AI4D Africa Scholarship Program is designed to empower individuals with disabilities by providing financial support and resources to advance their careers in AI and ML.

This program not only addresses the underrepresentation of marginalized groups in technology but also seeks to align AI research with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Objectives

1. Promote inclusivity and diversity in AI/ML research.
2. Support solution-driven projects that tackle real-world challenges.
3. Enhance equity across Francophone, Anglophone, and Lusophone regions.
4. Build institutional capacity for postgraduate training in AI/ML within African universities.

Courses Available

The scholarship supports PhD research in various AI/ML fields, including:

• Natural Language Processing
• Intelligent Robotics
• Expert Systems
• Machine Learning Algorithms
• Responsible AI Development

Additionally, ECAs are encouraged to mentor MSc students while conducting impactful research.

Eligibility Criteria

Category 1: PhD Students

To qualify:

• Must be a registered PhD student focusing on AI/ML.
• Completed coursework and received approval for a research proposal.
• Supervisor endorsement required.
• Must be a Person with Disability (PWD) with official documentation.
• Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an eligible Sub-Saharan African country.

Category 2: Early Career Academics (ECAs)

To qualify:

• Must hold a PhD in AI/ML obtained within the last five years.
• Demonstrated ability to supervise MSc students.
• Proven capacity to develop sustainable AI solutions addressing societal challenges.
• Must be a PWD with official documentation.

Citizen or permanent resident of an eligible Sub-Saharan African country.

Who Should Apply?

This scholarship is ideal for:

1. Individuals passionate about using AI/ML to address social issues such as healthcare access, climate change, education inequality, or economic development.
2. Researchers committed to advancing responsible AI practices that prioritize user-centric solutions.
3. Persons with Disabilities seeking opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the field of technology.

Benefits

The program offers comprehensive support tailored to each category:

Category 1: PhD Students

• Tuition fees: Up to $4,000 for two years.
• Research activities: Up to $24,000 over 24 months.
• Mentorship from leading experts in responsible AI.

Category 2: Early Career Academics (ECAs)

• Research funding: Up to $25,000 for impactful projects.
• Infrastructure support: Up to $10,000 for tools and resources.
• Travel costs: Up to $2,500 for conferences or fieldwork.
• Tuition fees for MSc students under supervision: Up to $4,000 ($2,000 per student).

Additional Benefits:

1. Access to workshops on ethical data collection and responsible AI practices.
2. Participation in regional conferences and networking events with peers across Africa.
3. Collaboration opportunities with top universities and innovation hubs.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Visit the official Scholarship Application Page.

• Prepare the required documents:Proof of PhD enrollment or recent PhD completion (for ECAs).
• Research proposal approval letter.
• Supervisor’s endorsement letter.
• PWD registration certificate or equivalent documentation.
• Evidence of citizenship or permanent residency in an eligible country.

1. Complete the online application form by January 5, 2025.

For inquiries or assistance during the application process, email: [email protected].

Deadline

The application period closes on January 5, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity.

Apply Now!

Disclaimer

This article provides an overview of the AI4D Africa Scholarships based on publicly available information. Applicants are encouraged to visit the official scholarship page for detailed guidelines and updates.

Conclusion

By applying for this program, you can contribute toward building a more inclusive future where technology empowers everyone.

Take this chance to advance your career in Artificial Intelligence while addressing critical societal challenges!

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