Application Deadline: 10 December 2026
Apply Today for the AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University 2026 SHOU Scholarship Opportunities for Eligible African Candidates
Program Overview
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB), in partnership with Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU), is excited to announce the 2026 scholarship initiative aimed at nurturing African talent. This program invites qualified nationals from Africa to apply for the 2026 SHOU Scholarship Programmes.
Aligned with the Bank Group’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033), this scholarship drive is a strategic investment to cultivate a new cadre of African specialists. These experts will play a pivotal role in strengthening the continent’s institutional capacity and technical expertise in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resource management.
Shanghai Ocean University is internationally acclaimed as a leading research university focused on marine sciences, aquaculture, and ocean governance. With its extensive collaborations involving more than 40 global institutions and organizations, SHOU continues to lead advancements in sustainable aquatic development and food system innovations.
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) stands as Africa’s foremost multilateral development finance institution, committed to fostering sustainable economic growth and social progress continent-wide.
Study Location
The scholarship recipients will be based at Shanghai Ocean University in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China.
Available Scholarship Programs
- Summer School Programs
- Graduate Programs: Master’s and Ph.D. degrees
Eligible Colleges and Courses
| College | Program / Major | Master’s | Ph.D. |
|---|---|---|---|
| College of Fisheries and Life Science | Aquaculture | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Fisheries and Life Science | Biology (Aquatic Biology) | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Marine Living Resource Science and Management | Fishing Science | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Marine Living Resource Science and Management | Fishery Resources | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Marine Living Resource Science and Management | Marine Science | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Oceanography and Ecological Science | Marine Science | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Oceanography and Ecological Science | Fishery Economics and Management | ✔✔ | ✔✔ |
| College of Economics and Management | Applied Economics (Chinese) | ✔ | ✖ |
| College of Food Science and Technology | Food Science and Engineering | ✔ | ✔ |
| College of Engineering, Science and Technology | Mechanical Engineering | ✔ | ✖ |
| College of Engineering, Science and Technology | Electronic Information Engineering (Chinese) | ✔ | ✖ |
| College of Engineering, Science and Technology | Marine Science – Marine Engineering and Information | ✖ | ✔ |
Summer School Program Details
This is an intensive 3-week academic and cultural immersion program focusing on marine cultivation and fisheries, open to international students.
Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Master’s Degree Applicants
- Must be nationals of AfDB’s Regional Member Countries (RMCs) with experience or interest in fisheries or the blue economy sectors.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant or any field with a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in fisheries or the blue economy.
- English language proficiency is mandatory, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 80.
- Applicants must be under 35 years of age at the time of application.
- Academic excellence demonstrated by a GPA of 3.0 or higher (or equivalent).
Ph.D. Degree Applicants
- Applicants must be nationals of AfDB’s Regional Member Countries (RMCs) with relevant experience in fisheries or blue economy sectors.
- Must possess a Master’s degree in Marine Science, Aquaculture, Environmental Policy, Economics, Development Studies, or a related discipline.
- English proficiency with at least IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- Research experience is essential, including at least one published academic paper.
- Strong skills in analysis, research, and policy development.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with prior experience working in a multicultural setting.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected recipients will receive:
- Full coverage of tuition fees.
- Accommodation and meal allowances.
- A monthly stipend to support living expenses.
- Access to internationally renowned faculty members and cutting-edge research facilities.
- Specialized professional training in marine and aquatic sciences.
Note: Scholarship winners will be responsible for covering their own visa fees and travel expenses, including flight tickets.
How to Apply
The AfDB and Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) strongly encourage qualified candidates from across Africa to apply and take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to deepen their expertise and make a meaningful contribution to Africa’s blue economy.
Applications must be submitted online using this link: 2026 AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) Scholarship
For detailed information regarding the scholarship options, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, please download the brochure here.
Additional Important Information
- Only candidates shortlisted for the next stages of selection will be contacted.
- All successful applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 80.
- Recipients are expected to adhere strictly to all rules, regulations, and codes of conduct set forth by SHOU.
- This scholarship program does not confer employment status with the African Development Bank Group.