The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and the Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) are pleased to invite interested and qualified Africans to apply for the 2026 SHOU Scholarship Programmes.
The aim of the scholarship programs is to strengthen Africa’s institutional and technical capacity in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and marine science and resource management in alignment with the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033).
SHOU is a world-class, globally recognized, research-oriented university specializing in marine science, aquaculture, and ocean governance. It collaborates with over 40 international institutions and global organizations, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable aquatic development and food systems.
SCHOLARSHIP COVERAGE
For all successful candidates, the scholarships will cover:
- Full tuition, accommodation, meals, and monthly stipends.
- Access to world-class faculty and state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Specialized professional training in marine and aquatic sciences.
Note: Successful candidates will be responsible for flight tickets and visa fees.
The AfDB and SHOU invite qualified candidates from across Africa to seize this unique opportunity to advance their expertise and contribute to the continent’s blue economy transformation.
TYPES OF SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED
Graduate Programs: Masters and Ph.D
| College | Program / Major | Master’s | Ph.D. |
| Aquaculture | ✔ | ✔ |
| Biology (Aquatic Biology) | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Fishing Science | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fishery Resources | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Marine Science | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Marine Science | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fishery Economics and Management | ✔ | ✔ |
| Applied Economics (Chinese) | ✔ | ✖ | |
| Food Science and Engineering | ✔ | ✔ |
| Mechanical Engineering | ✔ | ✖ |
| Electronic Information Engineering (Chinese) | ✔ | ✖ | |
| Marine Science – Marine Engineering and Information | ✖ | ✔ |
SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
| Program | Program Duration | Program Description |
| Marine cultivation and fisheries Internationals | 3-week | Intensive academic and cultural immersion program |
CONTENT STRUCTURE
The program combines:
- Lectures and seminars led by renowned SHOU professors
- Laboratory practice and technical training
- Research-based discussions and group presentations
- Experiential Learning through field visits to major aquaculture sites, cultural activities and city tours.
OUTCOMES
By the end of the program, participants will have:
- A solid understanding of China’s modern aquaculture systems
- Hands-on skills in aquatic organism observation, environmental sampling, and hatchery operations
- Enhanced cross-cultural communication and teamwork abilities
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Masters Program
- Be a national of the AfDB’s Regional Member Country (RMC) with experience in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in related field, or any field, with interest to pursue a career in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- English proficiency, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80.
- Be under 35 years old at the time of application
- Outstanding academic performance (e.g., GPA ≥3.0)
Ph.D. Program
- Be a national of the AfDB’s Regional Member Countries RMCs) with experience in the fisheries or blue economy sector
- Hold a Master’s degree in Marine Science, Aquaculture, Economics, Environmental Policy, Development Studies, or a related field
- English proficiency, with a minimum score of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80
- Had research experience and published at least 1 paper
- Strong analytical, research, and policy development skills
- Possess excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with experience in multicultural environments
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit an online application through: 2026 AfDB–Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) Scholarship
IMPORTANT NOTICE
- Complete online application form and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for next steps.
- Successful applicants must comply with all SHOU rules, regulations, and codes of conduct.
- This fellowship does not confer employment status with the African Development Bank Group.
- To apply for this position, you need to be national of one of AfDB member countries.
If you are not currently working at the African Development Bank, or if you are a Short Term Staff (STS), a Technical Assistant or a Consultant at the Bank, click on the button below to apply for the position.
To apply for this position, you need to be national of one of AfDB member countries.
Applicants who fully meet the Bank’s requirements and are considered for further assessment will be contacted. Applicants should submit a concise Curriculum Vitae (CV) and any additional documents that may be stated as required. The President of the African Development Bank reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level. The African Development Bank is an equal opportunities employer. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. https://www.afdb.org
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) does not ask for payments of any kind from applicants throughout the recruitment process (job application, CV review, interview meeting, and final processing of applications). In addition, the Bank does not request information on applicants’ bank accounts. The African Development Bank Group declines all responsibility for the fraudulent publications of job offers in its name or, in general, for the fraudulent use of its name in any way whatsoever .
“Please note that the Bank does not accept dual nationality. Therefore, you are required to declare the nationality you would like to be considered by the Bank throughout your career, if hired. Please upload supporting Government issued IDs such as passport, National Identity Card or Certificate etc.”
