Application deadline: 7 November 2026
Programme: UKUDLA Master’s Research Scholarships
Target group: African candidates – Cohort 3
Field: Sustainable and resilient food systems, agricultural research and applied agricultural data science
About UKUDLA
The African-German Centre for Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems and Applied Agricultural and Food Data Science (UKUDLA) invites eligible African candidates to apply for its Cohort 3 Master’s scholarship opportunities.
UKUDLA is a collaborative academic and research initiative focused on strengthening sustainable food systems, improving agricultural resilience and advancing the use of data science in agriculture. Through partnerships between African and German universities, the programme supports research, innovation and capacity development to address pressing challenges affecting food production, agricultural sustainability and food security.
The scholarship opportunity is intended for candidates seeking to advance their academic and research careers while contributing to the development of resilient and sustainable agricultural systems in Africa.
Research Focus and Objectives
UKUDLA promotes research that strengthens food systems and supports evidence-based agricultural development. Its key areas of interest include sustainable food production, climate resilience, agricultural innovation and the application of data science to agricultural challenges.
Applicants are encouraged to consult the official research topics and programme information document to identify suitable research areas and ensure that their proposed studies align with the objectives of the centre.
The programme provides an opportunity for aspiring researchers to contribute to solutions that improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and support sustainable development across African communities.
Participating Universities
The UKUDLA consortium brings together five partner institutions:
- University of Hohenheim, Germany.
- University of the Western Cape (UWC), South Africa.
- University of Pretoria (UP), South Africa.
- University of Mpumalanga, South Africa.
- Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), Malawi.
These institutions collaborate to promote academic exchange, research excellence and interdisciplinary approaches to sustainable food systems and agricultural data science.
Scholarship Benefits and Study Arrangements
The scholarship programme supports postgraduate research within UKUDLA’s academic and institutional framework. Applicants should consult the official information document for details regarding scholarship benefits, the place of study, funding arrangements and any additional conditions applicable to the third cohort.
Candidates should also review the provisions governing scholarship payments, the duration of funding and the requirements for continuation of financial support.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
The call is directed at African candidates applying for the third cohort of UKUDLA Master’s scholarships. Prospective applicants should carefully review the official application guidelines to establish their eligibility and identify all required supporting documents.
Applicants are expected to prepare a research proposal that aligns with the programme’s identified research priorities. The proposal should demonstrate a clear research focus, relevance to sustainable and resilient food systems, and potential to contribute to agricultural development or applied agricultural data science.
Candidates should ensure that all application forms are completed accurately and that the required documentation is submitted in accordance with the programme instructions.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should follow the official UKUDLA application process and complete the designated application form. The research proposal should be prepared using the prescribed Master’s research project proposal form.
The following resources are available through the UKUDLA announcement:
- Master’s research project proposal form: UKUDLA Master’s research project proposal form.
- Programme information: Information Document – Master’s African Cohort 3.
- Online application: Application form available through the official UKUDLA website.
Applicants are advised to read the information document carefully before submitting their applications to ensure compliance with all requirements and procedures.
Selection Process and Funding
Applications will be assessed through the programme’s established selection procedure for Master’s candidates. Applicants should consult the official guidelines for information about the assessment criteria, selection arrangements and funding conditions.
Successful candidates will be subject to the scholarship’s applicable payment arrangements, duration requirements and continuation conditions.
Application Deadline and Enquiries
The closing date for applications from African candidates under Cohort 3 is 7 November 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to complete their submissions before the deadline and verify that all required information has been provided.
For further information or clarification, applicants may contact the UKUDLA Graduate Centre at ukudlagradcentre@uwc.ac.za.
Take the Next Step
The UKUDLA Master’s scholarship opportunity offers prospective postgraduate researchers a pathway to contribute to sustainable food systems, agricultural resilience and data-driven agricultural innovation. Eligible African candidates with relevant research interests are encouraged to review the official documentation and submit their applications before the closing date.
