About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Canon Foundation in Europe has officially opened applications for its prestigious Japan-Africa Programme, offering research fellowships to postgraduate scholars from Japan and Africa for the 2027 academic cycle.
The initiative aims to strengthen scientific collaboration, academic exchange, and development-focused research between African and Japanese institutions.
The programme, which is part of the foundation’s wider international research fellowship portfolio, supports scholars conducting African Studies research either in Africa or Japan. Applications for the fellowship programme will remain open until 15 September 2026.
Supporting Academic Collaboration Between Japan and Africa
The Japan-Africa Programme was established to promote bilateral knowledge exchange and long-term academic cooperation between universities and research institutes across the two regions.
Under the programme:
Researchers from Japan are supported to conduct research at African universities and institutes.
Researchers from Africa are funded to undertake research at Japanese universities and academic institutions.
Projects focusing on scientific innovation, development, and people-to-people cooperation are given priority.
The initiative seeks to encourage sustainable partnerships that contribute to Africa’s social and economic development.
According to the foundation, the fellowship programme places strong emphasis on research that builds practical solutions through international collaboration and scholarly engagement.
Fellowship Duration and Funding Opportunities
Successful applicants selected for the 2027 fellowship intake will receive financial support for research placements ranging from six to eight weeks up to one full year.
Key fellowship details include:
Fellowships may last between a minimum of 6–8 weeks and a maximum of one year.
Scholars are allowed to split their research period abroad into multiple phases if necessary.
Financial support ranges between €22,500 and €27,500 annually.
Funding is adjusted proportionally depending on the length of the research stay.
The Canon Foundation noted that the fellowship grants are intended to assist with travel, accommodation, living expenses, and academic research activities during the exchange period.
Focus on Development Through Scientific Research
The programme specifically prioritises research proposals that encourage development in Africa through science, innovation, and collaborative learning.
Priority research themes include:
Scientific and technological advancement.
Cross-cultural academic exchange.
Sustainable development initiatives.
Educational and institutional partnerships.
Community-driven research projects.
By supporting direct collaboration between Japanese and African researchers, the programme aims to create stronger academic networks while fostering practical solutions to developmental challenges.
Growing Importance of International Research Partnerships
International fellowship programmes such as the Japan-Africa Programme continue to gain global significance as universities and research institutions increasingly seek cross-border collaborations.
Education experts say initiatives like this help:
Strengthen global academic diplomacy.
Increase research capacity in emerging economies.
Promote cultural understanding and professional networking.
Encourage innovation through shared expertise.
Support young scholars pursuing international exposure.
The Canon Foundation in Europe has positioned itself as one of the leading organisations promoting research mobility between Europe, Japan, and Africa through various fellowship schemes and co-sponsored academic programmes.
Application Process and Eligibility
Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare their proposals early ahead of the September 2026 deadline.
Applicants are generally expected to:
Be postgraduate researchers or highly qualified scholars.
Secure affiliation with a host university or research institute.
Present a detailed research proposal aligned with the programme objectives.
Demonstrate the academic value and developmental impact of their work.
The foundation advises applicants to carefully review all fellowship guidelines and supporting documentation before submission.
Canon Foundation’s Broader Fellowship Mission
Beyond the Japan-Africa Programme, the Canon Foundation in Europe also offers broader research fellowships supporting academic exchange between Europe and Japan.
The organisation provides:
Research fellowships lasting from three months up to one year.
Co-sponsored research opportunities.
Regional fellow meetings and networking activities.
Access to an international fellowship alumni network.
The foundation continues to expand its global academic footprint through partnerships that encourage innovation, education, and intercultural collaboration.
Contact Information for Applicants
Researchers seeking additional information regarding the Japan-Africa Programme can contact programme coordinator Suzy Cohen through the Canon Foundation in Europe.
Important application information includes:
Application Deadline: 15 September 2026.
Fellowship Period: 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2027.
Funding Range: €22,500–€27,500 per year.
Research Duration: 6–8 weeks up to one year.
How to apply