About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The scholarship programme is being implemented in partnership with the Technical University of Denmark (DTU Aqua) and is supported through the SAFEL project. It aims to strengthen research capacity in aquatic food systems, aquaculture, watershed management, and environmental sustainability while developing highly skilled Ghanaian researchers.
Applications are open to qualified Ghanaian candidates, with the deadline set for 3 July 2026.
Scholarship Opportunities Available
The SAFEL Project is offering a total of six postgraduate scholarship positions across master’s and doctoral levels.
Available scholarships include:
Two PhD scholarships in Watershed Management
Two PhD scholarships in Aquaculture and Environment
Two MPhil scholarships in Watershed Management
Successful applicants are expected to begin their studies on 1 October 2026.
Eligibility Requirements for All Applicants
The scholarship programme is open exclusively to Ghanaian nationals currently residing in Ghana.
All applicants must:
Jobs
Be Ghanaian citizens residing in Ghana
Demonstrate proficiency in English
Show strong evidence of research dissemination, including publications in peer-reviewed journals
Have competence in the use of at least one statistical software package, which will be considered an added advantage
The organisers have also encouraged female candidates to apply as part of efforts to promote gender inclusion in research and higher education.
Requirements for PhD Applicants
Candidates applying for doctoral scholarships must meet additional academic and professional requirements.
Applicants must possess:
A Master’s degree in a field related to the proposed area of research
At least two years of laboratory or field experience relevant to the proposed research area
The ability to commit fully to four years of doctoral study and participation in project activities
The programme is intended for candidates capable of undertaking advanced research that contributes to sustainable aquatic food systems and environmental management.
Requirements for MPhil Applicants
Applicants seeking admission into the MPhil programme must satisfy the following criteria:
Hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Aquatic Sciences, Fisheries, Environmental Sciences, or a related discipline
Have at least one year of field or laboratory experience in a relevant research area
Commit to two years of full-time study and participation in project activities
The scholarship aims to equip early-career researchers with advanced scientific and practical skills in watershed management and related fields.
Application Documents Required
Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive application package that demonstrates both academic qualifications and research potential.
Required documents include:
A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
Two letters of reference, including one from an academic supervisor
Official academic transcripts and certificates
BSc certificate and transcript for MPhil applicants
BSc and Master’s certificates and transcripts for PhD applicants
A motivation letter of no more than two pages explaining:
Why the applicant wishes to pursue the programme
Why they are a suitable candidate for the scholarship
A two-page research concept note outlining:
Research justification
Objectives
Methodology
Expected research outcomes
The organisers noted that only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.
Colleges & Universities
Scholarship Award Conditions
The SAFEL Project clarified that scholarship awards are conditional upon successful admission into the relevant postgraduate programme at KNUST.
Applicants are therefore expected to satisfy both the scholarship requirements and the University’s admission criteria before receiving funding.
Research Partnership Supports Sustainable Development
The SAFEL Project brings together academic and international partners to promote sustainable aquatic food production, environmental conservation, and improved livelihoods through research and innovation.
The initiative is implemented through collaboration between:
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
DTU Aqua, Technical University of Denmark
DANIDA and other project partners
The programme seeks to strengthen scientific research while contributing to sustainable resource management and food security in Ghana and beyond.
Application Deadline
Interested applicants must submit their complete applications by 3 July 2026, ahead of the scholarship commencement date of 1 October 2026.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to prepare all required supporting documents early, as incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.
How to apply