INTRODUCTION
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
HOW TO APPLY
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.