Description of Mawaoza PhD Scholars Program:

The goal of this programme is to build a strong pipeline of future researchers who are prepared to ask insightful questions about African development, and effectively communicate their results to both government and industry leaders and the general public.  We welcome applications from women in any academic discipline, with a preference for research projects focused on development-related topics, and using social science research methods. Mawazo PhD Scholars are expected to achieve the following goals during their fellowship year:

Make substantial progress in collecting data for and/or writing up their current research projectDevelop a plan for identifying suitable journals and submitting their article for publication once it’s completeIdentify outside research grants or post-docs, and submit at least two grant applicationsParticipate in at least one academic conferenceRegularly attend training sessions and networking events in Nairobi (travel funding is available for Scholars who are based outside Nairobi)Publicise their work by speaking at public lectures arranged by Mawazo, writing blog posts and op-eds, and (if possible) making radio or TV appearances

Level:

PhD

Field of Study:

Any field of study, at the PhD level

Institution:

Mawaoza Institute

Benefits of Mawaoza PhD Scholars Program : 

Mawazo PhD Scholars receive the following benefits:

A research grant worth Ksh 500,000 on average (precise value will vary depending on the amount needed for each Scholar’s research)Training in research methods, academic writing, grant writing, public engagement, and the publication processResearch and editorial support from the Mawazo staffTravel grants for participation in regional or international conferencesConnections to mentors, and industry and government leaders, in their fieldA dedicated desk at Mawazo’s office at Ikigai, Spring Valley, Nairobi

Country of Study:

Kenya

Eligible Countries:

Citizens from any African country

Eligibility: 

You should apply for the Mawazo PhD Scholars programme if you are:

A woman under the age of 40 as of Ist January 2022.A citizen of an African countryEnrolled in a PhD program at a Kenyan university, in any departmentWorking on or about to begin working on an academic research project which is related to African development, and which is intended for publicationPredominantly using social science research methods, rather than carrying out lab-based research.  (“Social science research methods” include archival research, interviews, surveys, quantitative analysis, machine learning, etc.   We draw this distinction for purely logistical reasons, as Mawazo is not equipped to support laboratory research)Currently living in Kenya, or otherwise able to travel to Nairobi at least two times per month.

How to Apply for Mawaoza PhD Scholars Program:

The application for the 2022 PhD Scholars cohort runs from October to November. All applications must be submitted through the online portal.

Application Deadline:

The deadline falls within November of the application year. Visit Program Webpage for Details  Important Notes: Applications are only accepted through our online portal