The AI4D Africa Scholarship Program seeks to transform Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) research in Sub-Saharan Africa by empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Through funding provided by the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), IDRC, and the UK’s FCDO, this initiative enhances the capacity of doctoral students and Early Career Academics (ECAs) in the region while promoting equity and sustainable development.
Program Objectives
The scholarship focuses on:
- Supporting PhD students and ECAs conducting AI/ML research aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- It is ensuring equitable representation across Francophone, Anglophone, and Lusophone regions.
- We are prioritizing equity-seeking groups, with at least 50% of positions reserved for women.
- Promoting responsible AI through robust data collection and user-centric solutions.
Eligibility and Benefits
Category 1: PhD Students
This category supports PWDs already enrolled in PhD programs focusing on AI/ML.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Enrollment in a PhD program with coursework and research proposal completed.
- Supervisor support and relevant approvals for research.
- Commitment to developing sustainable AI solutions addressing social challenges.
Benefits:
- Scholarship up to $28,000 for tuition fees ($4,000) and research activities ($24,000).
- Funding duration: 24 months.
Category 2: Early Career Academics (ECAs)
This category targets PWDs with PhDs in AI/ML (awarded within the past five years) who can supervise MSc students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Proven capacity to create impactful AI solutions.
- Commitment to mentoring MSc students.
Benefits:
- Scholarship up to $41,500, covering:
- Research costs ($25,000).
- Infrastructure ($10,000).
- Travel ($2,500).
- Tuition for MSc students ($4,000).
- Funding duration: 24 months.
Additional Opportunities
The program offers comprehensive capacity-strengthening activities, including:
- Mentoring for scaling responsible AI solutions.
- Workshops on responsible data collection frameworks.
- AI policy development.
- A regional research and development conference after 24 months.
Why Apply?
- Financial Support: Cover academic and project-related expenses.
- Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with AI innovation hubs and peers.
- Mentorship: Gain guidance from AI ethics and scalability experts.
- Accessibility Tools: Access toolkits for responsible AI development.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be from eligible Sub-Saharan African countries, including but not limited to Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Uganda.
Key Dates
- Application Opens: November 5, 2024
- Webinars: November 27 and December 18, 2024 (3:00 PM EAT)
- Application Closes: January 5, 2025
Apply Now
Visit the Scholarship Application Page to explore detailed application procedures and submit your application.
For inquiries, contact us at lepsai@acts-net.org.
Join the AI4D Africa Scholarship Program and help drive inclusive innovation in AI and ML!
