Call for Applications: Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme Grant

The Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme is an EU-funded initiative aimed at enhancing learning mobility across African higher education institutions (HEIs). It seeks to support socio-economic development by strengthening the role of higher education in Africa. This opportunity is part of the Global Gateway Africa-Europe Investment Package. Applications open on 3 November 2026 and close on 2 February 2027. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: European Union under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI)

- Opportunity Type: Unit Grants for Academic Mobility

- Funding Amount: EUR 24,750,000 total budget for 2026

- Eligible Applicants: Consortia of Sub-Saharan African HEIs with EU technical partners

- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African regions (East and Central Africa, Southern Africa and Indian Ocean, Western Africa) and EU member states

- Deadline: 2 February 2027, 17:00 Brussels time

- Project Duration: Not specified in the source

About the Opportunity

The Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme aims to increase skills and qualifications across Africa by promoting learning mobility and partnerships between African and EU HEIs. The scheme focuses on sectors prioritized by the Global Gateway, including Climate and Energy, Digital, Transport, and Health. It encourages regional integration, skills circulation, and enhances the employability of students and trainees through quality education. Funding and Benefits - The scheme supports mobility projects within Sub-Saharan Africa, involving exchanges of students, trainees, and staff. - Grants are awarded to consortia of 5 to 7 HEIs, with funding subject to the available budget. - Projects should address up to two Global Gateway priorities relevant to the participating countries. Who Is Eligible? - Consortia must include a minimum of four and a maximum of six HEIs from eligible Sub-Saharan African countries. - Each consortium must have one EU HEI as a technical partner. - The coordinating applicant must be a Sub-Saharan African HEI. - Proposals should involve at least three different eligible countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, representing at least two of the three eligible regions. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - The scheme supports academic mobility in sectors aligned with Global Gateway priorities. - Eligible activities include skills development, knowledge transfer, and the establishment of HEI-business partnerships. Why This Opportunity Matters The scheme is crucial for fostering cooperation in higher education and skills development in Africa. It aims to enhance regional harmonization in education, increase the employability of graduates, and contribute to a knowledge-based economy, aligning with Africa’s Agenda 2063. How to Apply - Form a consortium of 5 to 7 eligible HEIs. - Prepare a proposal addressing the call’s objectives and Global Gateway priorities. - Submit the proposal through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal by 2 February 2027, 17:00 Brussels time. - Adhere to the proposal page limit of 70 pages as specified in the call document. Application Tips or Common Mistakes - Ensure the proposal clearly demonstrates how it addresses critical needs and gaps. - Align proposals with relevant Global Gateway priorities and provide evidence of added value. - Avoid exceeding the 70-page limit for the proposal. Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for the Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme? Consortia of Sub-Saharan African HEIs with EU partners can apply. What is the deadline for application submission? The deadline is 2 February 2027, 17:00 Brussels time. What sectors are prioritized in the Global Gateway initiative? Climate and Energy, Digital, Transport, and Health. What is the expected impact of this mobility scheme? Improved quality and internationalization of higher education, enhanced employability, and increased regional cooperation. Where can I find detailed application instructions? Consult the official call document and the EU Funding & Tenders Portal for comprehensive guidance. Next Steps Eligible applicants should carefully review the official call document and guidelines on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal and prepare their proposals in accordance with the specified requirements.