Open Call: East African Community Scholarship Programme

Deadline: 10-Sep-26

The East African Community Scholarship Programme (EACSP) 2026/2027 offers fully funded Master’s scholarships at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) in Arusha, Tanzania. The scholarships are designed for academically talented but financially disadvantaged citizens of EAC Partner States other than Tanzania, with study opportunities in data science, environmental technology, innovation management, and embedded systems.

About the EAC Scholarship Programme

The East African Community Scholarship Programme is a regional postgraduate scholarship initiative funded by the Federal Republic of Germany through KfW and implemented by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).

The programme aims to strengthen:

- Regional integration within the East African Community. - Postgraduate education and research. - Leadership development. - Science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. - Equal access to higher education for financially disadvantaged students. For the 2026/2027 academic intake, NM-AIST in Arusha, Tanzania, is offering scholarships for four approved Master’s degree programmes. Master’s Programmes Covered Eligible applicants can seek admission and scholarship support for one of the following NM-AIST programmes: - Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence - Master of Science in Environmental Technology and Innovation - Master of Science in Innovation and Entrepreneurship Management - Master of Science in Embedded and Mobile Systems (EMoS) These programmes provide advanced training in areas relevant to digital transformation, environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, technological innovation, and regional development. Scholarship Benefits The EACSP provides comprehensive financial support to successful scholars.

The scholarship package includes:

- Full tuition fees, paid directly to NM-AIST. - One return economy-class air ticket between the scholar’s home country and Tanzania. - EUR 200 arrival allowance. - EUR 380 monthly stipend for accommodation, meals, and living expenses. - EUR 650 study materials allowance. - EUR 1,500 one-time study and research allowance. - Medical insurance coverage. - Visa or entry-pass fees, where applicable. - Participation in at least one leadership or regional networking event. The combination of tuition, living support, travel assistance, research funding, and medical insurance makes this a fully funded regional postgraduate scholarship opportunity. Who Is Eligible? The EAC Scholarship Programme is specifically designed for academically strong students who face financial constraints. Applicants must meet the following requirements: - Be a citizen of an EAC Partner State other than Tanzania. - Be under 35 years of age at the time of application. - Hold a Bachelor’s degree with at least Second-Class Upper Division or equivalent. - Apply for admission to one of the four approved Master’s programmes at NM-AIST. - Demonstrate financial need. - Meet the admission requirements of the selected NM-AIST programme. - Be willing to study in an EAC Partner State other than their country of citizenship. Priority Groups The programme places particular emphasis on inclusive access to postgraduate education.

Priority considerations include:

- Gender balance, with an objective of at least 50% female participation among beneficiaries. - Applicants with disabilities. - Students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. - Applicants from other disadvantaged groups. Eligible EAC Countries Applicants must be citizens of an EAC Partner State other than Tanzania. This means citizens of eligible EAC countries can apply to study at NM-AIST in Tanzania, provided they meet the scholarship and academic requirements. The requirement to study outside the applicant’s country of citizenship is an important feature of the programme and supports regional academic mobility and East African integration. Why This Scholarship Matters The EACSP is more than a tuition scholarship. It is designed to develop highly skilled professionals who can contribute to regional development and cooperation. The four supported fields are closely connected to emerging development priorities. Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Advanced data and AI skills can support digital transformation, evidence-based policymaking, research, business innovation, and technology development. Environmental Technology and Innovation Environmental technology can contribute to climate resilience, sustainable resource management, pollution reduction, and environmentally responsible economic development. Innovation and Entrepreneurship Management This programme supports entrepreneurial thinking, business development, innovation management, and the creation of solutions with economic and social value. Embedded and Mobile Systems Embedded and mobile technologies are important for digital infrastructure, smart systems, automation, communications, and technology-enabled services. Application Requirements Applicants must submit complete documentation demonstrating their academic qualifications, identity, financial circumstances, and readiness for postgraduate study.

Required documents include:

- Valid national identity card or passport. - Recent passport-size photograph. - Proof of application for admission to NM-AIST. - Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts. - Curriculum vitae (CV). - Academic and professional reference letters. - Evidence demonstrating financial need. - Any other documents required by the scholarship or admission process. Applicants should ensure that academic documents are properly certified and that all required information is provided. Incomplete applications will not be considered. How to Apply Applicants should approach the application process in two connected stages: applying for admission to NM-AIST and completing the scholarship application.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before applying, check that you