AFDB Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program 2025/2026: Fully Funded Study in Japan for Africans

The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) is a capacity-building program by the African Development Bank and the Government of Japan. The program offers high-achieving African students a two-year scholarship opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at the master’s level in energy, agriculture, health, environmental sustainability, and engineering.

The scholarship is open to applicants from regional member countries of the African Development Bank, with relevant educational and professional experience and a track record of supporting their countries’ development efforts. Upon completion of their studies, the scholars are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to national and continental socio-economic development, using the newly acquired knowledge and skills.

When is the Application Deadline:

• For April 2026 enrollment: September 16, 2025
• For September 2026 enrollment: November 12, 2025 or January 9, 2026

Tell Me About The Award:

The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program is a fully funded capacity-building initiative by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan. It aims to equip high-achieving African students with master’s-level education in critical fields aligned with AfDB’s “High 5” strategic priorities: Feed Africa, Light up and power Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve quality of life.

Which Fields are Eligible?Energy

• Agriculture
• Health
• Environmental sustainability
• Engineering

Type:

Fully funded master’s scholarship.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be citizens of African Development Bank’s regional member countries.
• Be 35 years old or younger, in good health.
• Have excellent academic records and relevant professional experience in eligible fields.
• Have at least 1 year of paid employment after obtaining a Bachelor’s degree within the past 3 years.
• Be admitted to an approved master’s program at a Japanese or African partner university.
• Not already be enrolled in another graduate degree program.
• Not be AfDB staff, Executive Directors, their alternates, or close relatives as defined.

How are Applicants Selected?

Selection is based on academic excellence, professional experience, alignment with program goals, and admission to a partner university. Preference is given to candidates with a strong record of contributing to their countries’ development.

Which Countries Are Eligible?

All African Development Bank regional member countries.

Where will the Award be Taken?

Partner universities in Japan or Africa.

How Many Awards?

Not specified.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

• Tuition fee coverage (up to 24 months).
• Monthly living stipend (up to 24 months).
• Round-trip airfare between home country and host university.
• Health insurance.
• Additional 6 months for preparatory study or internships after graduation.
• Special grant for research/thesis preparation (if applicable).
• Coverage for certain preparatory language or computer literacy courses (if applicable).

How Long Will the Award Last?

Up to 2 years (duration of the master’s program).

How to Apply:

Apply directly to an approved master’s degree program at a Japanese or African partner university.
Submit your JADS scholarship application before the relevant deadline.

Visit the Award Webpage for Details:

Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program

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