Canon Foundation & Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026

Canon Foundation & Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship 2026

Fully Funded Research Program in Japan | €27,500 Yearly Grant

Are you a postdoctoral researcher or academic with a passion for African Studies and global collaboration? This is your chance to carry out impactful research in Japan or Africa under a prestigious fully funded scholarship program!

The Canon Foundation in Europe (CFE) in collaboration with Kyoto University, is offering the Japan-Africa Exchange Scholarship, supporting researchers from Africa and Kyoto University partner institutions with up to €27,500 per year for research, travel, and living expenses.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Japan
  
  

• Location: Kyoto University or African partner institutions
  
  

• Study Abroad Region: Asia
  
  

• Category: Fellowships | Postgraduate Research | African Studies
  
  

• Eligible Countries: All African Nations
  
  

• Reward:
  Full Research Scholarship
  Up to €27,500 per year
  Covers living, research, and travel expenses
  
  

• Deadline: September 15, 2025
  
  

Program Details

This exchange program allows:

• Scholars from Kyoto University to conduct research in African institutions, and
  
  

• Scholars from African partner institutions to carry out research at Kyoto University in Japan.
  
  

It aims to enhance mutual academic collaboration, promote cultural and scientific exchange, and support future leaders in African studies and international development.

The Canon Foundation, based in the Netherlands, is an independent philanthropic institution committed to fostering academic and cultural cooperation between Japan and the rest of the world.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this opportunity, applicants must:

• Hold at least a Master’s degree (MA)
  
  

• Be employed at Kyoto University or its African partner institutions as either a post-doctoral fellow or faculty member
  
  

• Be able to provide 2 reference letters, one of which must come from a prospective host at Kyoto University confirming research support
  
  

• Have a clearly defined research plan
  
  

• Be committed to international collaboration and advancing African Studies
  
  

Funding and Duration

• Grant Amount: €22,500 – €27,500 per year (pro-rated based on project length)
  
  

• Covers:
  Living allowance
  Research expenses
  International travel
  Insurance
  
  

The Canon Foundation will handle all financial arrangements directly with successful applicants.

Required Application Documents

To apply, prepare and email the following to: africaunit@kura.kyoto-u.ac.jp

1. Research Plan (max 2 pages) – include project title, start/end dates, and a breakdown of estimated expenses (living, research, travel, insurance).
   
   

2. Two Reference Letters (max 1 page each) – One academic and one from your host supervisor at Kyoto University.
   
   

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   
   

4. Copy of Doctoral Certificate or highest academic qualification
   
   

5. Passport-Sized Photograph
   
   

6. List of Publications or Professional Achievements – Include full citations (author, title, publication, year, pages)
   
   

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

1. Visit the program’s page (search “Canon Foundation Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange” or contact the email below).
   
   

2. Send all application documents to:
   canon_caas@jambo.africa.kyoto-u.ac.jp
   
   

3. Await results – The Canon Foundation Selection Committee will review applications and notify candidates via email.
   
   

For inquiries, contact:
africaunit@kura.kyoto-u.ac.jp

Why This Scholarship Matters

This is more than just a grant, it's an opportunity to:

• Engage in cutting-edge research
  
  

• Expand your academic influence internationally
  
  

• Collaborate with top scholars in Japan and Africa
  
  

• Contribute meaningfully to African Studies and cross-cultural dialogue