Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) Visiting Scholarship Programme 2025/2026 for African Researchers and Academics

The Africa Oxford Initiative Visiting Scholarship Programme (AfOx) represents a unique opportunity for African researchers and academics, including those from Cape Verde, to expand their horizons, collaborate on cutting-edge research projects and strengthen their professional networks at one of the world's most prestigious universities: the University of Oxford.

What is the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx)?

The Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) is a cross-departmental platform at the University of Oxford that aims to promote equitable and impactful collaborations between the university and African institutions. AfOx seeks to address global challenges through collaborative research, capacity building and knowledge exchange. The visiting scholar programme is one of the key pillars of this initiative.

The AfOx Scholarship: A Gateway to Oxford

The AfOx scholarship offers African researchers the opportunity to spend a period of time (usually 3 to 12 months) at the University of Oxford, working in collaboration with Oxford colleagues on research projects of mutual interest. The scholarship covers travelling, accommodation and subsistence expenses, allowing the fellows to concentrate fully on their research activities.

Benefits of the AfOx Scholarship:

• Access to world-class research resources at the University of Oxford.
• Opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers in their fields.
• Development of research skills and leadership abilities.
• Expansion of the professional network and establishment of lasting collaborations.
• Contribution to the advancement of knowledge and the development of solutions to African challenges.

Impact in Cape Verde: Strengthening Research and Academia

For Cape Verde, the AfOx scholarship represents a crucial opportunity to strengthen research capacity and academic excellence. By enabling Cape Verdean researchers to spend time in Oxford, the programme contributes to:

• The transfer of knowledge and technology to Cape Verde.
• The development of new areas of research relevant to the country.
• Strengthening higher education and research institutions in Cape Verde.
• Increasing the visibility of Cape Verdean research on the international stage.

Example: A researcher from the University of Cape Verde, specialising in renewable energies, could use the AfOx grant to collaborate with the Department of Engineering at the University of Oxford in the development of innovative technologies for generating solar energy in island environments such as those in Cape Verde. This collaboration could result in joint research projects, scientific publications and, eventually, the implementation of sustainable energy solutions in Cape Verde.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

Eligibility criteria for the AfOx scholarship generally include:

• Be a citizen of an African country.
• Be employed in a higher education or research institution in Africa.
• Hold a doctorate (PhD) or equivalent qualification.
• Have a well-defined research project aligned with the University of Oxford's areas of interest.
• Demonstrate potential for leadership and impact in their field.

The application process usually involves submitting an online form, along with documents such as a CV, research proposal, letters of recommendation and proof of ties to an African institution. It is essential to read the application guidelines carefully and prepare a clear, concise and convincing research proposal.

Tips for a Successful Application

To increase your chances of success in applying for the AfOx scholarship, consider the following tips:

• Choose a relevant research project: Make sure that your research project is aligned with the University of Oxford's research priorities and that it has the potential to generate significant impact.
• Find a collaborator in Oxford: Identify a researcher at Oxford who works in a field related to yours and contact them to discuss the possibility of collaboration. A letter of support from an Oxford collaborator can significantly strengthen your application.
• Prepare a clear and concise research proposal: Your research proposal should clearly describe the problem you intend to investigate, the methodology you will use and the expected results.
• Get strong letters of recommendation: Ask for letters of recommendation from people who know you well and can vouch for your research skills and leadership potential.
• Proofread your application carefully: Before submitting your application, proofread it carefully to ensure that there are no grammar or spelling mistakes and that all documents are complete and correct.

Conclusion: An Unmissable Opportunity for the Development of Research in Cape Verde

The Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) Visiting Fellowship Programme 2025/2026 represents a valuable opportunity for Cape Verdean researchers and academics to advance their careers, contribute to the advancement of knowledge and strengthen the country's research capacity. By seizing this opportunity, Cape Verdean researchers can play a key role in developing innovative solutions to the challenges facing Cape Verde and strengthening its position as a centre of research excellence in Africa.

We encourage all eligible Cape Verdean researchers and academics to seriously consider applying for the AfOx scholarship. This is a unique opportunity to expand your horizons, collaborate with world-class researchers and contribute to the development of Cape Verde.

Apply now for the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) Visiting Scholarship Programme 2025/2026! Find out more and sign up here.
Application deadline: 06 June 2025.