CFPs: Rebecca Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant Programme

Deadline: 27-Feb-2026

The Rebecca H. Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant supports African scholars conducting research on literacy education for children and youth with disabilities. The USD 5,000 prize combines financial support with recognition to enable impactful research across West, East, Central, and Southern Africa.

Overview of the Grant Programme

The 3rd Rebecca H. Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant is a collaborative initiative by the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) and the Comparative and International Education Society (CIES). The programme supports research aimed at improving literacy outcomes for children and youth with disabilities across African contexts. Applicants are encouraged to focus on inclusive literacy approaches and share results within 18 months of receiving the prize.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must:

• Hold citizenship of an African country

• Currently reside in Africa or have recent residence with a clear intention to continue work in Africa

• Possess a master’s degree or equivalent and have started a doctoral program

• Early career researchers and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, especially as lead or co-lead investigators

Why It Matters

This grant addresses critical challenges in inclusive literacy education:

• Promoting Inclusion: Supports research that benefits children and youth with disabilities.

• Capacity Building: Encourages early career researchers to develop expertise in inclusive literacy.

• Regional Impact: Focuses on West, East, Central, and Southern Africa to strengthen local educational practices.

• Timely Knowledge Sharing: Research results are expected to be disseminated within 18 months to inform policy and practice.

Funding Details

• Prize Amount: USD 5,000 for a single primary applicant

• Purpose: Cover research expenses for inclusive literacy studies

• Timeline: Research must be completed and results shared within 18 months

How to Apply

1. Prepare Research Proposal: Include objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and relevance to inclusive literacy.

2. Prepare Supporting Documents: CVs of all investigators, budget, references, and proof of submission to an authorized internal or institutional review board.

3. Submit Application: Follow the official submission process outlined by ADEA and CIES.

4. Review Process: Applications are reviewed by a jury including prize founders, ADEA representatives, and relevant CIES Special Interest Groups.

5. Award Notification: The winner will be notified in March 2026.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete or missing research proposals or supporting documents

• Lack of clarity on African context or residency requirement

• Failure to demonstrate inclusive literacy focus or methodology

• Not providing IRB submission proof for ethical clearance

FAQs

1. Who can apply for this grant? African citizens with a master’s degree or higher who have begun a doctoral program.
2. What research focus is required? Literacy education for children and youth with disabilities.
3. What is the prize amount? USD 5,000 awarded to a single primary applicant.
4. Where must the research be conducted? West, East, Central, or Southern Africa.
5. Are early career researchers eligible? Yes, they are encouraged to apply, especially if leading the study.
6. What documents are required? Research proposal, budget, CVs, references, and IRB submission proof.
7. When will the winner be notified? March 2026.

Conclusion

The Rebecca H. Rhodes African Inclusive Literacy Research Grant empowers African scholars to advance literacy education for children and youth with disabilities. By combining financial support, ethical oversight, and mentorship through the review process, the programme strengthens inclusive educational practices and fosters research leadership across Africa.

For more information, visit ADEA.