Deadline: 25-Jan-2026
The REFOREST Africa PhD Programme is offering 20 fully funded PhD Forest Science scholarships for candidates from Eastern and Southern Africa, starting in April/May 2026. Coordinated by Sokoine University of Agriculture and funded by Sida, the programme supports advanced research in forestry, climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable land management. Applications close on 25 January 2026.
Programme Overview
The Regional Research School in Forest Sciences Programme (REFOREST Africa PhD Programme) invites qualified candidates to apply for 20 PhD Forest Science scholarships for a maximum duration of four years, starting in April or May 2026.
The programme is coordinated by the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), Tanzania, and is financed by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).
It aims to strengthen advanced forestry research and education in Eastern and Southern Africa by developing highly skilled PhD-level scientists.
Research Themes
Applicants must align their proposed research with one of the following thematic areas:
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Commercial forestry and bio-economy
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Sustainable natural forest management
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Agroforestry
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Biodiversity and ecosystems
Concept notes that do not clearly align with these themes may be rejected.
Objectives of the REFOREST Africa PhD Programme
The programme seeks to:
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Enhance the quality, relevance, and reach of forest research
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Strengthen forestry education capacity in the region
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Produce PhD scientists capable of solving complex forest management challenges
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Support livelihood transformation and environmental sustainability
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Facilitate regional and international research networks and partnerships
Partner Institutions
The REFOREST Africa PhD Programme is implemented in collaboration with leading universities, including:
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Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Sweden)
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Eduardo Mondlane University (Mozambique)
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National University of Rwanda (Rwanda)
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Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, Hawassa University (Ethiopia)
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Makerere University (Uganda)
These partnerships ensure joint supervision, high academic standards, and international research exposure.
Scholarship Value and Coverage
The PhD scholarship is fully funded and covers:
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Economy-class international travel tickets
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Full tuition fees
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Monthly stipend
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Approved research costs
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Health insurance while in Tanzania
Funding is provided for a maximum of four years, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet all of the following eligibility criteria:
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Hold a Master’s degree in forestry or allied sciences from a recognized university
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Be a citizen or refugee of Ethiopia, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, or Uganda
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Demonstrate proficiency in English, the language of instruction
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Be able to commit to full-time PhD study and research
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Submit a concept note aligned with one of the programme themes
Gender and Inclusion Policy
The REFOREST Africa PhD Programme is gender sensitive and actively promotes women’s participation in forestry research.
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Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
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Special consideration and support may be provided for female applicants with special needs
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The programme aims to strengthen women’s leadership in forestry careers across the region
Structure of the PhD Programme
The PhD Forest Sciences Degree Programme consists of:
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Year 1: Coursework at Sokoine University of Agriculture
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Years 2–4: Research phase conducted primarily in the student’s home country
During the research phase, students are expected to:
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Publish papers in internationally recognized journals
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Complete thesis writing and defense before graduation
Each student is supervised by a joint team of three senior academics from:
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Sokoine University of Agriculture
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Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
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A partner university in the student’s home country
Why This Scholarship Matters
This programme addresses critical gaps in advanced forestry research capacity in Eastern and Southern Africa.
It contributes to:
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Sustainable forest and landscape management
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Climate change mitigation and adaptation
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Biodiversity conservation
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Evidence-based forestry policy and practice
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Long-term institutional and human capacity development
How to Apply for the REFOREST Africa PhD Scholarship
Applicants must submit a complete application package containing:
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Application letter
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Curriculum vitae with a recent passport-size photograph
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Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
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Brief PhD concept note aligned with programme themes
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Evidence of English language proficiency
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Letter of support from current institution or employer
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National identity document
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Application Deadline
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Closing date: 25 January 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting a concept note not aligned with the listed themes
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Missing certified academic documents
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Failing to provide proof of English proficiency
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Omitting the employer or institutional support letter
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Applying after the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many PhD scholarships are available?
Twenty PhD Forest Science scholarships are available for the 2026 intake.
2. Where will successful candidates be registered?
All successful applicants will be admitted and registered at Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania.
3. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, travel, stipend, research costs, and health insurance in Tanzania.
4. Can refugees apply for this programme?
Yes. Refugees residing in eligible countries are allowed to apply.
5. Where will research be conducted?
Research will be conducted primarily in the applicant’s home country after coursework completion.
6. What is the language of instruction?
English is the official language of instruction and communication.
7. When does the programme start?
The PhD programme begins in April or May 2026.
Conclusion
The REFOREST Africa PhD Forest Science Scholarships 2026 provide a unique opportunity for emerging researchers to gain world-class doctoral training while addressing critical forestry and environmental challenges in Eastern and Southern Africa. Eligible candidates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant research interests are encouraged to apply before 25 January 2026 to be part of this transformative programme.
For more information, visit REFOREST Programme.
