Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
The Blue Grant Scholarship under the BE-Prosper initiative supports students from the Horn of Africa to pursue advanced studies in the Blue Economy at the University of British Columbia. The program focuses on fisheries, coastal governance, and sustainable ocean management, with a two-stage selection process involving Intergovernmental Authority on Development and UBC.
Eligible candidates from South Sudan, Djibouti, and Somalia can apply for the 2026 academic intake starting in September.
What is the Blue Grant Scholarship?
The Blue Grant Scholarship is part of the Building Blue Economy Resilience and Prosperity (BE-Prosper) initiative, aimed at strengthening regional expertise in sustainable ocean and marine resource management.
It supports graduate-level education in key Blue Economy sectors, helping build leadership and technical capacity in the Horn of Africa.
Key Focus Areas
The scholarship emphasizes critical areas of the Blue Economy:
1. Blue Economy Leadership
- Policy development and sector leadership
- Strategic planning for marine economies
2. Fisheries Value Chains
- Fisheries economics and management
- Sustainable seafood production systems
3. Coastal Governance
- Regulatory frameworks and policy systems
- Community-based coastal management
4. Marine Spatial Planning
- Ocean zoning and resource allocation
- Balancing conservation and economic use
5. Sustainable Ocean Management
- Ecosystem protection
- Climate-resilient marine practices
Host Institution
The program is hosted by the University of British Columbia, a globally recognized leader in:
- Fisheries economics
- Marine resource management
- Blue Economy research and policy
Participating Countries
Applicants must be from:
- South Sudan
- Djibouti
- Somalia
Why This Scholarship Matters
The Blue Economy is vital for economic growth, food security, and environmental sustainability in coastal regions.
This scholarship helps:
- Build regional expertise in marine sectors
- Strengthen sustainable fisheries and ocean governance
- Support climate resilience and conservation
- Develop future leaders in the Blue Economy
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of South Sudan, Djibouti, or Somalia
- Meet academic requirements for graduate study at UBC
- Demonstrate interest in Blue Economy-related fields
Selection Process
The application process takes place in two phases:
Phase 1: IGAD Screening
- Conducted by Intergovernmental Authority on Development
- Shortlists eligible candidates
Phase 2: UBC Graduate Application
Shortlisted candidates must apply to UBC and meet all admission requirements.
UBC Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Completed graduate application form
- Application fee
- Reference letters
- Statement of interest
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
- Criminal record check
- Proof of citizenship
- Identification of a thesis supervisor
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Process
- Apply for IGAD Screening
- Submit initial application as per BE-Prosper guidelines
- Get Shortlisted
- Wait for IGAD selection results
- Apply to UBC
- Complete graduate application process
- Submit Required Documents
- Ensure all academic and supporting materials are included
Tips for a Strong Application
- Align your interests with Blue Economy priorities
- Highlight relevant academic or professional experience
- Clearly define your research interests
- Secure strong academic references
- Identify a suitable UBC supervisor early
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the two-stage application process
- Incomplete documentation
- Weak or unclear statement of interest
- Not meeting English proficiency requirements
- Failing to identify a supervisor
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who offers this scholarship?
It is part of the BE-Prosper initiative with academic placement at the University of British Columbia.
2. Which countries are eligible?
South Sudan, Djibouti, and Somalia.
3. When does the program start?
The academic year begins in September 2026.
4. Is there a selection process?
Yes, a two-phase process: IGAD screening followed by UBC admission.
5. What fields are covered?
Blue Economy areas such as fisheries, coastal governance, and marine planning.
6. Do I need English proficiency proof?
Yes, if required by UBC admission criteria.
7. What is required for UBC admission?
Application form, references, statement, supervisor, and other supporting documents.
Conclusion
The Blue Grant Scholarship 2026 is a high-impact opportunity for students from the Horn of Africa to gain advanced training in the Blue Economy.
By combining regional selection with global academic excellence at UBC, the program equips future leaders with the skills needed to drive sustainable ocean management and economic resilience in their countries.
For more information, visit IGAD.
