Building a critical mass of responsible, gender-inclusive AI capacity across Africa’s universities.

a) How many PhD scholarships are available? Ten (10) PhD scholarships are available for candidates already enrolled or accepted into a PhD programme at an accredited African university or higher education institution.

b) Who is eligible for the PhD scholarships?

• Africans or permanent residents in Africa with a strong commitment to using AI for the continent’s development.
• Must be enrolled or formally accepted into a PhD programme at an accredited African higher education institution.
• Research must focus on responsible, gender-inclusive AI applications in the ATPS thematic areas.
• Strong academic record (minimum Master’s degree) and preferably publications or patents. Women and scholars from low-resource regions are strongly encouraged to apply.

c) What funding and benefits are provided for PhD scholars? The scholarships offer partial funding in the indicative range of USD 10,000 – 15,000 total over two years (approximately USD 5,000–7,500 per year). This covers tuition (paid directly to the university), research expenses, living stipend (paid to the student), and travel support for conferences and workshops. Additional benefits include mentorship from global and African AI experts, access to the ATPS Community of Practice, the Interactive Collaborative Environment (ICE) knowledge-sharing platform, and opportunities for policy engagement.

d) What is the deadline and how do I apply for the PhD scholarship? Deadline: 15 March 2026. Submit your application via the official online portal: https://forms.gle/gK3459iSwpVG9oYu7 Required documents include: research proposal (max. 8 pages), academic transcripts, CV, two recommendation letters, and proof of enrollment/acceptance.

e) If selected, can I modify my proposal to cover a wider scope of gender inclusion, and will ATPS provide guidance on how to do this?

Yes. Once integrated into the ATPS network and the responsible AI ecosystem, awardees will receive training, mentorship, and access to published resources on pathways to implementing gender-responsive programs and projects in AI. ATPS has a dedicated Gender Specialist on the team who will support fellows in strengthening the gender dimension of their research. Note: ATPS cannot modify a submitted application on your behalf, but full support will be provided post-selection.

f) I have already submitted my application. Can I revise it based on new information shared during the webinar?

Yes, but only through a formal process. You must write to the ATPS contact address requesting withdrawal of your existing submission. You may then resubmit a revised application. This withdrawal and resubmission process is permitted only once per applicant.

g) Can applicants from federal, state, or private universities apply?

Yes. ATPS recognizes any accredited institution in Africa— whether federal, state, or private — provided it is transparent, accredited, and has the demonstrated capacity to drive responsible AI research. The type of university (public or private) does not disqualify an applicant.

h) How will ATPS correlate transcripts emailed separately with the correct applicant record?

Transcripts submitted via email will be matched to the application record by the applicant’s name. ATPS is aware that some institutions have policies that require transcripts to be sent directly and officially, and this process accommodates that. Applicants are encouraged to clearly reference their full name and application details in any email correspondence.

I) What benefits or incentives are available for supervisors who mentor PhD scholars under ARISE?

There are no direct stipends for supervisors. However, supervisors and their research labs may benefit indirectly in the following ways: research funding awarded to the scholar may be used to acquire equipment and resources for the lab that remain for long-term institutional use; the university benefits from tuition fees paid directly by ATPS; and the supervisor and institution gain recognition within the ATPS network and the Carnegie Corporation of New York ecosystem.

j) Are applicants required to submit a detailed budget as part of the initial application?

No. A detailed budget is not required at the initial application stage for either PhD scholarships or postdoctoral fellowships. Applicants only need to submit the technical proposal and all supporting documentation at this stage. Shortlisted candidates will be invited separately to prepare and submit a detailed budget. ATPS may conduct a follow-up webinar to guide shortlisted applicants through the budget preparation process before final selection.