The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) is pleased to declare the initiation of the 2023/24 AERC PhD Scholarships. These scholarships are specifically designed for candidates hailing from both Francophone and Anglophone sub-Saharan African nations who aspire to pursue studies in Economics at universities that confer doctoral degrees.

The primary objective of these scholarships is to contribute to the continued growth and progress of sub-Saharan Africa. This is accomplished by equipping individuals in the region with specialized training in economics. The program provides valuable backing in the form of resources and support in the realms of policy research and graduate education, all with the overarching aim of nurturing a cadre of locally-based economics professionals.

Scholarship Summary:

• Sponsor: AERC (African Economic Research Consortium)
• Scholarship Type: Full funding
• Host Institutions: Participating universities located in Africa
• Scholarship Value: Amount not specified
• Number of Awards: Multiple scholarships available
• Study Level: Postgraduate (PhD)
• Eligibility: Open to African nationals

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for consideration for the AERC PhD Scholarships for the year 2023, applicants are required to meet the following criteria:

1. Admission to Participating Universities:
   • Applicants must have applied to and been accepted by any of the participating universities offering the PhD program.
2. Academic Qualifications:
   • Candidates should hold a minimum of a Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or its equivalent in Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field from a recognized and accredited university.
3. Master’s Degree:
   • Applicants must possess a Master’s degree in Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field from a recognized university. This Master’s program should consist of both coursework and a thesis component. The coursework should encompass subjects such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, quantitative methods, and econometrics.
4. Research Publication (Optional):
   • While not mandatory, having at least one relevant publication in a refereed journal is considered an advantage in the selection process.
5. Experience in Economic Management, Research, or Training:
   • Applicants who can demonstrate their involvement in economic management, research, and/or training within the public sector will be viewed favorably.
6. Encouragement for Specific Applicants:
   • The scholarship program particularly encourages female applicants and individuals from post-conflict and fragile states to apply. This encouragement extends to alumni from the AERC PhD Bridge Programme classes of 2017 and 2018.

Participating Universities:

• University of Cape Town, South Africa
• University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
• University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
• University of Nairobi, Kenya
• University of Ibadan, Nigeria
• University of Benin, Nigeria
• University of Yaoundé II, Cameroon
• University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin
• Félix Houphouet-Boigny University, Côte d’Ivoire

How to Apply:

Application Process: To apply for the African Economic Research Consortium PhD Scholarships, prospective candidates should follow these steps:

1. University Application:
   • Interested applicants are required to apply for admission directly to the universities participating in the program. Detailed application procedures can be found on the respective university’s official website.
2. Submission of Documents:
   • Upon receiving an admission offer from the chosen university, applicants should proceed to the AERC scholarship portal and submit the following essential documents:

   a. Application Cover Letter b. Curriculum Vitae (CV) c. Proof of Admission: Provide evidence of admission to one of the participating universities.

   d. Certified Academic Records: Include certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.

By adhering to these application instructions, candidates can initiate the process of applying for the AERC PhD Scholarships.

Application Deadline: August 31st , 2023.

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