The Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) has opened applications for Phase II of the EAC Scholarship Programme. This fully funded initiative targets universities and higher education institutions in East Africa. It offers a chance to host top students from across the region and build stronger academic ties.
Overview of the EAC Scholarship Programme Phase II
The EAC Scholarship Programme Phase II builds on earlier efforts to improve higher education in East Africa. IUCEA runs the program with support from the East African Community (EAC) and funding from Germany’s KfW government. Key goals include training skilled workers in key areas, boosting regional ties through student mobility, and creating future leaders.
Focus areas cover mathematics, engineering, science, technology, informatics, and business fields. Institutions play a central role by admitting and training students from other EAC countries. This setup promotes cultural exchange and teamwork among universities.
What Hosting Students Means for Institutions
Universities selected as hosts will welcome scholarship recipients for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies. These students come from different EAC Partner States, not their home countries. Hosts must provide academic support, mentorship, and help with integration.
Institutions also aid in internships and practical training. This role helps align with EAC aims for regional student mobility. By joining, universities become key players in a larger network of academic exchange.
Benefits for Hosted Students
Students receive full funding, which draws high-quality talent to host institutions. Coverage includes tuition fees, a monthly stipend for living costs, medical insurance, research allowances, and return air tickets if needed. This support lets students focus on studies without money worries.
Hosts benefit from working with motivated scholars in priority fields. The setup raises the profile of programs and improves teaching quality.
Who Can Apply as a Host Institution
Eligible applicants include universities and accredited higher education institutions in EAC Partner States. They must offer programs in the target disciplines and show strong teaching and research skills. Hosts need to handle international students well, including mentorship and support services.
Institutions should prepare to link with IUCEA and other partners. Proof of accreditation and capacity to host is required.
Eligible Countries
Applications come from institutions in these EAC Partner States:
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Rwanda
- Burundi
- South Sudan
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Somalia
This list ensures wide access across the region.
Profile of Target Students
Students hosted under the program are EAC citizens, often under 35 years old, with solid academic records. They pursue degrees in STEM or business fields. Institutions will train them in a mix of coursework, research, internships, and networking.
Reasons for Institutions to Apply
Participation brings clear gains. First, it boosts prestige as a regional leader in education. Second, it adds diversity with students from various East African backgrounds.
Third, it sparks research growth through talented scholars. Fourth, funding eases costs while upgrading programs. Fifth, it opens doors to regional networks and partnerships.
Program Structure
The scholarship blends classroom learning with hands-on elements. Students take courses, do research projects, complete internships, receive mentorship, and join regional events. This full approach prepares them for real-world roles in priority sectors.
Strategic Role of the Program
Beyond education, the EAC Scholarship Programme Phase II drives economic progress, innovation, and unity in East Africa. Hosts help shape a skilled workforce and knowledge base for the future.
How to Apply
Institutions submit official applications via IUCEA. Include details on programs, accreditation, hosting capacity, and courses in priority areas. Check the IUCEA website for forms and updates.
Application Deadline
Submit by April 23, 2026. This chance helps universities grow as academic hubs in East Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EAC Scholarship Programme Phase II?
It is a fully funded program run by IUCEA to train skilled students in fields like math, engineering, science, technology, and business. Host universities in East Africa welcome students from other EAC countries to build regional ties.
Which institutions can apply to host students?
Universities and accredited higher education institutions in EAC Partner States like Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DR Congo, and Somalia can apply. They must offer programs in target fields and support international students.
What benefits do students and hosts get?
Students receive full funding including tuition, stipend, insurance, and travel. Hosts gain prestige, diverse talent, research growth, and regional networks.
What is the application deadline?
Institutions must submit applications by April 23, 2026. Visit the IUCEA website for forms and details.
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