REFOREST Africa PhD Programme: Forest Sciences Scholarships

Application Deadline: January 25, 2026

Start Date: April/May 2026

Overview

20 fully-funded PhD scholarships in forest sciences for Eastern and Southern African researchers.

Program: REFOREST Africa PhD Programme Coordinator: Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania Funding: Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) Duration: Maximum 4 years Scholarships Available: 20

Program Partners

• Sokoine University of Agriculture (Tanzania)
• Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Sweden)
• Eduardo Mondlane University (Mozambique)
• National University of Rwanda (Rwanda)
• Wondo Genet College of Forestry (Hawassa University, Ethiopia)
• Makerere University (Uganda)

Program Objectives

• Enhance quality, relevance, reach of forest research
• Strengthen forestry education capacity
• Produce PhD-level forest scientists
• Transform livelihoods and environment in region
• Facilitate networking and knowledge management

Who Can Apply

Eligibility:

• Master's degree in forestry or allied sciences (from recognized university)
• Citizens of: Ethiopia, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda (including refugees)
• Proficient English (medium of instruction)

Encouraged: Female candidates highly encouraged; special support available for female candidates with special needs

PhD Program Structure

Year 1: Coursework in Tanzania Years 2-4: Research in home country Supervision: Joint supervision team (3 academics)

• One from Sokoine University of Agriculture
• One from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
• One from partner university in home country

Research Themes

1. Commercial forestry and bio-economy
2. Sustainable natural forest management
3. Agroforestry
4. Climate change
5. Biodiversity and ecosystems

Scholarship Coverage

• Travel expenses (economy tickets)
• Tuition fees
• Monthly stipend
• Approved research costs
• Health insurance (while in Tanzania)

How to Apply

Submit to: reforestafrica@sua.ac.tz

Required Documents:

• Application letter
• CV with recent passport photo
• Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
• Concept note (max 4 pages, single-spaced, font 12):
  • Background information
  • Knowledge gaps
  • Research objectives
  • Brief methodology
  • Maximum 10 latest references
• Evidence of English language proficiency
• Letter of support from current institution/employer
• National Identity document

Deadline: January 25, 2026

For more information

Email: reforestafrica@sua.ac.tz or Visit: https://www.cfwt.sua.ac.tz/reforest/call-for-applications-phd-forest-sciences-scholarships-2025-20-positions/

Program Track Record

First phase (2020-2025): 18 PhD graduates, all working in forestry positions in their home countries