Brief Description
Applications are officially open for the 2025/2026 Harvard University Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa — a groundbreaking and time-sensitive opportunity for visionary African researchers, scholars, and innovators. Act fast! This prestigious program was just announced and provides an unmatched platform for Africa’s brightest minds to collaborate with Harvard University’s global network in advancing cutting-edge research that addresses the continent’s most pressing challenges.
This transformative research accelerator fund, made possible through a generous gift from the Motsepe Foundation, is jointly administered by Harvard University’s Office of the Vice Provost for Research, the Office of the Vice Provost for International Affairs, and the Center for African Studies. Together, these bodies are dedicated to empowering African researchers, faculty, and students to shape the future of innovation and development across Africa.
The Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa is designed to support faculty-led and student-driven research projects that advance knowledge and provide solutions to Africa’s most critical and emerging issues. These include governance, entrepreneurship, technology, sustainability, climate resilience, renewable energy, and public health.
Core Focus Areas
Participants in this prestigious program will conduct impactful research in key areas including:
• Governance and policies fostering an entrepreneurial economy
• Emerging technologies and the Fourth Industrial Revolution
• Climate change and its effects on health, livelihoods, agriculture, water, and sanitation
• Renewable energy and its impact on infrastructure and society
• Health and wellness innovations
• Aging and social development
• Materials science and technological advancement
This fund is not just a grant — it’s an opportunity to join a global community of researchers determined to make a lasting difference. The 2025/2026 edition is a final call for eligible African scholars to seize this time-sensitive opportunity and contribute to shaping Africa’s future through impactful research.
Name of Organizer
The Harvard University Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa is organized by the Motsepe Foundation, in partnership with Harvard University.
Requirements/ Eligibility criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria to qualify for the 2025/2026 Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa. Please review carefully before applying — incomplete or ineligible applications will not be considered.
1. NYSC Completion or Exemption: Applicants must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program or provide valid proof of exemption.
2. Academic Qualification: A minimum of a Second-Class Lower Division (2.2) from a recognized and reputable university.
3. O’Level Requirements: Minimum of five (5) O’Level credits, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings.
4. Age Limit: Applicants must be not more than 26 years old at the time of application.
5. Research Alignment: Applicants must propose or be part of a project that aligns with one or more of the focus areas identified by the Fund.
6. Institutional Affiliation: Applicants should be affiliated with an accredited institution or research body.
7. Proof of Commitment: Applicants must demonstrate strong motivation, leadership potential, and a clear vision for how their research will contribute to Africa’s development goals.
• Note: This program is highly competitive and time-sensitive. Only outstanding applicants will be selected, so be sure to prepare your application early.
LOCATIONS
United States – Cambridge
1280 Massachusetts Avenue
3rd Floor
Cambridge, MA 02138
Africa@Harvard.edu
+1.617.495.5265
Duration and stipends
The Harvard Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa provides research support for up to one academic year. The exact duration depends on the scope and nature of the selected research projects.
Participants will receive a competitive stipend and research grant, covering:
• Research materials and resources
• Travel support for fieldwork or collaboration with Harvard-based mentors
• Accommodation (where applicable)
• Access to Harvard University’s libraries, labs, and virtual platforms
This program ensures that selected researchers are well-equipped to fast-track their projects and produce impactful, high-quality research outcomes.
Deadline
8th December,2025.
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