Ashinaga Africa Initiative 2027

Overview

The Ashinaga Africa Initiative is a Japan-based programme that funds Sub-Saharan African students who have lost one or both parents to study at universities outside their home country. Recipients commit to returning to their home country after graduation to contribute to its development. Around 50 Scholars per cohort. The 2027 cycle deadline is 15 December 2026.

Benefits

• Full tuition fees at universities in Japan, the United States, Europe, or other approved destinations.
• Living, accommodation, and food allowance for the duration of the undergraduate programme.
• Return travel between home country and host country.
• Language training (English, Japanese, French, or German, depending on host country) before the academic year starts.
• Career mentorship and Ashinaga alumni network access.

Eligibility

• Sub-Saharan African citizen, resident in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Lost one or both parents.
• Born after 1 September 2007 (under 20 at the start of the programme).
• Completed secondary school with strong academic results.
• Demonstrated leadership potential.
• Commitment to return to home country after completing studies.

How to apply

1. Open the Ashinaga Africa Initiative page at the source link to confirm the eligible country list for the current cycle.
2. Complete the online application: personal background, family circumstances, academic records, two references, and essays on leadership and return-to-Africa plans.
3. Submit before 15 December 2026.
4. Shortlisted applicants attend a regional assessment camp in early 2027 (a multi-day residential interview process).
5. Selected Scholars travel to a Tokyo orientation in mid-2027, then to their assigned host universities for September 2027 entry.