Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program

Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program: Overview

The Japan Africa Dream Scholarship supports exceptional African students in pursuing 2-year master’s degrees in priority development sectors. Aligned with AfDB’s High 5 priorities and Japan’s development initiatives, the program aims to strengthen Africa’s human capital and leadership capacity. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries post-graduation to contribute to socio-economic development at both national and continental levels.

Organizers: African Development Bank & Government of Japan
Study Level: Master’s (2 years)
Focus Areas: Energy, Agriculture, Health, Environmental Sustainability, Engineering
Target Group: High-achieving African students from AfDB regional member countries with relevant education, professional experience, and a record of contributing to their country’s development

Scholarship Coverage

• Full tuition for up to 24 months

• Monthly living stipend for up to 24 months

• Round-trip airfare (home country → host university → home country)

• Health insurance (via the host university)

• Up to 6 months for preparatory study or internship after graduation

• Special research & thesis preparation grant (for eligible scholars)

• May cover preparatory language/computer literacy courses if necessary

Not Covered

• Family member expenses

• Extra-curricular or non-program-related training

• Language training not provided by the program

• Costs for field trips, workshops, educational equipment (e.g., computers)

• Supplementary materials outside the curriculum

Conditions

• Scholarship only covers 2 years or the program duration (whichever is shorter)

• May supplement but not duplicate other funding sources — students must declare any additional financial support

• Stipend may be reduced or withdrawn if significant alternative funding is received during the program

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the Japan Africa Dream Scholarship (JADS) Program