15 Fully Funded Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL) -NUST PhD Scholarships Open for Southern Africa’s Future Water Research Leaders
Outstanding Master’s graduates from five Southern African countries have an opportunity to pursue fully funded doctoral studies through the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL). The programme is offering 15 fully funded PhD scholarships aimed at developing the region’s next generation of experts in Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM).
Hosted by the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), the scholarship programme combines world-class doctoral research, regional collaboration, and international scientific training to address some of Southern Africa’s most pressing water and climate challenges.
Applications are open until 24 July 2026 at 23:59 CAT.
Supporting the Future of Water Research in Southern Africa
The scholarships are offered under the SASSCAL Graduate Studies Programme in Integrated Water Resources Management (SGSP-IWRM II), one of SASSCAL’s flagship capacity development initiatives.
SASSCAL is a regional research and capacity-building organisation that promotes scientific knowledge, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making across Southern Africa. Through collaborative research and postgraduate training, the organisation supports sustainable development by strengthening expertise in climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, resilient livelihoods, and water resource management.
The PhD programme seeks to equip researchers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to develop innovative solutions to water-related challenges affecting communities throughout the region.
Only 15 Scholarships Available Across Five Countries
A total of 15 fully funded scholarships will be awarded, with three candidates selected from each participating country.
Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of one of the following SASSCAL member countries:
- Angola
- Botswana
- Namibia
- South Africa
- Zambia
The competitive programme is designed for exceptional Master’s graduates who aspire to become leaders in scientific research, innovation, and sustainable water management.
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International Research Experience in Germany
One of the programme’s most distinctive features is its international scientific mobility scheme.
Successful PhD candidates will spend at least three months in Germany, where they will participate in advanced scientific training coordinated by the International Centre for Water Resources and Global Change (ICWRGC) in partnership with leading German research institutions.
The international placement will provide scholars with opportunities to:
- Work alongside internationally recognised researchers.
- Access advanced scientific laboratories and research infrastructure.
- Strengthen international research collaborations.
- Expand professional and academic networks.
- Enhance the quality and global impact of their doctoral research.
The mobility programme is intended to expose scholars to international best practices while strengthening research collaboration between Africa and Germany.
Available PhD Research Areas
Applicants may pursue doctoral research within several disciplines linked to sustainable water management and environmental resilience.
Available research themes include:
- Natural Resources Sciences
- Natural Resources Management and Ecology
- Engineering (Water and Environment)
- Spatial Sciences
- Informatics
- Health Sciences
Applicants must submit a research concept note aligned with one of these thematic areas.
Academic Requirements
Candidates must satisfy both the programme’s academic requirements and NUST’s doctoral admission criteria.
Applicants should have:
- A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent NQF Level 9 qualification.
- Evidence of supervised Master’s-level research.
- Academic qualifications relevant to the selected research field.
- A research proposal aligned with the programme’s thematic priorities.
Admission is subject to approval by NUST and the availability of a suitable academic supervisor.
Shortlisted candidates may also be invited to participate in an interview as part of the selection process.
Required Application Documents
Applicants are required to submit a complete application package, including:
- A concept note linked to the chosen research theme.
- An academic curriculum vitae (2–3 pages).
- Certified copies of academic qualifications.
- Certified academic transcripts.
- Two academic and/or professional references.
Incomplete applications may not be considered during the selection process.
Building Scientific Capacity for Climate and Water Security
The SGSP-IWRM II programme is designed to strengthen scientific capacity across Southern Africa by preparing highly skilled researchers capable of addressing complex environmental and water resource challenges.
Research undertaken through the programme is expected to contribute to improved climate resilience, sustainable water governance, environmental conservation, and evidence-based policymaking across the SADC region.
Graduates will also become part of a growing regional network of researchers working to support sustainable development through science and innovation.
Key Application Information
Prospective applicants should take note of the following important details:
- Programme: SASSCAL Graduate Studies Programme in Integrated Water Resources Management (SGSP-IWRM II)
- Host Institution: Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST)
- Scholarships Available: 15 fully funded PhD positions
- Eligible Countries: Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia
- International Mobility: Minimum three-month research placement in Germany
- Application Deadline: 24 July 2026 at 23:59 CAT
An Opportunity to Shape Southern Africa’s Water Future
As climate change and increasing water pressures continue to affect Southern Africa, the need for skilled researchers and innovative scientific solutions has never been greater.
The SGSP-IWRM II scholarships offer talented Master’s graduates a unique opportunity to pursue fully funded doctoral studies, gain international research experience, and contribute to solving critical water and environmental challenges that will shape the region’s future for generations to come.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) does not take ownership or credit for the opportunities shared on this platform. All opportunities are sourced from official announcements and external sources for informational purposes only. Applicants are encouraged to verify all details, deadlines, and eligibility requirements from the official source before applying. Opportunities may be updated or changed by the providing organisations.
