Fully Online Essential Grant-Writing Skills Programme 2026 by the Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF)

Overview

The Essential Grant-Writing Skills Programme 2026 is a fully online training initiative by the Africa Research Excellence Fund (AREF) designed to help early-career African researchers develop competitive research funding proposals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a competitive research funding proposal.
• Attend live virtual sessions and complete assignments.
• Develop a mini research proposal and review peers' proposals.
• Participate in programme evaluation surveys.

Requirements

• Early-career African researchers.
• Strong commitment and active participation.
• Reliable internet connection and computer/laptop compatible with Zoom.
• Smartphone access.
• Early stages of a research career.
• Currently employed by a recognized African university or research institution.
• Actively involved in health research.
• Hold a research doctorate (PhD, DPhil, or MD) awarded since January 2020, or a medical/clinical qualification plus a relevant Master’s degree obtained within the past six years.
• Not previously attended similar grant-writing training.
• Do not hold a large portfolio of international research grants exceeding £250,000.
• Capacity to benefit from the training, including research experience, academic achievements, evidence of emerging research leadership, vision for contributing to health research in Africa, plans to share knowledge, and strong command of English.
• No more than two participants from the same institution.
• Efforts to maintain gender and language balance.

Benefits

Strengthen grant-writing and proposal development skills. Improve ability to compete for international funding. Develop independent research careers. Enhance the quality of health research addressing Africa’s key health challenges. Gain insights into how funding organizations evaluate research proposals. Learn from real-world examples of successful applications.

Location

Global

How to Apply

Submit applications through the AREF online application portal. This includes registering an account, completing the online form, and reviewing supporting guidance.

Deadline

April 3, 2026