Deadline: February 1, 2026
The Nordic Africa Institute Claude Ake Visiting Chair 2026 is a prestigious research fellowship program jointly hosted by the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) and the Department of Peace and Conflict Research at Uppsala University, Sweden. Established in honor of the late Professor Claude Ake, one of Africa’s most renowned political scientists and humanists, the programme aims to promote research that contributes to social justice, democracy, and sustainable development in Africa.
This opportunity provides an exceptional platform for senior African scholars to conduct high-level academic research, engage in public discourse, and strengthen networks with international research communities.
About the Nordic Africa Institute Claude Ake Visiting Chair 2026
The Claude Ake Visiting Chair was founded to continue the legacy of Professor Claude Ake, whose work emphasized the interconnection between peace, conflict resolution, human rights, and development. The programme brings leading African scholars to Uppsala for an intensive research residency, fostering collaboration and dialogue around issues critical to Africa’s future.
Programme Benefits
Selected fellows for the Nordic Africa Institute Claude Ake Visiting Chair 2026 will enjoy a comprehensive package designed to support their research and stay in Sweden, including:
- A three-month research residency in Uppsala, Sweden (mid-August to mid-December 2026)
- A tax-free stipend/scholarship to cover living expenses during the stay
- Travel and accommodation grants
- Full access to the Nordic Africa Institute’s research facilities and networks
- Opportunities to present seminars, give public lectures, and collaborate with other researchers at Uppsala University
This fellowship allows participants to conduct their own research projects while contributing to the broader academic and policy discussions that define the Claude Ake legacy.
Eligibility Criteria
The programme targets senior African scholars who meet the following requirements:
- Must be based at an African university
- Hold professorial competence (Professor or Associate Professor level)
- Demonstrate an internationally recognized research profile
- Focus on topics such as war, peace, conflict resolution, human rights, democracy, and development in Africa
Applicants are expected to show both strong academic credentials and a commitment to issues of social justice and transformation on the African continent.
Application Requirements
Applications for the Nordic Africa Institute Claude Ake Visiting Chair 2026 must include the following documents:
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic qualifications, positions, and publications
- A research abstract and proposal (3–5 pages) describing the intended project, methodology, and relevance to African peace and development
- Two relevant publications most closely connected to the proposed research
- A signed recommendation letter from a senior academic or policymaker
- A letter of institutional support from the applicant’s Head of Department or Dean
Duration and Location
- Programme Duration: Three months
- Period: Mid-August to mid-December 2026
- Location: Uppsala, Sweden
Applicants must be available for the full duration of the research stay.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Nordic Africa Institute Claude Ake Visiting Chair 2026 is February 1, 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications early and ensure all materials meet the stated requirements.
About Claude Ake
Professor Claude Ake (1939–1996) was a distinguished Nigerian political scientist whose work centered on political economy, democracy, and social justice in Africa. His legacy continues to inspire generations of African scholars committed to knowledge production that advances peace, equality, and human dignity.
How to Apply
Qualified applicants should submit their complete applications through the official application portal.
👉 Read More About the Programme
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