The Canon Foundation Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Program is an esteemed initiative aimed at fostering academic and cultural exchange between Japan and Africa. This program is a collaborative effort between the Canon Foundation and Kyoto University, designed to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation between these two regions through scholarly engagement and research collaboration. By supporting African researchers and scholars to study and conduct research in Japan, the program seeks to build bridges of knowledge and promote international collaboration in various academic fields.
Participants of the Canon Foundation Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Program are provided with financial support to pursue research and academic activities at Kyoto University, one of Japan’s leading institutions. This support typically includes funding for travel, living expenses, and research-related costs, ensuring that scholars can focus on their academic pursuits without financial constraints. The program is open to researchers from a wide range of disciplines, allowing for a diverse and multidisciplinary exchange of ideas and knowledge.
During their time at Kyoto University, participants engage in advanced research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members. They have access to the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, libraries, and laboratories, which provide an excellent environment for academic and scientific inquiry. Scholars are encouraged to collaborate with their Japanese counterparts, fostering a rich exchange of perspectives and expertise that can lead to innovative research outcomes and long-term partnerships.
The Canon Foundation Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Program also emphasizes cultural exchange and personal development. Participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, learning about the country’s history, traditions, and societal values. This cultural exposure enhances the overall experience of the scholars, broadening their worldview and enriching their academic journey. Additionally, by bringing African scholars to Japan, the program helps to raise awareness about African cultures and perspectives within the Japanese academic community.
One of the key objectives of the program is to strengthen the academic and research capabilities of African institutions. By providing African scholars with the opportunity to gain advanced training and experience at Kyoto University, the program aims to contribute to the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce that can drive scientific and technological progress in Africa. Upon returning to their home countries, participants are expected to apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge to address local challenges and contribute to the growth and development of their respective institutions and communities.
The Canon Foundation Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Program plays a vital role in promoting international academic cooperation and cultural understanding between Japan and Africa. Through financial support, advanced research opportunities, and cultural exchange, the program empowers African scholars to achieve academic excellence and fosters long-lasting partnerships between Japanese and African academic institutions. By investing in the development of human capital and promoting cross-cultural dialogue, the program contributes to the creation of a more interconnected and collaborative global academic community.
Based on the Memorandum of Understanding concluded between the Canon Foundation in Europe (CFE) and Kyoto University (KU), the Canon Foundation-Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Program started in 2018. The program offers fellowships to highly qualified researchers in fields of research related to African Studies. The program is intended to support 1) fellows from KU who want to do research in Africa, and 2) for scholars from Kyoto University’s partner institutes in Africa who want to do research in Kyoto. The fellowships are for a minimum period of six weeks up to maximum of one year between April 1, 2025 and March 31, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria For The Canon Foundation Kyoto University Japan-Africa Exchange Programme
- Applicants need to be holding at least an MA degree and employed either at KU or KU’s partner institutions as post-doctoral fellows or faculty members at the time of applying.
Stipend and Travel Expenses
- The financial support for successful applicants ranges from 22,500 Euro to 27,500 Euro per year and is pro-rated for different periods. CFE will directly administer the payments and notify the detailed payment procedure to each successful applicant.
Method of Application
The deadline for applications is October 15th, 2024. Consideration of the applications takes place first at KU and then at CFE. The Selection Committee of CFE will make final decisions and email the results to applicants before the end of March of that year. Therefore, the earliest possible date to begin the fellowship is April 1 of the same year. Please submit the following documents to Kyoto University Africa Unit (canon_caas@jambo.africa.kyoto-u.ac.jp):
- Your research plan including a clear title at the top of the page as well as starting/ending dates of the proposed research. The research plan needs to include a general cost estimate, including living, travel, research costs, insurance, and etc. (maximum 2 pages)
- 2 reference letters (maximum 1 page each) from 2 persons. One letter should be from someone in a position to comment on your academic qualifications and professional work while the other should be a confirmation letter from your prospective host who can provide research or work facilities to you during the proposed period.
- Your Curriculum Vitae
- 1 copy of your doctoral certificate or your highest academic degree
- 1 passport size photograph of yourself
- 1 list of your academic publications or professional achievements in chronological order containing information on all authors, place and year of publication and page references.
Application Deadline: October 15th, 2024.
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