Apply for the ABE Initiative 2026 Master’s Scholarships in Japan for African Youth

 The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has officially announced the call for applications for the African Business Education Initiative for Youth (ABE Initiative) 2026. This is a fully funded Master’s scholarship program designed for young African professionals who are committed to contributing to Africa’s industrial and business growth. The program provides the unique opportunity to pursue postgraduate education at leading Japanese universities while also participating in internships at Japanese companies.

This scholarship is a rare chance to gain advanced academic training, professional experience, and to strengthen Africa–Japan cooperation through practical skills and international networking.

About the ABE Initiative 2026

The ABE Initiative is part of the JICA Knowledge Co-Creation Program (KCCP) and was launched at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD). Its aim is to provide African youth with the knowledge and skills needed to become drivers of development and to foster mutual growth between Africa and Japan.

The 2026 program will select participants from across the 54 African countries. Scholars will enroll in Master’s programs at partner Japanese universities, engage in research projects, and complete an internship with a Japanese company.

Objectives of the Program

1. To develop highly skilled human resources who can contribute to Africa’s industrial and business growth.

2. To create bridges between African and Japanese businesses, fostering long-term partnerships.

3. To strengthen the human networks that support cooperation between Japan and Africa in government, academia, and the private sector.

Program Structure and Duration

• Start Date: September 2026
• End Date: August 2029 (maximum duration)
• Program Components:

Up to 6 months as a research student (if required)

1–2 years as a Master’s student

Internship in a Japanese company or organization

Fields of Study

Applicants can pursue Master’s degrees in fields that align with Africa’s development priorities and Japan’s areas of expertise. Eligible study areas include:

• Public Policy and Administration

• Business, Trade, and Investment

• Finance and Public Finance Management

• International Relations and Diplomacy

• Disaster Risk Reduction

• Maritime Affairs

• Regional and Development Studies

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the ABE Initiative 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Nationality: Be a citizen of one of the 54 African countries.
2. Age: Under 40 years old as of April 1, 2026.
3. Education: Hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum of 16 years of formal education).
4. Work Experience:

• Applicants from government institutions must have at least 6 months of work experience in their current role and must secure official approval from their employer.

• Applicants from the private sector must have relevant professional work experience but must not be employed by Japanese companies at the time of application.

1. English Proficiency: Adequate command of English (TOEFL iBT 80, IELTS 6.5, or CEFR B2 equivalent).

2. Health: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health and submit a medical certificate.

3. Other Conditions: Applicants must commit to returning to their home countries after completing the program.

Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded by JICA)

JICA covers all major expenses for successful applicants. The financial support includes:

• Tuition Fees: Fully covered (paid directly to the host university).

• Living Allowance:

  • JPY 143,000 – 148,000 per month

  • Approx. USD 970 – 1,005

  • Approx. RWF 1,280,000 – 1,325,000

• Airfare: Round-trip ticket between the home country and Japan.

• Outfit Allowance (one-time):

  • JPY 100,000

  • Approx. USD 670

  • Approx. RWF 895,000

• Moving Allowance (one-time):

  • Up to JPY 224,000

  • Approx. USD 1,500

  • Approx. RWF 2,000,000

• Research Support Allowance (annual):

  • Up to JPY 360,000 per year

  • Approx. USD 2,400

  • Approx. RWF 3,220,000

• Medical Insurance: Coverage for illnesses or injuries incurred after arrival in Japan.

Expenses Not Covered

Applicants are responsible for costs such as passport fees, visa fees, domestic travel in their home country, excess baggage, medical costs for pre-existing conditions, and other personal expenses not listed above.

Selection Process and Timeline

The ABE Initiative follows a rigorous selection process:

1. First Selection (Document Review): August – October 2025

   • Submit application documents to the JICA office in your home country.

2. Second Selection (Interview): August – November 2025

   • Interviews conducted by JICA country offices.

3. Third Selection (Pre-Matching): December 2025 – January 2026

   • Screening by Japanese universities based on research plans and transcripts.

4. Fourth Selection (Final University Examination): February – July 2026

   • Final screening by the university including entrance exams and interviews.

5. Results Announcement: July – August 2026

   • Official notification of successful candidates.

6. Departure to Japan: September – October 2026

Application Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• JICA Application Form

• Personal information and educational background

• Work experience and employer nomination (if government employee)

• Research plan and career plan

• Certified copy of Bachelor’s degree certificate

• Academic transcripts (with official English translation if needed)

• Proof of English proficiency test results

• Copy of passport or national ID

• Two passport-sized photos (4 cm × 3 cm)

• Health certificate issued after April 1, 2026

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the JICA office in your country of nationality. Each country sets its own deadlines, so applicants are advised to contact their local JICA office or relevant ministry for details.

Documents to use are available through here

Why You Should Apply

The ABE Initiative is more than just a scholarship. It is an opportunity to:

• Obtain a world-class Master’s degree in Japan.

• Participate in an internship with a Japanese company to gain practical skills.

• Build lasting networks with Japanese and African professionals.

• Contribute directly to Africa’s development while deepening ties with Japan.