West African Research Center Travel Grant for African Researchers and Students 2021

The West African Research Association (WARA) announces the 2021/2022 Travel Grant for African scholars and graduate students undertaking research to visit other institutions on the continent.

The WARC Travel Grant promotes intra-African cooperation and exchange among researchers and institutions by providing support to African scholars and graduate students for research visits to other institutions and regions in Africa.

About West African Research Association (WARA)

WARA is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to the promotion of research on West Africa and the diaspora, scholarly exchange, the dissemination of accurate information on West Africa and its diasporic communities, and increasing awareness of the critical place of West Africa in the global community. Founded in 1989, WARA’s mission is to promote research and scholarly exchange between West African and US scholars and institutions through its research fellowships, conferences, and publications; and through the many programs headquartered at WARA’s research center in Dakar,... read more

WARC Travel Grant

Aim and Benefits of WARC Travel Grant

The WARC Travel Grant will provide travel costs up to $1,500 and a stipend of $1,500.

Requirements for WARC Travel Grant Qualification

To be eligible for the West African Research Center Travel Grant 2021/2022, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a scholar or graduate student from any West African country.
• Must have affiliations with African colleges, universities, or research institutions.
• Demonstrate excellent academic and research abilities.

Documents Required for Application

• Abstract (50-80 words) of proposed activity with a clear statement of purpose
• Project/Research description (6 double-spaced pages maximum) including why travel is necessary (must be in  language understandable to non-specialist readers)
• Proposed budget
• Curriculum vitae (with research and teaching record)
• Photocopy of the applicant’s passport (must be a West African national)
• All applications must be submitted online in PDF documents
• All applicants must have a recommendation letter.
• If attending a conference: – an abstract of the paper to be read – letter of acceptance to the conference
• If visiting another institution: – invitation from host institution
• If travel is to consult archives or other materials: – a description of the collections to be consulted and their significance to the applicant’s research
• If you are a graduate student: – letter of recommendation from professor overseeing your research

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Your application will include the following:

• The application form filled out completely.
• Personal and Contact Information.
• Educational background and Family Information.
• Statement of need should describe why scholarship funds are needed and what the funds will be used for if received.
• Essays are strong criteria in determining candidates who are shortlisted. Responses to essay  that address career goals and how you expect the WAAW scholarship will assist in your education. Please have your essay responses ready before you begin the application.
  1. In 500 words or less, please write an essay on your future career goals and how you expect the WAAW foundation scholarship will assist in fulfilling those goals.
  2. In 300 words or less, please describe what you believe about female education in Africa and its impact on research, development or advancement in African economies.
  3. In 500 words or less, what is your proudest achievement to date
  4. Describe in ten or less sentences why you need a scholarship. Tell us about your need or personal/family/financial situation and how the funds from the WAAW scholarship will assist your education and/or career plans.

For more details, visit WAAW Foundation website.