Women researchers in sub-Saharan Africa have an exciting opportunity to advance their doctoral research through the Women in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) PhD Fellowship 2026.
The fellowship is designed to support the next generation of women leaders in AI and machine learning, providing research funding, mentorship, technical training, and access to an international network of researchers and practitioners.
Applications are currently being accepted and interested candidates are encouraged to apply in advance. Deadline: July 31, 2026.
About the Women in AI Fellowship
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are rapidly transforming industries and research fields around the world, impacting everything from healthcare and climate action to education, economics, governance, and public policy. Despite these advances, women remain significantly underrepresented in AI-related fields and leadership positions.
The Women in AI/ML Doctoral Fellowship seeks to address this gap by empowering outstanding women scholars who are integrating AI and machine learning methodologies into their doctoral research.
This fellowship aims to strengthen women’s participation in computational and data-driven research while supporting innovative projects that impact society, science, and development.
Who can apply?
This fellowship is open to women who meet the following criteria:
- Currently enrolled in or admitted to a doctoral program at an accredited institution in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Conduct research in the social sciences or related fields.
- Demonstrates a clear intention to integrate AI and machine learning methodologies into doctoral research.
The fields of interest are:
- computer science
- engineering
- economy
- public health
- environmental science
- sociology
- demographics
- development studies
- political science
- data science
- Other related fields
To be considered eligible, applicants must create a profile on the KAIA Network platform and submit a fellowship application through the network.
Fellowship benefits
The Women in AI Fellowship provides comprehensive support aimed at strengthening both research capacity and professional development.
1. Research Grant $5,000
Selected fellows will receive a one-time research grant worth $5,000.
Funds can be used for:
- tuition fee
- Computing resources and software
- Data acquisition and analysis
- AI/ML Mentorship Support
- Research-related travel and fieldwork
- Other approved doctoral research funds
Technical AI/ML support through the KAIA network
The fellowship goes beyond financial support by connecting participants to a growing interdisciplinary AI research ecosystem.
Through the KAIA Network, fellows will receive the following information:
- Matching with AI/ML collaborators.
- Access to AI engineers, data scientists, and social science researchers.
- Skill development workshops and seminars.
- Technical training opportunities.
- Improved visibility of research projects.
This collaborative model helps researchers strengthen their technical skills while expanding the impact of their research.
Professional development and global networking
Fellows will become part of an international community of researchers working at the intersection of AI, machine learning, and social impact.
Participants will benefit from:
- Global networking opportunities.
- Interdisciplinary knowledge exchange.
- Opportunity to present research.
- Participation in seminars and events sponsored by KAIA.
- Engagement with universities, United Nations agencies, development organizations and civil society partners.
This fellowship aims to support both academic excellence and long-term leadership development in the emerging field of AI.
Knowledge sharing and research impact
As part of the fellowship, the successful candidate will contribute to the creation of open and accessible knowledge.
Fellows are expected to:
- Produce at least one open access research work.
- We will publish research articles and blogs through the KAIA network.
- We will present our findings through a webinar and seminar series.
- Contribute to the broader discussion on ethical and inclusive AI innovation.
Outputs of interest include:
- working paper
- dataset
- software package
- technical report
- research publications
This component ensures that research supported by the fellowship contributes to knowledge and broader impact on society.
Why this fellowship is important
The rapid growth of AI technology presents significant opportunities to solve complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. However, ensuring women’s representation in shaping these technologies remains a key global priority.
By investing in women researchers across sub-Saharan Africa, the Women in AI Fellowship aims to build a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive AI ecosystem while strengthening research capacity across the continent.
The fellowship also provides a valuable platform for women scholars to develop technical expertise, establish international cooperation, and contribute innovative solutions to pressing development challenges.
Application details
fellowship: Women Doctoral Fellowship in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) 2026
Qualifications: Female PhD students from sub-Saharan Africa
Funding amount: $5,000
Application deadline: July 31, 2026
Sponsoring organization: New School and KAIA Network
Application requirements: Applicants must create a KAIA Network profile and submit their application through the platform.
final thoughts
The Women in AI Fellowship 2026 is an exciting opportunity for women doctoral researchers looking to integrate AI and machine learning into their research while gaining access to funding, mentorship, technical support, and a global professional network. This fellowship provides ambitious leaders in AI-driven research across Africa with the tools, resources, and connections they need to make meaningful contributions to science, society, and sustainable development.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization providing this opportunity. For inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not submit your application or resume to GSO as it cannot be processed by GSO. Due to the large volume of emails we receive every day, we may not be able to reply to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding
