DSTI–NRF Policy Fellowship Programme
National Research Foundation (NRF) and Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)
Quick Facts
A word from Eli, founder of Rise Africa Scholars
MSc Information Security — Unicaf Scholar
While you wait for a fully funded opportunity, don’t put your education on hold. I completed my MSc through Unicaf — studying online from Nairobi while working full-time. The tuition discount made it genuinely affordable, and the degree is from an accredited UK university.
If you’re serious about advancing your career now, I’d encourage you to explore it. I only recommend what I’ve used myself.
About This Scholarship
The DSTI–NRF Policy Fellowship Programme offers early- and mid-career researchers an opportunity to apply their research expertise to public policy development and implementation through placements at designated host institutions in South Africa. Successful fellows receive funding for up to 24 months along with policy engagement, professional training, and capacity development opportunities.
What This Scholarship Covers
- Annual award value ranging from R240,000 to R320,000 for up to 24 months
- Policy engagement and professional training
- Capacity development and cross-sectoral networking
- Opportunities for international exposure
Who Can Apply
- 1 Must have obtained a doctoral degree within the past 10 years.
- 2 Open primarily to South African citizens and permanent residents, with limited exceptional consideration for other applicants.
- 3 Must be registered or employed, on a permanent or fixed-term basis, at an NRF-recognised research institution or be able to secure an eligible institutional affiliation before taking up the grant.