Blue Economy Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded UBC Opportunity for East African Professionals (Apply Before April 30)

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in partnership with the globally renowned University of British Columbia (UBC), has launched an exciting opportunity for professionals in East Africa through the Blue Grant Scholarship under the BE-Prosper Project.

This highly competitive and impactful scholarship is designed to build regional expertise in the blue economy, focusing on sustainable ocean management, fisheries, and marine governance across the IGAD and Horn of Africa region.

If you are passionate about marine resources, sustainability, and regional development, this opportunity could shape your academic and leadership journey at one of the world’s top universities.

Application Deadline

The deadline to submit your screening application is April 30, 2026.

About the Blue Grant Scholarship (BE-Prosper Project)

The Blue Grant Scholarship is part of the Building Blue Economy Resilience and Prosperity in IGAD & Horn of Africa (BE-Prosper) initiative. This program aims to:

• Strengthen regional capacity in blue economy leadership
• Enhance knowledge in fisheries value chains and management
• Improve coastal governance and marine spatial planning
• Promote sustainable ocean and marine resource management

This initiative is especially critical for countries in the Horn of Africa, where marine and coastal resources are key drivers of economic growth and environmental sustainability.

Why Study at the University of British Columbia (UBC)?

The University of British Columbia is globally recognized for excellence in:

• Fisheries economics and management
• Environmental sustainability
• Marine and ocean sciences

As a scholar, you will gain:

• Access to world-class research facilities
• Opportunities to collaborate with leading global experts
• Exposure to cutting-edge solutions in blue economy development

Program Structure: Two-Phase Application Process

The application process is carefully structured to ensure the selection of the most qualified candidates.

Phase 1: IGAD Screening

Applicants must first undergo a screening process conducted by IGAD.

Phase 2: UBC Graduate Admission

Successful candidates from the IGAD screening will proceed to apply for admission to UBC, where final selection and scholarship placement occur.

IGAD Screening Criteria

To be considered, applicants should meet the following criteria:

1. Interest in Blue Economy
   • Demonstrated academic or professional interest in:
     • Fisheries management
     • Fish value chains
     • Maritime connectivity and trade corridors
     • Coastal and ocean resource management
2. Educational Background
   • A university degree in relevant disciplines such as:
     • Marine and fisheries science
     • Environmental economics
     • Agriculture economics
     • Maritime or civil engineering
     • Human geography
     • Veterinary science
     • Community development
     • Ocean policy or related fields
3. Age Requirement
   • Applicants must be between 25 and 40 years old
4. Professional Experience
   • Must be currently working in:
     • Government or public sector
     • Private sector
     • NGOs or civil society organizations
     • International or intergovernmental institutions
5. Regional Eligibility
   • Must be from:
     • South Sudan
     • Somalia
     • Djibouti
6. Motivation and Impact
   • Strong commitment to:
     • Sustainable fisheries
     • Responsible marine resource use
     • Blue economy development in the region
7. Collaboration Interest
   • Willingness to:
     • Work with IGAD and UBC experts
     • Contribute to solving regional challenges

How to Apply for IGAD Screening

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• Letter of Interest (LoI) addressing all screening criteria
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copy of university degree

Submission Details

Send your application via email to:

• sagal.isman@igad.int
• Copy: tegueste.shimelis@igad.int 

For inquiries, contact:

• eshete.dejen@igad.int

UBC Graduate Application Requirements

Candidates who pass the IGAD screening will proceed to the next stage at UBC.

The graduate application typically includes:

1. Completed application form with fees
2. Reference letters
3. Statement of interest
4. English language test (if applicable)
5. Criminal record check
6. Identification of a thesis supervisor
7. Proof of citizenship

For full application details, visit the UBC graduate admissions portal.

Key Benefits of the Blue Grant Scholarship

Although specific funding details are not explicitly outlined, the scholarship is described as fully funded, implying support for:

• Tuition fees
• Academic training
• Research opportunities
• International exposure

Additionally, scholars benefit from:

• Participation in a high-impact regional initiative
• Development of leadership skills in blue economy sectors
• Contribution to sustainable development in East Africa

Why This Opportunity Matters

The blue economy represents one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, with immense potential for:

• Job creation
• Food security
• Environmental sustainability
• Regional trade

Through this scholarship, IGAD and UBC aim to build a network of skilled professionals who will:

• Drive innovation in marine industries
• Influence policy and governance
• Strengthen regional cooperation

Click HERE to learn more about the Blue Grant Scholarship

Final Tips for Applicants

To stand out in your application:

• Clearly align your experience with blue economy priorities
• Demonstrate real-world impact in your work
• Show strong motivation for regional development
• Be specific about how the program will help you achieve your goals

Discover more scholarship opportunities on OFY HERE