Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship – Fully Funded

The Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship is an opportunity for ambitious African students who have lost one or both parents. It offers full financial support to study abroad at top universities, along with leadership training and personal development. This scholarship emphasizes building future leaders who will return to their respective countries to make a real impact.

Each year, the program selects bright young minds from across sub-Saharan Africa and supports them from the application phase through university graduation. What makes the Ashinaga Africa Initiative unique is its commitment to developing not only scholars but changemakers who are passionate about improving their communities.

An Overview of the Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship

The Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship is a fully funded program created by the Ashinaga Foundation, a Japan-based non-profit to support orphaned students. The initiative specifically targets talented African students who have lost one or both parents and are committed to making a difference in their home countries.

This program goes beyond just offering financial aid. Selected scholars receive extensive support through academic preparation, leadership development, and emotional guidance. Before entering university, students go through a one-year preparatory program called the Ashinaga Study Camp, designed to equip them for success at leading universities around the world.

What truly sets Ashinaga apart is its focus on leadership. Through mentorship, training camps, and career guidance, you’ll be prepared not only to succeed in the classroom but also to become a future leader in your country. The program invests in students who are passionate about community development and willing to return home to drive change.

Students also gain access to a global network of scholars and professionals.

See Also:

Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program (CFSP)

Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Benefits and Application Tips

Who is Eligible for the Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship?

To qualify for the Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. This scholarship is designed for highly motivated African students who have lost one or both parents and are committed to returning to Africa after their studies to make a difference.

Starting from August 2024, the Foundation no longer accepts applications for students in Anglophone countries. Instead, they partner with selected high schools in each Anglophone country to identify and select eligible students.

Applications will continue to be open for students in Francophone and Lusophone countries.

The applicants must:

• Be a citizen of one of the following countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Comoros, Republic of Congo (Brazzaville), Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa), Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Gabon, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Seychelles, Chad and Togo.
• Have obtained an average of over 14/20 in the baccalauréat or over 75% in the state exam.
• Have obtained excellent marks in their bachelor’s degree.
• Can participate in the online sessions organized as part of the Orientation Program from October to December 2025. This means that the student has access to a computer and a stable connection for a few hours a week.
•  Are committed tò returning home or elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa, to actively contribute to African society after graduation.
• Have no dependents to interfere with their studies.
• Are in good health́ and able to study internationally.

Please note that Ashinaga does not support students wishing to study medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy or Law with an exception of international law.

Ashinaga wants students with a clear vision for how they will contribute to their home communities. Leadership potential, resilience, and a genuine desire to give back are important factors in the selection process.

You can also review full eligibility details on the Ashinaga official page.

How to Apply for the Ashinaga Africa Initiative Scholarship

Here is how to apply for the scholarship:

1. Gather Required Documents:

• • National ID or passport
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Death certificate(s) of deceased parent(s)
  • Passport-sized photo
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal essays (motivation and future goals)

2. Complete the Online or Paper Application:
You can apply through the online portal or submit a paper application to Ashinaga’s regional offices.

3. Submit Before the Deadline:
Ensure all documents are complete and correctly uploaded. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

4. Participate in Interviews:
Shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews and sometimes written assessments.

Applications for the AAI are only done online. If you have difficulties filling out the forms, email the Foundation at admissions.fr@ashinaga.org.

See Also:

ERP Study Scholarship: Fully Funded Master’s in Germany

Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford University: Fully Funded Graduate Opportunity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I choose where I want to study?

This will be decided during the Ashinaga Study Camp for students selected for this programme. It will be decided together with the student, but the final decision ultimately lies with Ashinaga. It will depend on numerous criteria, including academic grades, and the availability of the student’s desired course of study.

Is Japanese required to apply?

No. Most students study in France.

I do not have one of the required documents. What should I do?

All of the required documents listed are necessary to apply, particularly proof of age and proof of the death of a parent. If you do not have a death certificate, then any other official document can be considered, including a court record, affidavit, or an official letter from a local government official.

What is assessed during the Ashinaga interview?

Applicants are assessed on their knowledge and aptitude, challenges faced and future planning and initiative. You will be assessed through an examination and interviews.

I have received another scholarship in France. Can I combine it with the Ashinaga scholarship?

No, the financial support cannot be combined with other similar scholarships.