Sudan-Norway Academic Cooperation (SNAC) PhD at Risk Scholarships: A Lifeline for Sudanese Scholars

The Sudan-Norway Academic Cooperation (SNAC) PhD at Risk Scholarships offer critical support to Sudanese doctoral candidates whose academic pursuits are severely disrupted by war and displacement. These scholarships aim to prevent the permanent interruption of PhD studies, enable the continuation of research under difficult conditions, and preserve academic capacity for Sudan’s future rebuilding efforts. The program specifically targets scholars facing challenges due to the ongoing conflict and the strain on higher education institutions.

Understanding the SNAC PhD at Risk Scholarships

The SNAC initiative is designed to provide a vital lifeline for Sudanese PhD students whose academic careers are in jeopardy. The program recognizes the profound impact of war and displacement on individuals pursuing advanced degrees. By offering targeted financial and academic support, SNAC seeks to ensure that these scholars can maintain their research momentum and complete their doctoral studies, thereby safeguarding their future contributions to academia and the rebuilding of Sudanese universities.

Objectives of the Scholarship Program

The primary goals of the SNAC PhD at Risk Scholarships are multifaceted:

• Preventing Interruption: To stop the permanent halt of Sudanese PhD trajectories that are directly threatened by the current war and displacement.
• Enabling Research Continuation: To allow PhD candidates to continue or finish their research projects, even when faced with severely constrained circumstances.
• Safeguarding Academic Capacity: To preserve the long-term academic potential and expertise within Sudan, which will be essential for the future reconstruction of the nation’s universities.

Scholarship Details and Funding

Each scholarship awarded through the SNAC program may include a stipend of 10,000 Euros. This financial support is intended to help cover living expenses, research materials, and other costs associated with continuing doctoral studies under challenging conditions. The funding is a crucial component in enabling scholars to focus on their academic work without the overwhelming burden of immediate financial insecurity.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the SNAC PhD at Risk Scholarships, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• Sudanese PhD Candidates: Applicants must be Sudanese doctoral candidates whose studies are demonstrably at risk due to the ongoing war.
• University Affiliation: Candidates must be currently enrolled at, or have a prior affiliation with, a Sudanese or an international university.
• Realistic Continuation Plan: Applicants need to present a practical and achievable plan for how they will continue their PhD research under their current circumstances.
• Encouragement for Female Scholars: Female PhD students from marginalized areas are especially encouraged to apply, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and support for vulnerable groups.

Focus Areas and Preferred Projects

The SNAC program particularly welcomes projects related to peace and peacebuilding in Sudan. This includes historical analyses of past peace failures, as well as contemporary studies that examine current challenges and prospects for achieving peace. The initiative also encourages critical perspectives that question and challenge dominant frameworks of peacebuilding, fostering a deeper and more nuanced understanding of conflict resolution and reconciliation.

Application Process

Interested candidates are required to submit their applications by August 1, 2026. The application package should include a proposal, which should not exceed four pages, along with the applicant’s Curriculum Vitae (CV) and any other relevant supporting documents. All materials must be sent via email to [email protected]. Applicants should clearly state “SNAC PhD at Risk Scholarship” in the subject line of their email. For further details and information, candidates can visit the SNAC PhD at Risk Scholarships page on the CMI website.

Conclusion

The Sudan-Norway Academic Cooperation (SNAC) PhD at Risk Scholarships represent a vital initiative to support Sudanese scholars facing immense challenges. By providing financial aid and a framework for continued academic work, SNAC is helping to preserve the intellectual capital of Sudan and ensure that the next generation of academics can contribute to the nation’s recovery and development. The program’s focus on peacebuilding research further underscores its commitment to fostering a more stable and prosperous future for Sudan.