Global Development Institute Launches New PhD Award with University of Ghana
The Global Development Institute and two partners at the University of Ghana 鈥� the (UGBS) and the (ISSER) 鈥� are delighted to have launched a new dual PhD award. The programme is the University of 野狼社区鈥檚 first PhD award to be shared with a university in Africa and will empower the next generation of Ghanaian scholars to conduct impactful research and build successful careers.
The award represents part of GDI鈥檚 efforts to build more equitable collaborations with partners in the global South, including the University of Nairobi, Birzeit University, BRAC-University and Slum Dwellers International (SDI). Such collaborations are inspired by the University of 野狼社区鈥檚 recently adopted Africa Strategy, which sets out an alternative approach to engaging with universities in Africa based on the principles of equitable partnership, co-creation, co-production, and inclusivity.
The initiative will provide six fully funded studentships to Ghanaian applicants. The second year of the programme to be spent at GDI, with the other years spent at the University of Ghana. While at GDI, students will have access to a full ESRC-level stipend, including the costs of fees, visa processing, and health surcharges. While at the University of Ghana, students will receive a stipend and have their fees covered.
PhD projects will focus on the digital and green energy transitions currently shaping global development prospects. Scholars at both institutions have strong interest and expertise in these topics, allowing them to efficiently co-supervise doctoral candidates from day one.
ISSER is the premier institute for development studies in Ghana and West Africa more broadly and we鈥檙e delighted to be partnering with GDI on this important new initiative. We鈥檝e worked with GDI on many projects over the years and the dual award offers a new route through which to deepen our research collaborations whilst training the next generation of Ghanaian experts in development studies
We鈥檙e thrilled to have launched this dual award at a time of reckoning for Development Studies. Cooperating with scholars and partner organisations in the global South is a vital part of our commitment to social justice and tackling inequalities within global systems of knowledge production and education.
As well as delivering life-changing opportunities to students, the partnership will enable capacity-sharing between GDI and our collaborators at the University of Ghana. We look forward to welcoming our first students and seeing the excellent work that emerges from their projects.
The first cohort is expected to begin their studies in the academic year 2027/28. Students with scholarships from elsewhere can also join the programme, as can those able to cover their own fees and mobility costs. Fundraising efforts are currently underway to extend the number of scholarships available as the programme progresses.
Details of the award and the call for applications will be launched in the autumn of 2026. If you鈥檇 like to keep up with the latest announcements from GDI, please or follow us on .