The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is pleased to announce the first phase of the Presidential PhD Programme through its DHET international scholarships programme—as part of a strategic, high-impact initiative officially launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 12 December 2023. The second phase of the Presidential PhD Programme through the DHET will be implemented through the Department's University Capacity Development Programme and other partnerships.
The programme seeks to provide South Africa’s brightest young minds with cutting-edge research experience and expertise in areas aligned to the country’s developmental and economic priorities.
Focus Areas
The Programme prioritises research in the following critical and emerging fields:
- Renewable energy and the Just Energy Transition (e.g. green hydrogen, fuel cells, battery storage)
- Artificial Intelligence, digital innovation, and big data
- Advanced biotechnology and vaccine research
- Next-generation and modernised mining
- Health innovation and pharmaceutical R&D
- Climate-smart and modern agriculture
- High-tech and advanced manufacturing
- Social sciences addressing poverty, inequality, and unemployment
- Ocean economy (Blue Economy)
- Engineering, innovation, and future skills
Study Destinations
The programme will be implemented through existing international partnerships, with an intention to expand and deepen the offers available to South African students.
Applicants may apply for opportunities in the following countries:
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens or permanent residents;
- Hold a relevant Master’s degree;
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and research potential in one or more programme focus areas;
- Be committed to contributing to South Africa’s socio-economic and research development.
- Meet the admissions requirements of participating international universities.
Funding and Benefits
The programme will cover:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and living allowance
- Travel and visa costs
- Health insurance
- Participation in capacity-building activities (e.g., summer schools, mobility programmes)
How to Apply
The call for applications will open in August 2025. Detailed application guidelines, required documentation, and the list of participating institutions will be made available on the DHET’s website.
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing early by identifying suitable research focus areas aligned with the programme’s priorities, engaging with potential supervisors, and ensuring all academic documentation is up to date.
For more information, please contact: International Scholarships Directorate
Department of Higher Education and Training
Email:
