The Virtual Library Programme provides Africa-based researchers with 12 months of digital access to selected e-resources at the Nordic Africa Institute’s library. Designed as a virtual alternative to physically based scholarships, the programme supports ongoing collaboration between African and Nordic researchers while expanding equitable access to research materials. Through this initiative, the Nordic Africa Institute strengthens knowledge production on Africa and promotes sustained collaboration between African and Nordic research communities. Programme Purpose The Virtual Library Programme was established to complement existing in-person scholarships by offering remote access to the Institute’s specialised library resources. A key component of the Institute’s physical scholarship programmes is access to its extensive library holdings. This virtual alternative ensures that researchers can benefit from these resources without travelling to Sweden. The programme aims to: Reduce carbon emissions by eliminating travel requirements Increase accessibility and diversity among scholars Support researchers with family or institutional commitments Advance co-creation of knowledge Bridge African and Nordic research perspectives The initiative aligns with the Institute’s 2022–2026 strategic objectives, particularly strengthening collaboration and long-term academic partnerships. Duration Participants receive digital access for 12 months, which is longer than the Institute’s physical scholarship programmes. The extended duration recognises that researchers remain based at their home institutions and may have parallel teaching, research, or administrative responsibilities. The longer timeframe allows sustained and meaningful use of the resources. Programme Benefits Participants gain digital access to a curated selection of Africa-focused e-resources, alongside an introductory Zoom session to support effective use of the materials. The Institute’s library specialises in contemporary Africa within the social sciences and humanities. The programme includes Africa-specific resources that complement, rather than duplicate, general university e-journal packages. Standard e-journal bundles are not included. Current e-resources available through the programme include: African Books Collection – African Studies Portfolio (206 titles from publishers across Africa, regularly updated) African Writers Series (330 full-text editions of modern African literature) AllAfrica (aggregated news and archives dating back to 1996) CAIRN – African & Middle Eastern Studies Bouquet (17 e-journal titles) Oxford Bibliographies Online (African Studies and Geography) Oxford Research Encyclopedias – African History SA News & SA Media (South African news archives from 1978 onward) Sabinet Social Sciences and Humanities Journal Package (215 titles, primarily from Southern Africa) These resources enhance access to Africa-centred scholarship and primary materials that may be limited in less well-resourced institutions. Programme Limitations The 12-month digital access does not include financial or in-kind support. Access is limited to the selected e-resources listed under the programme. Resource availability may change over time depending on publisher agreements. A limited number of places are available. Selection is guided by the Institute’s strategic priorities, particularly where capacity development support can be most impactful. Eligibility Criteria The programme is open to researchers based in Africa who are engaged in Africa-oriented research within the social sciences and humanities. Research must focus on contemporary Africa and align with the principles of the UN Agenda 2030, as reflected in the Institute’s five impact areas. Eligible applicants include: PhD students employed by an African-based university or research centre Researchers employed by an African-based university or research centre Applicants must have an active and established collaboration with a researcher in a Nordic country (Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, or Iceland) Priority will be given to: Researchers from less well-resourced institutions Applications supporting equitable gender and geographic distribution Application Process Applicants must apply online and submit the following documentation: Description of research project Signed letter of support from the collaborating Nordic researcher Signed letter of support from the applicant’s Head of Department or senior scholar confirming current affiliation and research field Applications must be submitted in English. Incomplete applications will not be considered. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the virtual scholarship. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.