🌱 What the FACE‑NDC PhD Scholarship Is
The Facility for Action for Climate Empowerment to Achieve Nationally Determined Contributions (FACE‑NDC) is a climate‑centric initiative led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in partnership with UNESCO, UNITAR, University of Zambia (UNZA) and Copperbelt University. It’s part of Zambia’s effort to build local expertise in renewable energy, climate mitigation, and green economy research — all tied to Zambia’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
🎓 What It Covers
The scholarship is designed for PhD studies and typically includes:
✨ Full tuition coverage
✨ Research support grant (usually after the first year)
✨ Minimal living allowance paid annually
This means money for your books, research, and a bit of breathing room while you grind on that thesis.
📌 Eligibility & Requirements
To apply you’ll generally need:
- A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent academic credentials
- A strong research proposal — think 900–1,000 words that literally sings about how your work will spark green innovation or climate resilience in Zambia (this is key)
- An updated CV / résumé showing research ambition or previous academic activity
- A statement of purpose explaining your motivation and how your PhD research ties into climate action goals
- Subject alignment with natural resources, renewable energy, environmental policy or climate mitigation themes
🛠️ The Application Process
Applications (like in the 2026 call) are typically submitted via email to the project team and programme coordinators — so you’re not just entering a portal, you’re crafting a direct case to the academic community that wants impact‑driven research. Submitted materials should include your research note, CV, and motivation letter.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to:
✔ Written tests (prepared with FAO support)
✔ Interviews with a panel of academics and project partners
This adds a layer of competitive refinement — they’re looking for future climate leaders.
🌍 Why It Matters
This scholarship is part of Zambia’s wider climate action strategy — building a generation of PhD researchers who generate local knowledge on renewable energy, sustainable resource management, and climate resilience. It isn’t just funding; it’s a launchpad to becoming a voice for green innovation in Zambia and beyond.
🧭 Pro Tip for Applicants
👉 When drafting your research concept, treat it like a mission statement — align it with Zambia’s Nationally Determined Contribution goals, show measurable impact and a clear path to community/industry uptake. Think big, but make it Zambia‑rooted.
