The Research and Innovation Directorate (RID) is pleased to inform the University community that applications are now open for the Supporting STISA-2034: Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) Multilateral Research Call Advancing Africa's Science, Technology and Innovation Priorities.

This funding opportunity supports collaborative, multi-country research projects that contribute to the implementation of the African Union's Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2034). The programme seeks to generate high-quality research, strengthen regional scientific partnerships, and promote the translation of research evidence into policy and practice across Africa.

Thematic Areas

The call supports research under five thematic streams:

• Agriculture
• Health
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Technologies
• Energy
• Environment

Please note: For Ghanaian applicants, proposals are eligible only under the:

• Health and
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Technologies thematic streams.

Eligibility

The call is open to consortia comprising:

• One lead applicant institution and at least two co-applicant institutions from different participating SGCI countries (minimum of three countries).
• Eligible institutions include public and private universities, public research organizations, and governmental research institutions.
• Each participating institution must nominate a Principal Investigator who holds a full-time appointment at the institution.

Ghana-Specific Information:

Applicants from Ghana should note the following:

• Eligible thematic streams: Health and Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Technologies only.
• Maximum funding available for the Ghanaian consortium member: GHS 800,000.
• Letters of institutional support are required.
• The Ghana Card will serve as the primary form of identification for Principal Investigators and project team members.

Project Duration

Maximum period of 36 months

Application Deadline

Expressions of Interest must be submitted by 25 September 2026 (23:59 EDT).

Information Sessions:

Prospective applicants are encouraged to participate in one of the virtual information sessions hosted by IDRC. Both sessions will cover the same content.

• Thursday, 23 July 2026
  • 8:00–10:00 a.m. EDT (UTC-4)
  • Register here.
• Thursday, 13 August 2026
  • 8:00–10:00 a.m. EDT (UTC-4)
  • Register here.

These webinars will provide an overview of the call, explain the application process, answer applicants' questions and facilitate networking for consortium building. 

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the full call guidelines at: the official call page and the SGCI matchmaking platform.

Applicants interested in leading or joining a consortium are encouraged to contact RID for institutional guidance and support at  rid-grantsmgt@ug.edu.gh with lessuman-mills@ug.edu.gh or rocran@ug.edu.gh  in copy ahead of the deadline.