About this role
2027 African Development Bank Group Shanghai Ocean University Scholarship Master Degree Program
Introduction
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) and the Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU) are pleased to invite qualified African candidates to apply for the 2027 SHOU Scholarship Programmes.
In line with the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024-2033), the scholarship programme seeks to strengthen Africa’s human capital and multilingual communication capacity by nurturing a new generation of highly qualified translators and interpreters, equipped to operate effectively in the global language services industry.
SHOU is a globally recognised, research-oriented university specialising in marine science, aquaculture and ocean governance. It collaborates with more than 40 international institutions and organisations, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable aquatic development and food systems.
Founded in 2006, the College of Foreign Languages offers undergraduate programmes in English, Japanese and Korean. It also runs two master’s programmes and five teaching departments, including a dedicated Chinese teaching unit serving international students.
SCHOLARSHIP COVERAGE
For all successful candidates, the scholarship will cover:
- Full tuition, accommodation, meals, and monthly stipends;
- Access to experienced faculty, language-learning resources, and relevant academic and research facilities;
- Specialised academic and professional training in translation, interpreting, foreign languages and area studies.
Please note: Successful candidates will be responsible for the cost of their flight tickets and visa fees.
The AfDB and SHOU warmly invite qualified candidates from across Africa to take up this opportunity to develop advanced expertise in translation, interpreting, foreign languages and area studies, while strengthening the continent’s multilingual communication capacity.
PROGRAMMES & REQUIREMENTS
- Master of Translation and Interpreting (MTI) (Chinese-taught, 3 years)
The programme trains high-level translators and interpreters for the global language services industry, covering translation practice, conference interpreting and modern translation technology.
- Language requirements: HSK Level 5 or above
- Master of Foreign Languages and Literatures (Area Studies) (English-taught, 3 years)
The programme is centred on Area Studies, covering regional languages, cultures, politics and economies, with particular emphasis on ocean civilisation and global governance. It welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, including public policy, international relations and other social science and humanities disciplines. Students with STEM backgrounds wishing to change study track are also welcome to apply.
- Language requirements: IELTS 6.0/ TOEFL 80 or above
Applicants must be nationals of an AfDB Regional Member Country.
Applicants to either programme must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and must not be older than 30 years as at 1 September 2027.
Applicants are encouraged to contact potential SHOU supervisors in advance. The full supervisor directory is available at the link below
IMPORTANT NOTICE
- Applicants must complete and submit the online application form. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding the next steps, which may include an online interview with SHOU.
- Successful applicants are expected to comply with all SHOU rules, regulations and codes of conduct.
- This scholarship does not confer employment status with the African Development Bank Group.
This position is not a regular position of the African Development Bank.