Global Mental Health Conference 2027 Offers Scholarships for African Mental Health Researchers, Students and Advocates
The Science for Africa Foundation and the Mental Health Innovation Network have announced a limited number of scholarships for individuals who would otherwise be unable to attend the Global Mental Health Action Conference 2027 (#GMHAC2027) because of financial constraints.
The initiative aims to ensure that important voices working on mental health in Africa have the opportunity to participate in the conference, contribute to discussions and connect with researchers, policymakers, practitioners and people with lived experience from across the continent and beyond.
Scholarship places are limited and competitive, with priority given to applicants based in Africa for whom financial support is essential to attend the conference.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to individuals who fall into one of the following categories:
- Early-career researchers working in mental health research, practice or policy.
- Students involved in mental health-related work or studies. Student applicants must provide a letter of support from their institution or supervisor.
- People with lived experience of mental health conditions or psychosocial disabilities.
- Other applicants with a demonstrated connection to mental health in Africa. Applicants in this category should clearly explain their connection to mental health in Africa in their application.
The scholarship programme is designed to support diverse perspectives and encourage meaningful participation from people contributing to mental health research, policy and services across Africa.
What Can the Scholarship Cover?
Applicants can request financial support for one or more of the following expenses:
- Conference registration fees
- Travel costs
- Accommodation
- Other essential costs, which should be clearly specified in the application
Applicants can request support for any combination of these expenses, depending on their individual circumstances and needs.
What Do Applicants Need to Submit?
The application is completed online and requires applicants to provide several pieces of information and supporting documentation.
1. Personal Details
Applicants will need to provide:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Country of residence
- Institution or organisation
- Current role
2. Motivation Statement
Applicants must explain why they want to attend #GMHAC2027 and how participation would contribute to or impact their work.
The motivation statement must be no longer than 300 words.
3. Impact and Contribution Statement
Applicants should describe how their work contributes to advancing:
- Mental health research;
- Mental health policy;
- Mental health services in Africa; and
- The meaningful involvement of people with lived experience or community engagement.
This section gives applicants an opportunity to demonstrate the relevance and potential impact of their work.
4. Financial Need Statement
Applicants must explain why financial assistance is necessary for them to attend the conference.
The financial need statement has a maximum limit of 300 words.
5. CV or Résumé
A current CV or résumé must also be submitted as part of the application.
6. Recommendation Letter
A recommendation letter is mandatory for student applicants.
For applicants in other categories, a recommendation letter is strongly encouraged and can help support the application.
Scholarships Are Limited and Competitive
Applicants should be aware that scholarship places are strictly limited. Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee that an applicant will receive funding.
All information submitted must be accurate and complete, and scholarships are non-transferable.
Successful applicants will receive additional information about the specific scholarship coverage and any participation requirements after the selection process.
When Will Applicants Be Notified?
All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application by email.
Those selected for a scholarship will receive further details regarding the financial support provided and the requirements associated with participating in #GMHAC2027.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can submit their scholarship application online:
Apply for the GMHAC2027 Scholarship
Applicants are encouraged to carefully prepare their motivation, impact and financial need statements before submitting the application.
Questions and Enquiries
Applicants who have questions or require clarification about the scholarship programme can contact the organisers by email at gmhac@scienceforafrica.foundation.
The subject line should be:
“Scholarship Application Help”
Enquiries will be answered Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 17:00 EAT, during the application submission period.
An Opportunity to Bring African Mental Health Voices to the Global Stage
The GMHAC2027 scholarship programme provides an important opportunity for researchers, students, people with lived experience and other mental health advocates connected to Africa to participate in an international forum.
For applicants who face financial barriers, the scholarships could help remove some of the costs associated with attending the conference while providing an opportunity to share knowledge, build professional networks and contribute to conversations shaping the future of mental health in Africa.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and financial support is essential for your participation, this scholarship opportunity may be worth exploring.
https://gmhac2027.scienceforafrica.foundation/scholarship-application-gmhac20272027