The Lasers for Net‑Zero Solar Systems Manufacture (LASOMA) scholarship supports African Master’s and PhD students in engineering fields relevant to laser manufacturing, solar systems and climate change. Funded by the European Union and African Union, the programme hosts scholars in Spain, Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya, offering comprehensive financial and academic support.
ApplyMate Quick Verdict
This is a highly attractive, fully funded opportunity for engineers interested in sustainable manufacturing. It emphasises mobility across African and European partner universities and targets women and students with special needs. With generous funding and a long preparation window, the scholarship will be competitive but manageable if you start early.
Only nationals or residents of African countries can apply. The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly allowance, travel costs, insurance and research expenses. Women and applicants with disabilities are strongly encouraged. Use the extended application period to refine your research proposal and contact potential supervisors at host institutions in Spain, Nigeria, Ghana or Kenya.
Who This Opportunity Is Best For
African students holding a Bachelor’s degree (for the Master’s track) or Master’s degree (for the PhD track) in engineering disciplines. Applicants with a clear research focus on laser manufacturing, solar systems or climate change, and a willingness to study at multiple institutions across Europe and Africa, will thrive.
Who Should Think Twice Before Applying
If your academic background does not align with engineering, lasers, solar energy or climate science, or if you have previously received a scholarship under the Intra‑Africa Academic Mobility Scheme 2022–2027, you are not eligible. Those unwilling to relocate within Africa or to Spain should also reconsider.
Why This Opportunity Matters
LASOMA addresses critical skills gaps in sustainable manufacturing and renewable energy. By training African engineers alongside European partners, it fosters technology transfer and builds capacity for climate‑resilient industry on the continent. The programme’s focus on inclusivity ensures that women and students with special needs participate fully.
Simplified Eligibility
You must be a national or resident of an African country. For the Master’s track, you need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field; for the PhD track, a Master’s degree. Your research interests must align with laser manufacturing, solar systems or climate change. You cannot have received another Intra‑Africa Academic Mobility Scheme scholarship during 2022–2027.
What This Scholarship Covers
- Full tuition at the host institutions (Spain, Nigeria, Ghana or Kenya)
- Monthly living allowance for the duration of your studies
- Travel costs to and from host countries and intra‑programme mobility
- Insurance coverage (health and accident) while abroad
- Research and participation costs for laboratory work and field visits
No‑Stress Application Steps
- Visit the official LASOMA scholarship website and review the detailed call for applications.
- Identify your preferred host and home institutions among the programme partners and develop a concise research proposal that fits the laser manufacturing or solar systems focus.
- Prepare your application materials – including degree certificates, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, research proposal and proof of residency or nationality – and submit them via the online portal before the deadline.
Documents to Prepare Early
- Certified copies of degree certificates and transcripts
- Curriculum vitae emphasising relevant engineering and research experience
- Motivation letter explaining your interest and suitability for LASOMA
- Research proposal aligned with laser manufacturing or solar systems
- Proof of nationality or residency in an African country (passport or national ID)
- Any certificates of disability or special needs (if applying under that category)
Challenges African Applicants Should Not Ignore
- The programme involves mobility; ensure you are prepared to move between host institutions and adapt to different academic cultures.
- Visa processes for Spain or other host countries may require proof of funding and insurance – the scholarship covers costs, but paperwork can take time.
- Applications require precise alignment with programme themes; a generic research proposal may not be accepted.
- Women and special needs applicants should highlight their eligibility to benefit from targeted support.
Common Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Application
- Submitting an application without a clear research focus on lasers, solar systems or climate change
- Overlooking the requirement to choose both a home and host institution
- Failing to provide certified or translated documents
- Assuming you are eligible if you have received other Intra‑Africa scholarships – this programme explicitly disqualifies such applicants
Deadline and Preparation Timeline
Deadline: 22 June 2026 (final submission date). Because the application window is long, begin drafting your research proposal and contacting potential supervisors as soon as possible. Aim to submit all documents at least two weeks before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
Final Advice
This is an exceptional chance to join a pioneering EU–AU partnership focused on sustainable manufacturing. Take advantage of the lengthy application period to craft a strong, well‑aligned proposal. Always confirm details on the official LASOMA site and be proactive in communicating with programme coordinators.
Ready to make your move?
Use the official link below to start your LASOMA application and review programme details.
Source and Verification
ApplyMate verification note: Scholarship conditions may change. Always verify eligibility, funding details and application procedures on the official LASOMA website before submission.
