Applications are invited for the first Christof Heyns Human Rights Scholarship, for doctoral (PhD) study in human rights at the University of Pretoria in 2026.
At a glance
- Who it’s for: Current or prospective doctoral candidates in human rights at the University of Pretoria who are citizens of an African country and can demonstrate a need for economic support.
- Value: R270 000, provided for a maximum of three calendar years (reviewed annually, subject to satisfactory academic progress).
- Closing date: 30 January 2026.
Who is offering this scholarship?
The scholarship is offered through the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, and is instituted in memory of the late Prof Christof Heyns.
Eligibility
- Meet the requirements for admission to doctoral studies in human rights at the University of Pretoria.
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Have an excellent academic record (based on previous tertiary studies).
- Demonstrate a need for economic support to achieve academic goals.
Closing date
30 January 2026.
How to apply
Submit your application by email to: carole.viljoen@up.ac.za.
Your application must include:
- A motivation letter explaining how you meet the eligibility criteria
- At least two letters of support (with referees’ contact details)
- Prospective doctoral students: a brief research proposal (around five pages) covering the research problem, literature positioning, research question(s), and method/methodology
- Currently registered doctoral students: a progress report by the supervisor
- Your most recent academic results
Enquiries can also be directed to carole.viljoen@up.ac.za.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting after the closing date.
- Leaving out referee letters or forgetting to include referees’ contact details.
- Not addressing economic need in your motivation letter.
- Sending a proposal/progress report that doesn’t match your status (prospective vs currently registered).
Source: University of Pretoria (Centre for Human Rights).