Kabale University, in collaboration with Lund University, Sweden, invites applications for two funded PhD positions under the RESPECT (Responsible Critical Thinking) Project.
Available Positions
Two positions are available for registered PhD students within the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Social Sciences at Kabale University.
Eligibility Criteria
This opportunity is open to:
- Currently enrolled PhD students at Kabale University (Faculty of Education or Faculty of Social Sciences) who:
- Have made progress on their research proposal or have a concept related to the human rights of marginalized groups.
- Have the endorsement of their immediate supervisors.
- Kabale University staff members who:
- Are admissible to a PhD program in either the Faculty of Education or Faculty of Social Sciences.
- Have received endorsement from their supervisor, indicating that they meet the staff development criteria for PhD studies.
Priority will be given to candidates who meet these criteria.
Application Deadline:
5:00 PM (EAT) on 14th February 2025
Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Gender equality and diversity are key priorities in building Kabale University’s research capacity.
About the RESPECT Project
The RESPECT Project is a two-year collaborative initiative between Kabale University and Lund University, Sweden, funded by the Swedish Institute (2024–2026). The project aligns with UN SDG Target 16.7, promoting inclusive and participatory decision-making, and aims to strengthen Kabale University’s research capacity on human rights.
Focusing on the Batwa community in the Kigezi region and other marginalized groups in East Africa, RESPECT fosters democratic development and social justice through research.
Benefits for Awarded Candidates
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fees for up to two years (four semesters)
- Financial support for fieldwork and research permits
- Supervision from expert researchers at Kabale University and Lund University
Responsibilities of Awarded Candidates
- Participate in the RESPECT Interdisciplinary Programme, which includes four workshops covering human rights, critical thinking, participatory research, and scholarly collaboration.
- Conduct doctoral research focusing on human rights for marginalized groups in East Africa.
- Publish research findings, with up to four journal articles required before graduation.
- Contribute to the RESPECT Project by assisting in data collection for the development of a postgraduate program in Human Rights at Kabale University.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be assessed based on:
- Proof of PhD enrollment or eligibility for staff development.
- A Master’s degree from a recognized institution.
- Language proficiency in an indigenous language relevant to RESPECT fieldwork.
- Strong research and communication skills.
- A PhD research proposal (maximum 1,500 words) covering:
- Research problem and significance
- Methodology
- Community development plan
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with names of two referees
- One-page cover letter explaining research interests
- Master’s degree certificate and transcripts
- Copy of Master’s thesis
- PhD research proposal (following the stated format)
- Sample scientific article (optional but desirable)
- Recommendation letter from the academic department head (for PhD students)
- Recommendation letter from a senior officer (for staff applicants)
Subject Line: Application – RESPECT PhD Studies
Applications should be sent to:
- Prof. Mesharch Katusiimeh (Kabale University): mkatusiimeh@kab.ac.ug
- Prof. Eva Brodin (Lund University): eva.brodin@ahu.lu.se
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an on-site interview. Final selections will be forwarded to the Scholarships Committee for formal award consideration.
For inquiries, contact the project leaders at the emails above.