The MINDS Scholarship Programme: Building Africa’s Future Leaders
Launched in 2017, the MINDS (Mandela Institute for Development Studies) Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa has successfully brought to life a vision of nurturing young leaders with a continent-wide perspective. The programme aims to cultivate individuals who can promote greater cooperation between African countries, fostering development on a larger scale.
The scholarship enables African students to pursue postgraduate studies in an African country other than their home nation. This approach allows them to experience the rich cultural and social diversity of different African communities. Through expanding access to education, MINDS facilitates the growth of open-minded leaders with shared goals, who are equipped to drive Africa’s progress forward. A more integrated and collaborative African economy promises accelerated growth, benefiting all its communities.
How It Works
The MINDS Scholarship Programme offers scholarships to African students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies outside their home countries, specifically within Africa. It combines academic support with tailored leadership development activities, aiming to produce leaders focused on Africa’s development and regional cohesion.
The scholarships are available for full-time one- or two-year Honors or Master’s degree programmes at one of the MINDS preferred institutions. The scholarship does not specify any particular course of study, allowing applicants to pursue diverse academic interests. Depending on whether a partial or full scholarship is granted, MINDS may cover the following expenses:
– Tuition fees
– Accommodation and meals
– One return ticket per study duration
– A fixed stipend
MINDS welcomes applications from individuals who demonstrate a Pan-African outlook, strong leadership abilities, and a solid academic background. Eligible students are encouraged to apply and seize the opportunity to study outside their home countries while contributing to the continent’s development.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a MINDS Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
– Be a national of an African country and reside in any African country.
– Have been accepted to one or more of MINDS’ preferred institutions outside their home country.
– Have received formal acceptance to pursue postgraduate studies in the upcoming academic year.
– Achieved at least 70% in each subject during the last two years of study.
– Provide evidence of leadership potential as outlined in the application form.
– Submit a complete online application with all required supporting documents.
More information here.
