The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africa are part of a significant initiative designed to foster the development of highly qualified professionals and researchers within the region. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship aims to provide young academics from Sub-Saharan Africa with the opportunity to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. programmes in their home or neighbouring countries. By supporting local institutions and reducing the brain drain, DAAD scholarships help strengthen universities and research capacity within Africa.
This article provides an overview of the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships, detailing the benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
What is the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship?
The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship is a programme designed to support postgraduate students (Master’s and Ph.D. candidates) from Sub-Saharan Africa who wish to study at an African university in their home country or within the region. The primary goal of the programme is to improve the academic qualifications of young African professionals and to foster sustainable development in their home countries by building capacity in higher education institutions across the continent.
Unlike international scholarships that require students to study abroad, this programme encourages students to pursue their degrees within their region. This approach helps to strengthen local universities, build networks of academics across Sub-Saharan Africa, and ensure that graduates can apply their knowledge directly to the unique challenges facing their home countries.
Why Apply for the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship?
The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships offer more than just financial support. They provide access to high-quality education at African institutions while fostering a pan-African academic network that encourages collaboration and knowledge-sharing among scholars. Here’s why this scholarship is a game-changer for African students:
1. Full Financial Support
The scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, research costs, and travel expenses, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without financial stress. It also includes health insurance coverage and, for Ph.D. students, a research allowance for fieldwork or conferences.
2. Strengthening Local Institutions
By pursuing postgraduate studies at African universities, scholars contribute to building the capacity of local institutions. The programme encourages knowledge transfer and helps strengthen research and academic standards across the region.
3. Access to a Pan-African Academic Network
The scholarship fosters networking opportunities with other African scholars, researchers, and academic institutions. This collaboration helps develop solutions tailored to the specific challenges of Sub-Saharan Africa, such as poverty, climate change, and food security.
4. Promoting Sustainable Development
The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships are specifically designed to promote development across Sub-Saharan Africa. Scholars are encouraged to use their education to address key issues in their home countries, ranging from public health and agriculture to engineering and environmental sciences.
5. Reduced Brain Drain
The scholarship programme helps combat the “brain drain” phenomenon by supporting students to study within their own region, allowing them to remain connected to their home communities and contribute to local development after graduation.
Who is Eligible for the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship?
The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship is open to postgraduate students from Sub-Saharan African countries who are interested in pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. degree at a partner institution in Africa. The key eligibility requirements are:
1. Nationality
Applicants must be nationals of a Sub-Saharan African country and must reside in one of the eligible countries. They should apply for a Master’s or Ph.D. programme at a DAAD partner institution within Sub-Saharan Africa, either in their home country or a neighbouring country.
2. Academic Excellence
Applicants should have a strong academic record. For Master’s programmes, students must have completed an undergraduate degree, while for Ph.D. programmes, applicants must have completed a relevant Master’s degree.
3. Program-Specific Requirements
Some partner institutions may have specific requirements for admission, such as academic background, professional experience, or language proficiency. Applicants must ensure they meet the criteria set by the university they are applying to.
4. Focus on Development-Related Fields
The programme focuses on disciplines that are critical to the development of Sub-Saharan Africa, including agriculture, public health, engineering, education, environmental sciences, and other related fields.
What Does the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship Cover?
The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for the duration of the postgraduate programme. The benefits include:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees at the chosen institution.
- Monthly Stipend: A stipend to cover living expenses, including accommodation, meals, and personal costs.
- For Master’s students: Approximately EUR 300 per month.
- For Ph.D. students: Approximately EUR 500 per month.
- Health Insurance: Coverage for medical expenses during the study period.
- Travel Costs: A travel allowance to cover transportation to and from the host university, including return airfare for Ph.D. students conducting research abroad.
- Research Support: Additional funding for research-related expenses, fieldwork, and conference participation, particularly for Ph.D. students.
This generous funding ensures that scholars can pursue their studies and research without financial constraints, enabling them to focus on their academic goals and leadership development.
Partner Universities and Eligible Programmes
Some of the partner institutions include:
- University of Ghana (Ghana)
- Makerere University (Uganda)
- University of Cape Town (South Africa)
- Kenyatta University (Kenya)
- University of Zambia (Zambia)
- Sokoine University of Agriculture (Tanzania)
Each partner institution offers a variety of postgraduate programmes in fields critical to Africa’s sustainable development, including public health, agriculture, environmental sciences, engineering, education, and business administration.
How to Apply for the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarship
The application process for the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships is competitive, and applicants must follow specific guidelines to be considered. Below are the key steps in the application process:
1. Choose a Partner Institution
Start by selecting a partner institution from the list of eligible universities offering the programme you are interested in. Review the specific admission requirements for the program and ensure you meet the criteria.
2. Submit Application to the University
Submit your application for admission to the university where you wish to study. Make sure to include all necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, proof of previous qualifications, and recommendation letters.
3. Apply for the DAAD Scholarship
Once you have secured admission to a partner institution, you can apply for the DAAD scholarship. The application is submitted online through the DAAD scholarship portal, where you will need to provide:
- A completed scholarship application form.
- A letter of motivation outlining your academic and career goals.
- Two letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors.
- A research proposal (for Ph.D. candidates).
- A copy of your university admission letter.
4. Await Selection
The selection process is rigorous, and applicants will be notified of the results via email. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the final selection process.
Conclusion
The DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africa offer an invaluable opportunity for young African academics to advance their education and contribute to the sustainable development of the continent. With full financial support, access to high-quality education, and a focus on building local capacity, this scholarship empowers scholars to become leaders and innovators in fields that are critical to Africa’s progress.
If you are passionate about using your education to drive positive change in Africa, the DAAD In-Region/In-Country Scholarships could be the gateway to achieving your academic and professional goals. Start preparing your application today and take the next step towards a brighter future for yourself and your community.
