Fully funded MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development: Empowering Young Africans
MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development
The MINDS Scholarship Programme is a unique initiative designed to foster the development of a new generation of African leaders who are committed to driving cooperation and integration across the African continent.
Launched in 2017, the programme seeks to empower young Africans by providing access to high-quality post-graduate education at leading institutions across Africa, outside of their home countries.
Programme Vision
The ultimate goal of the MINDS Scholarship Programme is to nurture a pool of visionary young leaders with a continent-wide development mindset. These leaders are expected to play a crucial role in facilitating greater cooperation between African nations and contribute to the economic and social advancement of the continent. The programme offers more than just education; it immerses scholars in the rich diversity and culture of different African countries, fostering cross-cultural understanding and expanding networks of like-minded leaders who are passionate about Africa’s future success.
Through this initiative, MINDS aims to broaden access to education, encourage openness to diverse ideas, and help create a cohesive, pan-African network of leaders. A more integrated African economy is poised to accelerate growth, generate positive outcomes, and ultimately benefit all African communities.
Programme Structure
The MINDS Scholarship Programme offers full-time post-graduate study opportunities for a one or two-year Honours or Master’s degree at one of the preferred institutions across Africa. The scholarship is flexible and does not specify a particular course of study, allowing recipients to pursue their chosen academic path.
The scholarship covers essential expenses for the duration of the studies, including:
- Tuition Fees
- Accommodation and Meals
- One Return Ticket for travel to and from the country of study
- A Fixed Stipend to support living expenses
This comprehensive support enables scholars to focus entirely on their studies and leadership development, without the financial burden that often comes with higher education.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the MINDS Scholarship, applicants must meet several key criteria:
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of an African country, residing anywhere within the continent.
- Institution Acceptance: Applicants must have been formally accepted to study at one of the MINDS-preferred institutions outside of their home country.
- Academic Record: Applicants must have obtained at least 70% in each subject/course over the last two years of study.
- Demonstrated Leadership: Applicants must provide evidence of leadership abilities or potential, demonstrated through the application form and supporting documents.
- Application Form: Applicants must submit a complete online application form, including all required documentation.
Preferred Institutions
The MINDS Scholarship is available for study at a range of leading institutions across Africa, categorized by region:
- East Africa:
- African Leadership University, Rwanda
- Carnegie Mellon University in Rwanda, Rwanda
- Makerere University, Uganda
- Strathmore University, Kenya
- Southern Africa:
- African Leadership University, Mauritius
- University of Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Mauritius, Mauritius
- University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
- North Africa:
- Al Akhawayn University, Morocco
- Université Cadi Ayyad, Morocco
- Université Mohammed V, Morocco
- West Africa:
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Ghana
- Pan-Atlantic University (Lagos Business School), Nigeria
- University of Development Studies, Ghana
Applicants must have been formally accepted by one or more of these institutions for post-graduate studies. If accepted, applicants are encouraged to apply for the scholarship at the earliest opportunity.
Application Process
The application process for the MINDS Scholarship is rigorous and requires careful attention to detail. Interested applicants should submit the following documents:
- Copy of the bio page of your passport
- Certified academic transcript or results slip for the last two years of study
- Official acceptance letter from the university, clearly indicating the degree, academic year, and duration of the course
- Study permit or visa (if applicable)
- Detailed CV/Resume (maximum four pages)
- Two reference letters addressing the applicant’s leadership potential, integrity, and commitment to African development
Once the application form and all supporting documents are submitted, applications will be processed in the order they are received. Successful applicants will be notified and invited to proceed with the scholarship award.
Application Deadline: Rolling
Special Focus Areas
MINDS encourages applications from candidates pursuing studies in fields critical to Africa’s growth and development, including Actuarial Sciences, Business Sciences, and Accounting. Additionally, applicants are urged to consider institutions outside South Africa, as these scholarships have a more limited pool and are highly competitive.
There are also dedicated scholarships for South African citizens wishing to study in other African countries, and MINDS welcomes applicants from all regions of Africa.
Call to Action
The MINDS Scholarship Programme is a transformative opportunity for young Africans who are passionate about leadership and dedicated to shaping the continent’s future. Through the scholarship, individuals gain access to world-class education, immerse themselves in diverse African cultures, and build a robust network of future leaders. By investing in the next generation of leaders, MINDS is helping to accelerate the continent’s progress and create a more integrated and prosperous Africa.
Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about making a tangible impact on Africa’s development are encouraged to apply. This is an opportunity not only to receive an education but to become part of a movement that will shape Africa’s future for generations to come.
