The German Academic Exchange Service or DAAD, has launched a grant initiative focusing on African countries with large numbers of refugees. ‘Leadership for Africa’ offers talented young Africans an opportunity to attend masters degree programs in Germany.

Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office with around €2.5 million (US$3 million) a year, the initiative is starting off with refugees as well as nationals from Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda and Sudan. All four of these countries currently accommodate large numbers of refugees.

According to DAAD President Joybrato Mukherjee, the Program will offer young people experiencing hardship the opportunity to continue with their studies. He further explains that the masters program, which contains a substantial back-up package, will enable grant-holders to take up a responsible role in developing their country once they have graduated.

“Our grant program is providing a high-quality and comprehensive education option in Germany for appropriately qualified refugees.”

Alongside the masters program for which the students enroll at a German university, they are offered a wide range of courses on the concept of democracy, constitutionality and sustainable economic and social development.

Furthermore, the grant scheme comprises a German language course, insurance and travel cost coverage, and family benefits where needed.

In addition to bachelor degree, holders who have been officially recognized as refugees by the governments of Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda and Sudan, the program is open to bachelor degree holders from these four countries themselves.

A total of 55 grants are planned for each year, and graduates can submit applications until mid-October. The DAAD regional office in Nairobi, Kenya, will provide more details and advice for those interested.

Photo courtesy / Google

Article by Jedidah Mwangi

https://www2.daad.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/en/77520-daad-launches-leadership-for-africa/