The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Citi Foundation, has launched the Youth Co:Lab National Innovation Challenge for 2024-2025. This initiative invites young and differently-abled entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions that enhance access to opportunities and well-being for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).

The 2024-2025 challenge focuses on driving social entrepreneurship and sustainable development in collaboration with AssisTech Foundation (ATF), India’s leading organization accelerating Assistive Technology (AT) innovations for PwDs.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Inclusive and Accessible Assistive Technology (AT)
  • Inclusive Educational Technology and Skilling Solutions
  • Accessible and Inclusive Care Models

About Youth Co:Lab

Co-created in 2017 by UNDP and Citi Foundation, Youth Co:Lab aims to empower young people to accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through social innovation and entrepreneurship. The initiative was launched in India in 2019, in collaboration with AIM and NITI Aayog, and has reached over 19,000 individuals, supporting the creation or enhancement of over 2,600 youth-led social innovation and entrepreneurship teams.

Program Highlights:

  • The 2024-2025 edition prioritizes startups by and for persons with disabilities, reinforcing the commitment to disability-inclusive development.
  • The program will support 30-35 early-stage startups, providing seed grants to the best-performing ventures.
  • Young entrepreneurs aged 18–32 with innovative solutions for PwDs are encouraged to apply.

Statements from Key Partners:

  • Dr. Angela Lusigi, UNDP Resident Representative, India: “Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today.”
  • Prateek Madhav, CEO & Co-Founder of ATF: “We are excited to partner with UNDP and AIM to improve lives through Assistive Technology innovations.”

How to Apply

Young entrepreneurs passionate about solving real-world challenges for disability inclusion are encouraged to apply. The program aims to provide a springboard for innovative startups, with seed grants awarded to scale successful initiatives.

For more details on how to apply and to get involved, visit the official Youth Co:Lab page. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a meaningful impact and contribute to disability-inclusive development!

Deadline: 18th January, 2025
Apply Nowhttps://aim.gov.in/youthcolab.php

Are you a passionate entrepreneur dedicated to tackling your community’s environmental challenges?

The BMO Fellowship is a fully-funded venture and leadership program designed to provide comprehensive support to highly promising, diverse environmental sustainability entrepreneurs and leaders. It offers award-winning training in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and leadership to help advance their environmental sustainability-focused ventures and actively contribute to solving their communities’ most pressing challenges. This Fellowship is specifically intended for individuals from historically underserved communities who possess lived experience with the challenges they are determined to address.

Program Overview

The BMO Fellowship is a comprehensive venture and leadership program designed specifically for diverse environmental sustainability entrepreneurs and leaders. This program provides award-winning training in entrepreneurship, sustainability, and leadership, aiming to empower participants to advance their ventures while addressing pressing community challenges.

Key Program Details

  • Dates: March 3rd to June 26th, 2025 (16 weeks of programming)
  • Format: Weekly virtual workshops on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Mountain Time, with localized gatherings and events when possible. The program requires a commitment of 6-8 hours per week.
  • Immersive Experience: A 2-week virtual immersive starting on March 3rd, 2025, requiring approximately 10-15 hours each week, which will lay the foundation for the Fellowship’s community-oriented and cohort-driven journey.
  • Venture Development Stipend: Selected Fellows may receive a stipend of up to $6,000, contingent upon active participation and successful completion of specific program checkpoints.

What You’ll Achieve

Participants in the BMO Fellowship will gain a comprehensive roadmap for growth and scalability in their ventures. You’ll refine your pitch and present it at a high-profile Summit event. Additionally, you’ll facilitate a workshop in your community, supported by a stipend, a playbook, and team assistance.

Eligibility Criteria

The BMO Fellowship seeks:

  • Who You Are: BIPOC, women, Indigenous entrepreneurs, or community leaders committed to creating sustainable, scalable impact in environmental sustainability.
  • Venture Stage: Impact-driven entrepreneurs with proven products, traction, and revenue, ideally in the ‘missing middle’ stage. Your venture should demonstrate measurable outcomes in both impact and revenue.
  • Commitment: You must be able to commit to the full 16-week program, including the immersive experience.
  • Geographical Preference: Applicants from Arizona, California, Colorado, and New Mexico are encouraged to apply.

Application Process

  1. Application Submission: Complete the online application by January 17th, 2025. The application takes approximately 45 minutes to fill out.
  2. First Round Review: Applications will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee, looking for innovative and scalable ventures.
  3. Interview: Qualified applicants will be invited to a 20-minute Zoom interview to discuss motivations and venture details.
  4. Final Review: Promising profiles will be shared with an external Admissions Committee for final selection.
  5. Acceptance Notifications: Expect notifications by February 17th, 2025.
  6. Confirmation & Enrollment: Confirm your commitment to enroll and receive details about the “Meet the Cohort Webinar” leading up to the program.

Apply today and join a network of like-minded entrepreneurs committed to making a difference in their communities through sustainable solutions!

More Information

For further details and to submit your application, visit HERE

The Amgen Scholars Program at Kyoto University offers an eight-week, intensive research opportunity in the fields of science and biotechnology. Participants engage in cutting-edge research at one of Kyoto University’s renowned departments or interdisciplinary areas, with placements based on their interests and the available spaces in specific labs.

Program Dates

  • Period: June 6, 2025 – August 7, 2025
  • Number of Participants: Approximately 10 students

Research Areas
Amgen Scholars will be placed in one of the following research areas:

  • Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, and more
  • Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Immunology, Molecular Genetics
  • Microbiology, Molecular Medicine, Neuroscience, Pathology
  • Statistics, Toxicology, and other fields relevant to biotechnology and the life sciences

Placements
Students are matched to research labs based on their research interests. Placements include guidance from Kyoto University faculty members, with additional support from graduate students and postdoctoral associates. Scholars will work full-time, approximately 40 hours per week, on their research projects.

Educational Activities

  • Seminars & Lab Visits: Participate in seminars and lab tours led by Kyoto University faculty to discuss current research and professional topics in science.
  • Poster Session: Present the summer’s research findings at the end-of-program poster session.

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be enrolled in a university in Asia that awards a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
  • Have completed at least one year of undergraduate study by the start of the program.
  • Plan to return to undergraduate study after the program ends.
  • Possess a strong academic record and proficiency in English, evidenced by a minimum TOEFL score of 72, IELTS score of 5.5, or equivalent.
  • Express an interest in pursuing a Ph.D.

Financial Support

  • Travel Costs: Kyoto University provides an economy-class flight to and from Japan, with specifics on the travel schedule and route.
  • Accommodation: Kyoto University arranges and covers accommodation costs for all scholars (excluding Kyoto University students).
  • Scholarship: Amgen Scholars receive a stipend of 180,000 yen, disbursed in two installments.

Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium
All participants must attend the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium held in Kyoto during the program. It is an essential component of the program.

Health & Liability Insurance
Students are responsible for obtaining their own health insurance. Upon arrival, they must also enroll in Kyoto University’s Co-op Liability Insurance.

Program Requirements
Amgen Scholars must:

  • Adhere to travel and accommodation requirements.
  • Undertake an eight-week research project.
  • Participate fully in academic and social events, including the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium.
  • Submit a research poster and feedback at the end of the program.

Application Procedures

  • How to Apply: Submit an online application available from November 1, 2024, with a deadline of February 1, 2025.
  • Required Documents:
    • Statement of Purpose detailing your chosen lab and proposed research project.
    • Two recommendation letters.
    • Official academic transcript and proof of English proficiency.
    • PDF copies of all documents must not exceed 3MB each.

Visa Information
Successful applicants will need to provide a valid passport and apply for the necessary visa(s) to enter Japan. Kyoto University will assist in the visa application process.

Important Dates

  • Application Open: November 1, 2024
  • Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 (Japan Standard Time)

For more details on the program, eligibility

The 2025 Community Fellows Program is now accepting applications, with a deadline of October 15, 2024. This initiative offers twelve fellowships starting in February 2025, including:

– Two fellowships funded by the Melbourne Disability Institute, focusing on projects with a disability lens. Individuals from disability representative organizations are encouraged to apply.
– Four fellowships for those working in community organizations based in the Goulburn Valley.

The program supports research that aims to enhance service delivery, develop new services, and strengthen advocacy and research capacities. Community-based organizations receive a $7,000 grant, and fellows get a small research budget and a Collaboration Agreement outlining support and project details.

Key Details

– Information Session: An online session on September 19, 2024, from 1-2 pm will cover the program structure and application tips.

Eligibility Criteria

– Your organization did not receive a Community Fellowship in 2023/2024.
– The head of your organization supports your application.
– You are an employee with valid working rights in Australia.
– Your organization is a small to medium-sized, incorporated entity with appropriate insurance.
– You are based in Victoria and can attend events at the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus.
– You can commit 200-350 hours to the project.

Application Process

1. Submit an application form via Qualtrics, including details on your background, project aims, and expected outcomes.
2. Shortlisted applicants will be matched with an Academic Mentor and may be invited for an interview.
3. Prepare your answers offline for the application form, including details about yourself, your organization, and your proposed research project.

Application Form Details

– Personal and organization information
– A brief description of your work and organization
– A short title and description of your research project
– How the program will help achieve your aims
– How your organization will use the project outcomes

Submit your application by October 15, 2024, and join the Community Fellows Program to drive meaningful change in your community.

With full of exciting and amazing programs for Youth. I have created a List of Conferences and Youth Programs in 2025. Mark your calendars and ignite your passions. Welcome to the Opportunities Corner website. In this post, you will find brilliant opportunities worldwide including Youth Forums, Conferences, Summits, and Fellowships happening around the world. These Programs are open to all nationals. And there is no requirement for the IELTS Test. Applicants from any academic discipline can apply. By attending these short international summits you will likely make new networks and most importantly you will receive an invitation letter that will help you in getting a Visa. Discover your abilities, and explore the world through free opportunities. The list is given below.

List of Conferences and Youth Programs in 2025

Dont miss out on the opportunity. Some programs have a nominal application fee while the rest are free of cost. Do your best and give your time. The name of the program, the link, and the deadline are given below. Here you go!

1) IARC Summer School 2025 in Lyon, France (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: France
  • Duration: 5 Days in France
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 6th January 2025
  • Link: IARC Summer School

2) Discover Canada Cultural Exchange Program 2025

3) 13th IAS Conference 2025 in Rwanda (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: Rwanda
  • Location: Kigali
  • Conference Dates: 13th to 17th July 2025
  • Duration: 5 Days
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 22 January 2025
  • Link: IAS Conference 2025 in Rwanda

4) Youth Academic Forum 2025 in Thailand (Partially Funded)

  • Host Country: Thailand
  • Location: Bangkok
  • Forum Dates: 5th to 8th May 2025
  • Benefits: Partially Funded
  • Deadline: 31st December 2024
  • Link: Youth Academic Forum 2025

5) Youth Action Summit 2025 in Italy (250 Funded Seats)

  • Host Country: Italy
  • Location: Milan
  • Dates of Forum: 1st May to 4th May 2025
  • Hosted by: Centre for Diplomatic Advancement (CDA)
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 20th February 2025
  • Link: Youth Action Summit 2025

6) Global Peace Forum 2025 in Canada (Fully Funded)

It is a Fully Funded Youth Forumin Canada which covers Airfare, Accommodation, and Food Expenses during the Forum. Applicants from all around the world can apply.

  • Host Country: Canada
  • Date: May 2025 | Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Organizer: Canadian Center for Cultural Diplomacy
  • Application Deadline: March 5, 2025
  • Link: Global Peace Forum 2025

7) Future Diplomats Forum 2025 in the USA (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: USA
  • Funded by: Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance (HISA).
  • Travel Month: April 2025
  • Benefits: Fully Funded, Partially Funded
  • Deadline: 20th January 2025
  • Link: Future Diplomats Forum 2025

8) Future Leaders Assembly 2025 in Bali (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: Indonesia
  • Location: Bali
  • Duration: 4 Days
  • Dates: 11th to 14th April 2025
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 28th February 2025
  • Link: Future Leaders Assembly

9) Yenching Global Symposium 2025 in China (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: China
  • Location: Yenching Academy of Peking University
  • Forum Dates: April 17-20, 2025.
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 2nd January 2025
  • Link: Yenching Global Symposium

10) OYW Leading Summit 2025 in Germany (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: Germany
  • Venue: Munich
  • Scholarship Name: Leading Scholarship
  • OYW Summit 2025 Dates3 – 6 November 2025
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 7th July 2025
  • Link: One Young World Summit Leading Scholarship

11) Turkiye International Leadership Program 2025 (Fully Funded)

  • Country: Turkiye
  • Organized by: Voice For Rights International Association
  • Dates: 15th-17th of April 2025
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 10th January 2025
  • Link: Turkiye International Leadership Program

12) OHCHR-EAA Youth Rights 2025 in Switzerland (Fully Funded)

  • Host Country: Switzerland
  • Location: Geneva
  • Dates: 7th-11th July 2025
  • Duration: 5 Days
  • Benefits: Fully Funded
  • Deadline: 12th January 2025
  • Link: OHCHR-EAA Youth Rights Academy

Wrapping up this post. This is a complete List of Conferences and Youth Programs that are open right now. Remember to share this post with others. And don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more fully funded opportunities. 

Application Deadline: 20th September 2024

The AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective is an initiative co-funded by the European Union implemented by Oxfam, Restless Development, Search for Common Ground, Youthmakers Hub, and  ComDev Africa. AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective (AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – PoC from herein) is a four-year project that seeks to create a more youth responsive and inclusive society. The initiative is driven by five partners that combine expertise on youth-led and youth-informed work, and track record on tackling key issues of the Agenda 2063, the SDGs, and the AU-EU partnerships from a youth perspective.

AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – PoC focuses on youth – ages 15 to 35, from different backgrounds, including young people living in hard-to-reach areas, and Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) – 8,000 youth civil society groups (Africa, Europe and African Diaspora in Europe), and enablers/decision-makers (AU and EU, governments, CSOs, Corporates, other). 

Requirements

  • You are excited to Collaborate with Action-led activities organised during continental influencing spaces (e.g. if attending a key summit or conference related to the AU, EU, or the AU-EU partnership, to attend our parallel meetings or join our coalition work).
  • You have the intention to commit to being part of the Youth Advisory Board for the full project period (3.5 years).
  • You are an active young advocate, part of a youth-led organisation, collective, group or movement (formal or informal).
  • You respect others in all their diverse identities, you place trust in the knowledge and capabilities of others and you have an open attitude towards their views and opinions.
  • You can build on your own knowledge and experience as a young leader in creating social change in one or more of the following areas: youth-led development, governance, education, gender, environment, climate justice, employment, health, rights-based initiatives, community development and advocacy.
  • Experience in working with grants or budget management is an asset.
  • You are between 15 and 35 years old.
  • You have a working proficiency in English and/or French.
  • You are a current resident in one of the project’s implementing countries: Burundi, Burkina Faso, Ghana, South Sudan, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, Tunisia and Belgium.

Deliverables
For this purpose, the Youth Advisory Board Members will, among others:
1) Participate with other young people and stakeholders through online engagement spaces via our digital tools such as our project website, the Youth Voices Lab App, social media, and webinars, among others.
2) Participate in monthly online plenary meetings and 1 in-person annual gathering.
3) Be involved in the implementation of the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – PoC Action Plan.
4) Discuss and contribute to ad-hoc issues or requests.
5) Build links with similar structures and existing youth initiatives at regional, national and international level, both in the AU & EU and in the partner countries.
6) Take part in capacity-building activities in relation to their mandate.
7) Provide Activity Report upon attending external engagement / meetings / conferences in the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – PoC to highlight what has been learnt, achieved and if any challenges have been faced.

Benefits

  • The post is voluntary and allowance will be given to cover transport, communications and food expenses dependent on the assignment given.

Time Investment

  • The Youth Advisory Board is expected to be established during September 2024 in which together we will develop concrete ways of working, timelines and action plans.

How to Apply

  • You will need to fill out the digital application to be considered for the Youth Advisory Board or email your answers to infotanzania@restlessdevelopment.org. Alternatively, you can share a short video (maximum 5 minutes), responding to the questions in the application form – it is up to you!

Application procedures
All of the interested candidates should complete the form detailing why you are the perfect fit for the post. Together with your application, please submit the following:

  • Updated CV
  • Cover letter
  • All applications should be sent to infotanzania@restlessdevelopment.org by 12:00 PM midnight, EAT/UTC+03:00 of the 20th September 2024.
  • Read the Term of Reference

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Youth Advisory Board Member of AU-EU Youth Voices Lab

Application Deadline: 18 October 2024, 23:59 UTC,

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF)’s first-ever support to journalists from the Global South is an initiative to promote insightful, balanced, and impactful journalism on digital governance and its dynamics, as they are discussed at the IGF. It aims to attract journalists from the Global South who have experience with digital issues to cover the 19th Annual IGF on “Building Our Multistakeholder Digital Future”, scheduled for 15-19 December 2024 in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Recognizing the critical role of journalism in shaping the global digital discourse, this initiative seeks to amplify Global South voices. Selected journalists will have the opportunity to highlight key issues such as digital inclusion, cybersecurity, data governance, digital economy, human rights online, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. The initiative is supported by the IGF Secretariat and subject to availability of funding.

Eligibility:

1. Participants must be nationals of Least Developed Countries (LDCs)Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs)Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Low Income Countries (LICs)Lower Middle Income Countries (LMICs) or Economies in Transition [p.135] and at least 18 years old.

2. Participants must be currently employed or freelancing as a journalist with at least three years of experience in journalism, including coverage of tech or digital issues, working for a recognized media outlet or freelancing, whose work has been regularly published by a recognized media outlet.

3. By submitting an application, you hereby warrant that all information submitted by you is true, current and complete. The Organizers reserve the right to verify the eligibility of all applicants.

4. The Organizers reserve the right to disqualify any applicant if there are reasonable grounds to believe the applicant has breached any of the Terms and Conditions.

Benefits

  • Network– Participate in all IGF has to offer and connect with fellow journalists, policymakers, and experts on the digital issues of the day.
  • Learn – Gain insights into priority and emerging issues, including the development of digital cooperation frameworks like the Global Digital Compact (GDC).
  • Impact – Your reporting can drive positive change within the global digital discourse.

How to Apply
– Any journalist who meets the eligibility criteria can apply for this opportunity by 18 October 2024, 23:59 UTC, using this link: https://forms.office.com/e/P5qfMb6F3P

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)’s  2024 Support for Global South Journalists

Application Deadline: 29 September 2024!

Applications are now open for the 2025 International Program in Public Health Leadership (IPPHL) Program. The International Program in Public Health Leadership is an eight-month program for emerging leaders working in or closely with African Ministries of Health. A flagship program of the Evans School at the University of Washington, IPPHL expands the policy and leadership acumen of leaders to develop and implement lasting public policy solutions and transform health systems. The curriculum emphasizes the foundations of policy analysis, evidence and evaluation, implementation, and personal leadership development.

Requirements

  • Mid-career public health professional from Africa, working in government, for a government initiative/partner, or entity at the federal, regional, state, or provincial level 
  • Responsible for managing public health program(s) with supervisory responsibilities, either individual staff or a team; Accountable for the performance of public health programs and/or for managing front-line health workers 
  • Holds a degree related to public health or  is a medical professional 
  • A citizen and resident of a country in Africa 
  • Strong English-language skills, and the ability to articulate the various policy or program implementation challenges that they deal with in public health 

Program Details

Participation & Commitment

If accepted, you will be required to attend all live virtual and in-person components of the program including completing prep work for the session. See estimated time(s) below:

  • Orientation – virtual live sessions (February 25, 26, 27: 4 – 5:30 pm GMT): Introduction to the IPPHL program and your cohort, the policy project, executive leadership coaches, and the global IPPHL Network.
  • Independent Policy Prep – self-paced online preparation for sessions and policy project (March 3 – 28)
  • Policy Intensive – virtual live sessions (April 8 – May 22, every Tuesday and Thursday: 4 pm—5:30 pm GMT): An average of 5-7 hours per week on programmatic assignments, such as reading case studies and articles, completing self-assessments, meeting with their executive coach and faculty advisor, and participating in the live online sessions
  • Leadership Immersion – in person in Seattle, WA, USA (June 11 – June 28):  2.5 weeks of experiential learning, workshopping, networking, and individual leadership development. Full attendance is required.
  • Launch & Learn – independent policy project work; virtual touchpoints (July 22-August 19: Select Tues; 4pm-5:30pm GMT): Fellows begin applying the leadership, implementation, and policy frameworks in their places of work. The cohort convenes for four 90-minute sessions to check-in on progress with colleagues. Fellows finalize their written policy projects during these six weeks.
  • Capstone Seminar – TBD, West Africa (September 1 – 6): The cohort convenes in-person for the final after-action to assess progress and strategize how to move projects, agendas, and teams forward. Full attendance across all days is required.

Benefits

  • IPPHL makes every effort to cover most direct costs associated with the program, including lodging and airfare for the two-week Seattle Residency and Capstone Seminar. Participants are responsible for covering certain costs, such as visa fees and internet and will receive limited financial support for these expenses either during or after the completion of the program.

How to Apply

Complete personal information, employment history and education history questions. Answer 3 short essay questions limited to 1500 characters each on the following topics (please refer to application for full questions and expectations):

  • How you have used leadership and management skills to affect change in the past (or in your current role), and what personal characteristics help you effectively work through leadership challenges and influence change
  • A critical challenge that you face in your position or in your health program that you would like to address as your policy problem throughout IPPHL
  • How the leadership, policy analysis, and skills of influence learned during this program will further your career aspirations

Upload a Statement of Release from your supervisor in PDF form. This statement should come from an individual or department with the authority to release you for time spent during the in-person and virtual portions of the program, some of which may occur during work hours.Upload a Letter of Recommendation from your employer or supervisor PDF form. Your Letter of Recommendation should include:

  • Several ways that a leadership and policy program like IPPHL would support your professional development
  • One strength or specific talent you would add to the program
  • Two ways your participation in IPPHL would benefit your larger team and organization
  • A statement of willingness from your organization to participate in elements of the program that require their input such as surveys


Inquiries about the International Program in Public Health Leadership may be sent to ipphl@uw.edu

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the International Program in Public Health Leadership (IPPHL) Program

Application Deadline: October 31st, 2024

Applications are now open for the 2025 University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The University of British Columbia (UBC) is pleased to be partnering with The Mastercard Foundation to foster the next generation of African leaders. After supporting over 171 Mastercard Foundation Scholars in its first phase, The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC will provide 351 academically talented young people from Sub-Saharan Africa with access to quality and relevant university education at UBC. After graduating, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars will then utilize their learning and experiences to contribute to the economic growth and social transformation of their communities in Africa.

Apply to join the next-generation of  leaders who are committed to driving change through sustainable leadership and community-led development. We empower young people in 4 main ways:

  • Access & Thrive: Enable young people particularly women, refugees, internally displaced people and persons with disabilities, to access high quality education with intentional and tailored wrap-around support that will ignite them to be transformative leaders driving inclusive and socio-economic change in Africa.
  • Community-Engaged Learning: UBC is invested in articulating an experiential education to enable students to apply their knowledge to help address critical social and environmental issues through collaboration with diverse community partners and stakeholder. This progressive learning journey enables students to align with community aspirations. Phase 2 will deepen its existing network with partners in Africa to provide Mastercard Foundation Scholars with meaningful transition into their careers. 
  • Dignified & Fulfilling Work: Our scholars benefit from academic and social support programs such as GradStart, faculty-focused orientation, degree program specific orientations, and programs focused on student wellbeing and personal development.
  • Agency & Voice: Mastercard Foundation Scholars are provided opportunities in a variety of hands-on learning experiences and enriched educational training to develop their skills, mindsets, agency, and voice that will enable them to transition to meaningful employment and/or entrepreneurship.

Requirements:

To be eligible for consideration for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Masters’ Degree Program at UBC, the applicant must:

  • Have completed a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Not already possess a graduate or PhD degree.
  • Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
  • Be a citizen or refugee of a Sub-Saharan African country.
  • Have lived a significant part of their life in a Sub-Saharan African country.
  • Present economically disadvantaged financial circumstances.
  • Have achieved academic excellence under difficult circumstances.
  • Show leadership qualities or potential.
  • Demonstrate an interest in and commitment to giving back to their home community.
  • Be a person who requires a Canadian study permit to study in Canada.
  • Not be a person who claimed or will claim asylum or protected person status after arriving in Canada.
  • Commit to returning to Africa to apply their training and skills for the betterment of others.

Benefits

  • Tuition & BooksFlights & Immigration support
  • Room and BoardStipends for living expenses
  • Health InsuranceCareer services & Support
  • Access to a global Mastercard Foundation alumni network
  • **Social Entrepreneurship Fund (Initiative for scholars who are enterprising and want to start a venture back on the continent)

Steps to Apply

Step One: Assess Your Eligibility

  • Decide your Program(s) of Interest from the provided list.
  • Consult the Minimum Academic Requirements/International Credentials for Graduate Students, listed by country, to determine your academic eligibility.
  • Consult the program website to ensure you possess the appropriate background experience.

Step Two: Additional Tests

  • If your Bachelor’s degree was not taught in English, make arrangements to take an English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL or IELTS).

Step Three: MCFSP Application Package

  • Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application by October 31st, 2024.
  • Submit the package electronically in a single PDF document via email to mcfsp.admissions@ubc.ca.

Step Four: UBC Faculty Applications

  • Apply online as instructed upon completing the MCFSP Application.
  • Review faculty application instructions and eligibility for fee waivers.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Background:

The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) based in
Arusha, Tanzania is one in a network of Pan-African Institutions of Science and Technology
located across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The Institution has received approval by the
Government of Tanzania through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology
(MoEST) for students who intend to study at NM-AIST in the fields of Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to receive full sponsorship from the Samia
Scholarship Programme at a rate of 100% according to the NM-AIST fee structure.

In view of the above, the NM-AIST invites qualified graduates to apply for Master’s degree in
different fields of STEM as herewith attached, which are also found on www.nm-aist.ac.tz.
The applicants are reminded to observe the following selection criteria.

Eligibility criteria:

The applicants should meet the following criteria:
1) Be a citizen of Tanzania;
2) Should have high performance in his/her undergraduate degree (GPA of 3.8 or above)
in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM);
3) Should have acquired an admission letter from the NM-AIST indicating the field of
study. Those who don’t have admission letter are encouraged to apply for the same
through online application system https://oas.nm-aist.ac.tz:8443/noas/ and ensuring
they receive their admission/provisional letter before 10th September 2024;
4) Applicant should not be beneficiary of any other scholarships related to his/her
studies at NM-AIST;
5) Should submit certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates;
6) Should submit a recommendation letter from the current employer and/or previous
supervisor / educator with the emphasis of competence of the applicant on the above
study area;

7) Should submit a maximum of 2-page of Curriculum Vitae (CV);
8) Should submit a maximum of 2-page motivation letter; and
9) Females are highly encouraged to apply.

Other Instructions/Information:
1. Incomplete documents/submission or failure to follow instructions will automatically
lead to disqualification;
2. The Samia Scholarship Programme applies independently in each academic year;
Its renewal is only when the beneficiary passes a GPA of 4.0 or above in the first year
of study. Other details are found in the Higher Education Students’ Loan Board
(HESLB) guideline;
3. Only successful candidates will be informed for further instructions to apply in the
portal of HESLB or on reporting time to commence studies at NM-AIST;
4. All applications and supporting documents must be sent to NM-AIST using the
following email: samiascholarship@nm-aist.ac.tz; and
5. The deadline for submission of application for Samia Scholarship is 15th September
2024.

For Inquiries on:
• Scholarship contact – samiascholarship@nm-aist.ac.tz;
• Online Admission application Process contact – admission@nm-aist.ac.tz or call
+255737739529.