The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) invites young African leaders to apply for the 2025 MINDS Scholarship Program for Leadership Development in Africa. This fully funded scholarship is designed to nurture a new generation of African leaders committed to the continent’s growth and unity.

The scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, airfare, and offers a monthly stipend to successful candidates pursuing postgraduate studies at top African universities outside their home country.

MINDS Scholarship Summary

• Host: Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS)
• Location: Study in Africa (outside applicant’s home country)
• Level: Postgraduate (Master’s)
• Eligible Countries: All African nations
• Benefits: Tuition, accommodation, return airfare, monthly stipend
• Deadline: Not specified

What is the MINDS Scholarship?

Launched in 2017, the MINDS Scholarship Program for Leadership Development in Africa aims to empower young Africans by offering fully funded postgraduate scholarships within the continent. Through immersive leadership development activities, scholars are prepared to drive regional cooperation and sustainable development in Africa.

Eligible Institutions by Region

East Africa

• African Leadership University, Rwanda
• Carnegie Mellon University, Rwanda
• Makerere University, Uganda
• Strathmore University, Kenya

Southern Africa

• African Leadership University, Mauritius
• University of Cape Town, South Africa
• University of 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

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be a citizen of an African country and reside in Africa
• Be accepted to study at a MINDS-partner institution outside their country of origin or residence
• Be pursuing a postgraduate degree starting within the next academic year
• Have at least 70% academic performance in the past two years
• Demonstrate leadership potential
• Submit a completed online application with all supporting documents

Scholarship Benefits

Depending on whether a partial or full scholarship is awarded, the benefits may include:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation and meals
• One return ticket per study duration
• Monthly stipend for living expenses

Required Documents

Applicants must upload the following (PDF format, max 2MB per file):

• Bio page of a valid passport
• Certified transcripts or result slips for the past two academic years
• Official university acceptance letter, including course title, duration, and start date
• Valid study permit/visa or proof of application (optional)
• Detailed CV (max 4 pages)
• Two reference letters (max 3 pages each) addressing leadership, character, and commitment to Africa’s development

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply via the official portal using the button below.

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