The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa is a fully funded opportunity designed to nurture young African leaders.
Launched in 2017, the programme enables African students to pursue postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s degrees) in an African country other than their own, fostering cross-cultural understanding and a pan-African development mindset.
MINDS Scholarship 2025: Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Scholarship Name | MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa |
| Launched | 2017 |
| Host Countries | Various African countries (excluding applicant’s home country) |
| Eligible Applicants | Citizens of African countries residing anywhere in Africa |
| Study Level | Full-time Honours or Master’s degree |
| Fields of Study | Any field at MINDS-preferred institutions |
| Scholarship Coverage | Tuition fees, accommodation and meals, one return flight ticket, fixed stipend |
| Application Deadline | Not Specified |
| Preferred Institutions | Universities in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Mauritius, South Africa, Morocco, Ghana, Nigeria, among others |
About the MINDS Scholarship Programme
The MINDS Scholarship Programme aims to develop young African leaders with a continental development mindset. By studying in a different African country, scholars are immersed in diverse cultures and perspectives, promoting greater cohesion and cooperation between African nations.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the MINDS Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country, residing anywhere within the continent.
- Have been accepted to study at a MINDS-preferred institution outside their country of citizenship and/or residency.
- Be pursuing full-time postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s degree) commencing in the upcoming academic year.
- Have achieved at least 70% in each subject/course over the last two years of study.
- Demonstrate leadership abilities or potential through personal statements and references.
- Submit a complete online application form with all required documentation.
Preferred 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 – Mauritius
- University of the 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 for Development Studies – Ghana
Scholarship Benefits
The MINDS Scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Accommodation and meals.
- One return flight ticket for the duration of studies.
- A fixed stipend to support living expenses.
Required Documents for the MINDS Scholarship: Application Process
- Secure Admission: Apply and gain acceptance to a MINDS-preferred institution outside your country of citizenship/residence.
- Prepare Documents: Gather the following documents in PDF format (each not exceeding 2MB):
- Copy of passport bio/data page.
- Certified academic transcripts/results from the last two years.
- Official university acceptance letter stating the program, duration, and start year.
- Proof of study permit/visa or application (optional).
- Detailed CV/resume (max 4 pages).
- Two reference letters addressing integrity, leadership, and commitment to Africa’s development.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit the online application form on the official MINDS website.
Important Notes
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is encouraged.
- Incomplete applications or missing documents will result in disqualification.
- Preference is given to applicants with a Pan-African outlook and demonstrated leadership experience.
- Applicants are encouraged to consider universities outside South Africa to increase chances of selection.
- Two scholarships are reserved for South African citizens wishing to study elsewhere in Africa.
- Priority is given to studies in Actuarial Sciences, Business Sciences, and Accounting at preferred institutions in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria.
Apply Now
Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? Visit the official MINDS Scholarship Programme page to apply and find more information. For the direct link to the application form, https://scholarship.minds-africa.org/
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