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Applications are now open for the fully funded MINDS Scholarship Programme 2025 for Leadership Development in Africa for international students
The MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa stands out as one of the most impactful educational initiatives across the continent.
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Launched in 2017 by the Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS), this fully funded scholarship aims to cultivate young African leaders who will champion regional integration, economic progress, and socio-political collaboration throughout Africa.
This scholarship is more than just financial support—it’s a call to action for future leaders who can build bridges between nations and drive transformative change across the continent.
Vision and Mission of the Mandela Institute for Development Studies
The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) was established to address Africa’s development through holistic, long-term, and inclusive strategies. At its core, MINDS believes that sustainable development can only be realized through empowered leadership rooted in African values, cultural understanding, and regional unity. Their scholarship program reflects this mission by developing a new generation of Pan-African leaders.
What is the MINDS Scholarship Program for Leadership Development in Africa?
The MINDS Scholarship Program offers fully funded postgraduate opportunities to African nationals who wish to study in another African country outside their own. The initiative covers full tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and even provides a monthly stipend and a round-trip flight ticket.
These generous benefits are aimed at removing financial barriers and enabling the brightest minds to focus on their academic and leadership growth.
Who is Eligible for the MINDS Scholarship?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country residing anywhere in Africa.
- Have secured formal admission at one of the approved MINDS partner universities outside their home country.
- Be accepted for a postgraduate degree program beginning in the next academic year.
- Demonstrate leadership experience or potential.
- Have consistently achieved at least 70% in their most recent academic studies.
- Complete and submit the online application form along with all required documentation.
Participating Universities by Region
Scholarship applicants must enroll in one of the following MINDS-accredited institutions:
East Africa
- African Leadership University, Rwanda
- Carnegie Mellon University Africa, 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
Academic Requirements for Scholarship Consideration
Academic excellence is vital. Applicants must provide transcripts showing:
- Consistent scores of 70% or higher in each subject over the past two years.
- Certified academic records and official admission letters.
Leadership Development as a Core Requirement
Unlike many scholarships, the MINDS Program prioritizes leadership qualities. Applicants must demonstrate past leadership achievements or strong potential through:
- Essay questions in the application
- Reference letters from academic or professional mentors
- Evidence of community service, student leadership, or advocacy
Full vs Partial Funding Explained
Depending on the award level, scholarships may be:
- Fully funded: Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, return flight, and a monthly stipend.
- Partially funded: Covers a portion of the expenses, such as tuition and accommodation only.
Breakdown of MINDS Scholarship Benefits
Here’s what scholars receive:
| Expense Type | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Fully covered |
| Accommodation | Provided by the university or funded |
| Meals | Included in accommodation or stipend |
| Return Flight | One round-trip flight per academic cycle |
| Monthly Stipend | Fixed amount for personal expenses |
Living Stipend and Support Structure
Each scholar receives a monthly fixed stipend to cover:
- Transportation
- Utilities
- Personal care items
- Miscellaneous living expenses
Required Documents for the MINDS Scholarship Application
All documents must be in PDF format and under 2MB each. Required files include:
- Bio/data page of your passport
- Academic transcripts from the past 2 years
- Official university acceptance letter (clearly stating the degree, year of entry, and course duration)
- Proof of visa or study permit (optional)
- CV/Resume (max 4 pages)
- Two reference letters (max 3 pages each)
How to Prepare a Winning Application
Success starts with preparation:
- Answer essay questions with clear, authentic stories of leadership
- Ask mentors or supervisors for powerful reference letters
- Ensure all documents are clear, current, and formatted correctly
- Submit before the deadline to avoid disqualification
Mandela Institute’s Role in African Integration
By supporting education across national boundaries, MINDS fosters unity. Scholars are trained to lead initiatives that connect economies, governments, and communities throughout Africa.
