This year’s edition of MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa is now open. If you are a passionate young African, committed to driving cooperation and progress across the continent, The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) invites applications for its Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa.
The programme supports outstanding African students to pursue postgraduate studies within Africa—but outside their home country, while receiving leadership training and mentorship designed to shape the next generation of transformative leaders.
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About the MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa
Launched in 2017, the MINDS Scholarship Programme aims to nurture a pool of young African leaders who are dedicated to the continent’s unity, growth, and prosperity.
Through this initiative, students gain not only academic knowledge but also cultural exposure by studying in another African country. This helps build a network of like-minded leaders who will promote cross-border collaboration and sustainable development.
Scholarship Coverage
Depending on the type of award (full or partial), MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- One return ticket per academic year
- A fixed living stipend
MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa | Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the MINDS Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country, residing anywhere on the continent.
- Have been formally accepted by one or more MINDS-preferred institutions outside their home country.
- Have achieved at least 70% in each subject in the last two years of study.
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential through achievements, community work, or professional experience.
- Submit a complete online application with all required supporting documents.
Preferred Institutions
Applicants must be accepted into one of the MINDS-preferred universities, including:
East Africa
- African Leadership University, Rwanda
- Carnegie Mellon University, Rwanda
- Makerere University, Uganda
- Strathmore University, Kenya
- Universidade de Cabo Verde, Cape Verde
- Université Libre de Kigali, Rwanda
Southern Africa
- University of Cape Town, South Africa
- University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
- University of Mauritius, Mauritius
- African Leadership University, Mauritius
- Universidade Agostinho Neto, Angola
North Africa
- Al Akhawayn University, Morocco
- Université Mohammed V, Morocco
- Cairo University, Egypt
- Alexandria University, Egypt
West Africa
- University of Ghana, Ghana
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
- University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Pan-Atlantic University, Nigeria
- Cheikh Anta Diop University, Senegal
How to Apply
Applications are now open for students beginning postgraduate studies in the next academic year. To apply for MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa, follow the steps below:
Steps to Apply:
- Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Prepare PDF copies of the following:
- Passport bio-data page
- Academic transcripts (last two years)
- Official university acceptance letter
- Valid study permit or proof of application (optional)
- Detailed CV (max. 4 pages)
- Two reference letters (max. 3 pages each)
- Complete the online application form via the MINDS official portal.
Important Guidance
- Submit all required documents before the deadline
- Clearly demonstrate your Pan-African mindset, leadership ability, and academic excellence.
- Applicants are encouraged to consider universities outside South Africa due to high competition.
- Special scholarships are available for studies in Actuarial Science, Business Science, and Accounting.
- There are two dedicated slots for South African citizens wishing to study elsewhere in Africa.
MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa – FAQs
1. What level of study does the scholarship cover?
Postgraduate (Honours or Master’s) studies only.
2. Can I apply if I have not yet received an acceptance letter?
No. You must first receive official admission from a MINDS-preferred institution.
3. Does the scholarship cover travel costs?
Yes, it includes one return ticket per duration of study.
4. Can I apply to multiple universities?
Yes, but you must upload an acceptance letter from at least one eligible institution.
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