Apply Now: MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa 2025-2026

MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa

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The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) invites applications for the MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa. This prestigious initiative supports African students who aspire to pursue postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s degrees) at selected partner institutions across the African continent, outside their home countries.

Launched in 2017, the programme aims to nurture a new generation of young African leaders with a continent-wide development mindset, capable of facilitating greater cooperation and integration among African nations.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful candidates of the MINDS Scholarship Programme will receive comprehensive financial support, which may include:

• Full tuition coverage
• Accommodation and meals
• One return flight for the duration of studies
• Fixed stipend for living expenses
• Depending on the level of award, scholarships may cover all or part of these costs.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the MINDS Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be a national of an African country and reside in Africa.
• Have secured admission at a MINDS-preferred institution located outside their country of citizenship or residence.
• Have achieved a minimum average of 70% in each subject over the last two years of study.
• Demonstrate proven leadership potential and a Pan-African outlook.
• Submit a complete online application with all required supporting documents.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to explore institutions across the continent and consider options beyond South Africa, where competition tends to be higher.

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Application Requirements

Before submitting an application, ensure you have all necessary documents ready in PDF format (maximum size 2MB each):

• A copy of the data/bio page of your passport.
• Certified academic transcripts for the last two years of study.
• Official university acceptance letter, including:
• Applicant’s name
• Degree title
• Academic year of commencement
• Duration of study
• Valid study permit or visa (or proof of application, optional).
• A detailed CV or résumé (maximum four pages).
• Two reference letters (maximum three pages each), addressing integrity, leadership potential, and commitment to Africa’s development.

Selection Process

MINDS Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to Pan-African values. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and processed in the order they are received.

College funding help

College funding help

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review all eligibility criteria and documentation requirements before submitting their applications. Incomplete or non-compliant submissions are automatically disqualified.

About the MINDS Scholarship Programme

According to Dr. Nkosana Moyo, Founder of the Mandela Institute for Development Studies:

“A pool of young leaders committed to facilitating greater cooperation between African countries will play a critical role in achieving the continent’s future success.”

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Through this programme, MINDS seeks to broaden access to higher education, promote cultural exchange, and build a network of like-minded African leaders working together for sustainable development. The initiative supports studies in a range of disciplines, with a particular focus on Actuarial Sciences, Business Sciences, and Accounting at leading institutions in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria.

How to Apply

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Interested candidates should apply as soon as they receive official acceptance from a MINDS-preferred university.

In “Africa”

In “Africa”

In “Africa”

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