The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships Programme is a prestigious initiative jointly offered by the West African Centre for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). This program aims to support highly talented students from West Africa who are committed to advancing sustainable development and rural transformation in the region. By providing financial assistance and academic opportunities, the program seeks to develop a new generation of leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to address the complex challenges facing rural areas in West Africa.
The scholarships are open to students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in fields related to sustainable rural development, such as agriculture, natural resource management, environmental sciences, and social sciences. The selection process is highly competitive, focusing on candidates who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to contributing to sustainable development in their home countries. Applicants are required to submit a detailed application, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal outlining their intended area of study and its relevance to rural transformation.
Recipients of the WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships Programme receive comprehensive financial support, including coverage of tuition fees, a monthly stipend for living expenses, health insurance, and travel allowances. This financial assistance enables scholars to focus on their studies and research without the burden of financial stress. Additionally, the program offers funding for research-related activities, such as fieldwork, data collection, and participation in academic conferences, further enhancing the scholarly experience.
The academic component of the program is rigorous and multidisciplinary, designed to provide scholars with a deep understanding of the various dimensions of sustainable rural transformation. Scholars have access to state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and expertise at partnering universities and research institutions in West Africa and Germany. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and encourages scholars to engage in collaborative research projects that address real-world challenges facing rural communities.
Mentorship and professional development are key features of the WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships Programme. Each scholar is paired with experienced faculty members and researchers who provide guidance, support, and academic supervision throughout their studies. These mentors play a crucial role in helping scholars refine their research questions, develop their methodologies, and navigate the academic landscape. Additionally, the program offers workshops and training sessions focused on research skills, scientific writing, project management, and leadership, equipping scholars with the competencies needed for successful careers in academia, research, and development practice.
The program also fosters a vibrant and collaborative scholarly community. Scholars have the opportunity to connect with peers, faculty, and experts through seminars, conferences, and networking events. These interactions facilitate the exchange of ideas, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and build a supportive network of professionals dedicated to sustainable rural development. The program’s international dimension, with partnerships between institutions in West Africa and Germany, enhances cross-cultural understanding and broadens the scholars’ perspectives.
Upon completion of their degrees, scholars are expected to return to their home countries and apply their knowledge and skills to drive sustainable development initiatives. Many alumni of the program have gone on to assume leadership positions in academia, government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector, where they continue to contribute to rural transformation and sustainable development. The program’s impact extends beyond individual scholars, as their work often influences policies, practices, and innovations that benefit rural communities in West Africa.
The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships Programme is a transformative initiative that supports the academic and professional development of talented students from West Africa. Through comprehensive financial support, rigorous academic training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, the program equips scholars with the knowledge and skills needed to advance sustainable rural transformation. By fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to research and learning, the program contributes to the broader goals of sustainable development and rural prosperity in West Africa.
The West African Centre for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT) at Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in Wa, Ghana, is pleased to announce applications for the 2024/2025 academic year. Under the prestigious DAAD Scholarship program, scholarships are available for the MPhil in Development Management (2 years, Full-Time) and PhD in Planning for Sustainable Development (4 years, Full-Time).
- Masters
- PhD
Masters Scholarship
Benefits
Successful DAAD applicants will receive a two-year contract.
Masters Scholarship Courses
- Development Management
Requirements For The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships Programme.
MPhil Development Management:
- Minimum Second-Class Lower Division in a relevant field (Second Class Upper for DAAD applicants).
- Undergraduate degree must be within the last six years.
- Two years of work experience in a relevant field.
- Submission of transcripts, certificates, CV, research proposal, and a motivation letter.
- Successful DAAD applicants will receive a two-year contract.
Application Documents
- Transcripts
- Certificates
- CV
- Research proposal
- Motivation letter
PhD Scholarship
Benefits
Successful DAAD applicants will receive a three-year contract.
PhD Scholarship Courses
- Planning for Sustainable Development
Requirements
PhD Planning for Sustainable Development:
- MPhil/MSc/MA in a relevant field.
- Second degree must be within the last six years for DAAD applicants.
- Two years of research experience.
- Submission of transcripts, certificates, CV, research proposal, and a motivation letter.
- Successful DAAD applicants will receive a three-year contract.
Application Documents
- Transcripts
- Certificates
- CV
- Research proposal
- Motivation letter
Method of Application
Ghanaian applicants must use the UBIDS Online Admissions Portal. Pay GH¢180.00 at designated banks or via mobile money. Foreign applicants should post-application documents by express mail. All DAAD applicants must email scanned copies of their applications to ekuusaana@ubids.edu.gh and mueen7@yahoo.com.
Application Deadline: July 15, 2024.
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