The West African Centre for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT) invites applications for the fully funded WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships for the 2024/2025 Academic Year. The Scholarships are available for Ghanaian and other West African students to run MPhil programs in Development Management and PhD program in Planning for Sustainable Development.
The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships for 2024-2025 offers great opportunity for aspiring scholars across West Africa. Sponsored by the West African Center for Sustainable Rural Transformation (WAC-SRT) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), these scholarships aim to enhance academic research and foster sustainable development in rural areas of West Africa.
This post is a detailed guide aimed at assisting potential applicants in understanding the comprehensive process and benefits of the WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships, thereby encouraging more scholars to contribute to sustainable rural development in Africa.
WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships
The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships are in two categories available for Ghanaian and other West African students at the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in Wa, Ghana. The Available programmes are:
- MPhil program in Development Management (2 years, Full-Time)
- PhD program in Planning for Sustainable Development (4 years, Full-Time).
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To qualify for the WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a West African country.
- Academic Qualification: Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of Second-Class Lower Division (Second Class Upper for DAAD applicants) in fields related to sustainable rural development.
- Obtained undergraduate degree within the last six years.
- Two years of work experience in a relevant field.
- Research Proposal: Submit a compelling research proposal focused on rural transformation.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English. Knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.
Applicants for PhD in Planning for Sustainable Development will require:
- 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.
Scholarship Benefits
Financial Support
Recipients of the WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships will receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees at the host institution.
- Monthly Stipend: To cover living expenses.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance for the duration of the study period.
- Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare to the host country.
Academic and Professional Development
Scholars will benefit from:
- Research Funding: Grants to support fieldwork and research activities.
- Workshops and Seminars: Access to specialized training sessions.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers and professionals in the field of sustainable rural transformation.
How to Apply
- Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
- Detailed research proposal
- Two academic references
- Proof of language proficiency
- Submission:
- Applications can be submitted electronically through the WAC-SRT/DAAD online portal. Ghanaian applicants will use the UBIDS Online Admissions Portal at https://www.ubids.edu.gh/ with Payment of GHĀ¢180.00 at designated banks or via mobile money.
- Applicants from other countries are to post in their applications via express mail.
- Ensure all documents are scanned and uploaded in the specified format to ekuusaana@ubids.edu.gh and mueen7@yahoo.com.
- Interview:
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview.
- Prepare to discuss your research proposal and its impact on sustainable rural development.
Application Deadline
Submission of applications closes on 15th July 2024
FAQs on WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships
Who can apply for the scholarship?
The scholarship is open to citizens of West African countries who have a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields and meet the specified eligibility criteria.
What is the selection process?
The selection process involves the submission of a detailed application, followed by a thorough review by the selection committee, and an interview for shortlisted candidates.
How will the scholarship impact my career?
The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarship provides not only financial support but also significant academic and professional development opportunities, enhancing your career prospects in the field of sustainable rural development.
Conclusion
The WAC-SRT/DAAD Scholarships for 2024-2025 present a transformative opportunity for scholars dedicated to sustainable rural development in West Africa. By providing financial support and professional development resources, these scholarships enable scholars to contribute meaningfully to rural transformation.