Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship 2023: Funding Postgraduate Studies and Leadership Development in Africa. Learn about the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship program for 2023, which offers financial support for postgraduate studies and a leadership development program aimed at strengthening leadership skills in Africa. Find out about the eligibility requirements, application process, and key dates.
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation, established in 2002 with the aim of fostering leadership capabilities in Africa, is now inviting qualified individuals to apply for the Mandela Rhodes scholarships programme for 2023. The programme not only provides financial support for postgraduate studies but also offers a leadership development component that seeks to strengthen leadership skills across the African continent.
Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship 2023: Funding Postgraduate Studies and Leadership Development in Africa
The scholarship is open to South African citizens and citizens from all African countries, who are postgraduate students at recognised South African institutions of higher education, between the ages of 19 and 29 years old (and must be under the age of 30 at the time of taking up the scholarship).
Applicants must also possess a first degree or equivalent, and have above-average academic records. The scholarship is for postgraduate studies in any field, with the exception of MBAs, and covers tuition and registration fees, study materials allowance, accommodation, meal and medical aid allowances, and a personal allowance set by the foundation.
However, the foundation does not cover application fees for university or accreditation of existing degrees through SAQA, which may be an entry requirement for the course. The scholarship also provides economy-class travel allowance for international scholars.
The leadership development programme comprises of three components: residential workshops, regional group pods, and mentoring. Scholars are required to attend three residential workshops, each lasting about five days, covering the four principles of the foundation: leadership, reconciliation, entrepreneurship, and education.
The workshops provide an opportunity for scholars to interact with leaders and expert thinkers, and create a sense of connection within the foundation and the broader Mandela Rhodes Community. Regional group pods aim to develop stronger local support networks and enhance the scholars’ residential experience. Mentoring is a voluntary programme that provides one-on-one reflection, advice, and growth, as well as intergenerational networking among MRF scholars alumni.
To apply, all eligible candidates must submit their application online at www.mandelarhodes.org/scholarship/apply, along with supporting documentation, including a certified copy of their ID document or passport (if not a South African citizen), a certified copy of their degree certificate, transcripts of academic results, and three recommendation letters from people who know them and their character well.
Applicants must also provide two short essays, one about their personal journey and the other on a specific question regarding the foundation’s principles. The foundation recommends that applicants apply to more than one university, but university application is not required.
The application process opened on Tuesday, 14 March 2023, and closes on Tuesday, 21 April 2023. Candidates will be notified of their application status by the end of June, July, and August, and interviews for the final round will be conducted virtually. Successful Mandela Rhodes Scholars will be notified by the end of October and must secure acceptance at their university of choice and their study visa for travel to South Africa in January.
For more information and reference about the scholarship program, please check the Mandela Rhodes Foundation’s terms and conditions. For further inquiries, contact Coralie Valentyn, Programme Associate, at coralie@mrf.org.za or call 021 424 3346.
