Konrad Adenauer Foundation-SAIIA Scholarship (2025)

Deadline: September 21, 2024.
Open to: Applicants must be under 30 years old and from countries in Southern Africa. Candidates should apply to either Johannesburg or Cape Town, but not both.
Benefits: The program offers a full bursary for tuition fees, a monthly stipend for living costs, and accommodation. It is an internship opportunity with no salary but covers all essential expenses.

Description:

The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS), in collaboration with the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), offers scholarships to outstanding South African students interested in pursuing higher education in International Relations, Politics, Economics, or Law. This scholarship is designed to support young South Africans who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to contributing to South Africa’s role in international affairs.

In addition to receiving financial support, successful applicants will have the chance to gain valuable practical experience through an internship at SAIIA, South Africa’s leading think tank on international relations. During this internship, scholars will engage in research, policy analysis, and public engagement activities, helping to shape the discourse on South Africa’s foreign relations and policy-making.

This unique opportunity blends academic study with hands-on professional experience, equipping scholars with the knowledge and skills to excel in their future careers as leaders in international affairs and related fields. Scholars will join a prestigious network of KAS alumni, gaining access to further opportunities for development, networking, and career advancement.

Eligibility:

The opportunity is open to individuals from Southern Africa who are under 30 years old and have been admitted to a Master’s program at the Political Science Departments of the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, or the University of the Western Cape. Dual applications to Johannesburg and Cape Town are not allowed. Candidates must meet the entry requirements for their chosen Master’s program.

Benefits:

  • Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship will cover all tuition fees for the selected scholar’s Honours or Master’s degree program.
  • Monthly Stipend: Scholars will receive a monthly stipend to cover their living expenses during their studies.
  • Research Allowance: An additional allowance will be provided to cover costs related to the scholar’s research activities, such as fieldwork, data collection, and materials.
  • Internship Opportunity: Scholars will intern at SAIIA, where they will work alongside policy experts, researchers, and thought leaders on key international relations issues affecting South Africa and the world.

How to apply:

Applicants must complete the online application form available on the official websites of KAS and SAIIA. The application package must include the following:

  • A comprehensive CV detailing academic achievements and any professional or volunteer experience.
  • A motivation letter explaining the applicant’s interest in international relations, politics, economics, or law, and how this scholarship will support their future career goals.
  • Academic transcripts from all previous university studies.
  • Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

For more information, please visit the official website.