April 4, 2024 (Djibouti City, Djibouti): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) proudly announces the second call for applications for the IGAD Regional Scholarship Program, aimed at providing educational opportunities for refugees, returnees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across the IGAD region.
Launched in December 2021, the IGAD Scholarship program stands as a flagship initiative of the Executive Secretary, operating under the auspices of the IGAD Support Platform and generously funded by the European Union. The program aims to facilitate access to education and enhance training and skills development in the region.
As part of its commitment to fostering regional integration, peace, and development, IGAD recognises the importance of investing in education as a fundamental tool for building resilient communities and promoting social cohesion. The Regional Scholarship Program reflects IGAD’s dedication to addressing the educational needs of vulnerable populations affected by displacement.
This regional scholarship program is an integral part of the inclusive education agenda, stemming from the Djibouti Declaration on education for refugees, returnees, and host communities.
Through this program, IGAD will offer scholarships to eligible individuals residing in IGAD member states, including Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. The scholarships will cover a wide range of academic disciplines at tertiary levels, including undergraduate and postgraduate studies, vocational training, and skill development programs.
Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD, stated, “Education is a powerful vehicle for empowerment and transformation. By providing access to quality education, we can equip refugees, returnees, IDPs, and their host communities with the skills and knowledge they need to rebuild their lives and contribute to the development of their societies.”
The IGAD Regional Scholarship Program is designed to promote inclusivity and diversity, ensuring equal opportunities for all eligible candidates, regardless of their background or status. Priority will be given to applicants from marginalized and underserved communities, including women, persons with disabilities, and disadvantaged youth.
In addition to financial support for tuition fees and living expenses, scholarship recipients will receive mentorship, career guidance, and other forms of support to facilitate their academic and personal development.
“We believe that education is a fundamental human right that should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances,” remarked Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. “Through the IGAD Regional Scholarship Programme, we hope to empower individuals and communities to overcome the challenges they face and build a brighter future for themselves and their societies.”
The IGAD Regional Scholarship Programme application process will open on April 4, 2024, with further details available on the IGAD website. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit www.igad.int/regional-scholarship-program/ for more information and to submit their applications.
PRESS RELEASE – IGAD Regional Scholarship for Refugees, Returnees, and IDPs
