The Mandela Rhodes Scholarships for young African students

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarships: These scholarships are funded by the Mandela Rhodes Foundation which was established in 2002. It aims at building a network of African leaders by giving young Africans an opportunity to higher education and leadership development.

What is the Mandela Rhodes Foundation?

• The Mandela Rhodes Foundation knits the 20^th century legacy of reconciliation and leadership that is uniquely Nelson Mandela with the 19^th century legacy of Cecil Rhodes.  The Rhodes Trust in partnership with Nelson Mandela founded the benefaction for more than 10 years.

Who is eligible for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship?

• The scholarship is open to citizens of all African nations.
• Students under the age of 30, with an excellent track record and first degree from a recognized University can apply.
• The scholarship is for postgraduate study at a recognized South African university or at a tertiary institute.
• This scholarship is for individuals who have displayed a commitment to reconciliation, leadership, entrepreneurship and education.

What are the selection criteria?

• The Trustees of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation will be looking for qualities such as leadership, the spirit of reconciliation, high scholastic achievements and entrepreneurship.
• Applicants are advised to read the document titled “Characteristics Sought in a Mandela Rhodes Scholar” which can be found on the website, http://www.mandelarhodes.org.
• Leadership has been defined as individuals who can develop, inspire and guide other people. The leadership qualities should also extend to moral authority and the person has to be a visionary.   The person could be employed in the public sector.
• The spirit of reconciliation would include working for peace, prosperity and freedom of all people; never excluding others.
•  The applicant should have an impressive scholastic track record. However, this alone would not be sufficient to get selected.  The ideal candidate should have both intellect and character.
• The applicant must be hard working, innovative and creative and must be engaged in work which would lead to a better Africa.

What does the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship entail?

• The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship gives you full funding for postgraduate study for two years in any recognized tertiary institution in South Africa.
• The grant provides accommodation, a book allowance, tuition, travel allowance and meals.

How to apply for the Scholarship?

• The preliminary nomination will be processed through a recognized South African tertiary institution.
• Qualified applicants who are not currently associated with a tertiary institution can apply directly to the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship program.
• The Mandela Rhodes Foundation prepares a long list and a short list of candidates.
• Candidates who are short-listed will have to send in an essay on a given topic.
• Successful candidates will be informed a while after the interview if they are successful or not.
• The closing date for application is June 15.

Documents to accompany the application

• A certified copy of the birth certificate, passport or residency certificate.
• Transcripts of academic qualification or certified degree certificate
• A list of awards and scholarship that the applicant has already received or in the process of receiving.  Mandela Rhodes Scholars cannot hold another scholarship which has a stipend.
• The scholarship application essay
• A work history which includes contract and permanent work.  If the applicant has held any office, please mention it.
• An endorsement letter from the Dean of Students
• A high resolution, color, head and shoulders photograph.

For more info click this link – http://mandelarhodes.org/the-scholarship/