MINDS 2026 Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa 

Here are a few things you should know before you buy US stock in Nigeria

MINDS 2026 Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa: Overview

The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) offers the 2026 Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development to support outstanding African students pursuing postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s) in an African country other than their own. Established in 2017, the program aims to develop leaders with a Pan-African outlook who can foster greater cooperation, economic integration, and sustainable development across the continent. Scholarships cover full-time studies at MINDS preferred institutions, with additional leadership development activities.

Scholarship Categories

• One-year or two-year Honours degree programs

• One-year or two-year Master’s degree programs

MINDS 2026 Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa: Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a national of an African country and residing in any African country

• Must have official acceptance from at least one MINDS preferred institution outside your country of citizenship/residency

• Must begin postgraduate studies in the upcoming academic year

• Minimum 70% score in each subject/course over the last two completed years of study

• Demonstrated leadership abilities or potential

• Submission of a complete online application with all required documents

Documents Required

• Bio/data page of passport

• Certified academic transcripts for the last two years of study

• Official acceptance letter from the university (stating degree, start date, and course duration)

• Study permit or visa/proof of application (optional)

• Detailed CV (max 4 pages)

• Two reference letters (max 3 pages each) highlighting leadership, integrity, and commitment to Africa’s development

Important Notes

• Scholarships may be partial or full, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, one return ticket, a stipend, and other related costs

• Limited spots are available per institution, especially for South African universities, so competition is high

• Two scholarships are reserved for South African citizens studying in another African country

• Special scholarships are set aside for Actuarial Sciences, Business Sciences, and Accounting at South African, Kenyan, and Nigerian institutions on the preferred list

Selection Process
Applications are reviewed in the order they are received and assessed based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and Pan-African vision. Only complete applications meeting all requirements will be considered.