The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers the In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme for Sub-Saharan Africa, designed to strengthen higher education systems and support sustainable development across the region. The programme provides funding for development-oriented Master’s studies for students who intend to pursue academic or research careers in their home region. Programme Objective The scholarship programme aims to strengthen higher education capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa by supporting academically talented individuals who will contribute to teaching, research, and knowledge development. Key objectives include: Strengthening internationally oriented universities in Sub-Saharan Africa Supporting sustainable development through advanced education Training future academics and researchers within the region Enhancing regional knowledge production and innovation The programme is specifically designed to build long-term academic capacity within African higher education institutions. Eligibility Criteria The programme is open to candidates from Sub-Saharan Africa who meet the academic and residency requirements. Eligible applicants must: Be graduates or postgraduates with a first academic degree Apply for a Master’s programme in a development-related field Study in their home country or within Sub-Saharan Africa Hold residency status in the country of study (for In-Country or In-Region scholarships) Additional considerations: Female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply Candidates from disadvantaged regions or backgrounds are given special consideration Fields of Study Supported The scholarship supports Master’s programmes in selected development-related disciplines. These programmes vary by institution but are aligned with regional development priorities. Examples include: Physics and natural sciences Mathematics Urban studies and development planning Other fields linked to sustainable development and research capacity Participating universities include institutions such as: University of Cape Town University of Pretoria Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta These institutions host selected DAAD-supported programmes across Sub-Saharan Africa. Duration and Funding Coverage The scholarship provides financial support for the full duration of a Master’s programme, typically up to two years. Funding Includes: Monthly stipend to cover living expenses Study and research allowance Thesis publication costs Tuition fee coverage (where applicable) Additional Support (In-Region Scholarships Only): Travel allowance Health insurance coverage Funding amounts vary depending on the specific programme and host institution. Application Process and Deadlines The application process is conducted through individual university programmes participating in the DAAD scheme. Application Deadline: 29 April 2026 Applicants must follow specific instructions provided by each host institution Selection procedures vary depending on the degree programme Candidates are advised to consult the relevant university call for applications before applying. Participating Programmes (Examples) The scholarship supports selected Master’s programmes across Sub-Saharan Africa, including: West and Central Africa Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Nigeria) Master of Science in Physics Southern Africa University of Cape Town Master of Philosophy in Urban Studies (Southern Urbanism) University of Pretoria Master of Science in Mathematics Additional programmes in other countries and disciplines will be announced in subsequent application cycles. Selection Criteria Selection is based on academic merit and alignment with programme objectives. Key factors include: Academic performance and qualifications Relevance of chosen field to development goals Motivation to pursue academic or research careers Potential contribution to higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa Equity considerations, including gender and regional background Each programme applies its own detailed selection process. Programme Impact The DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme contributes to long-term educational and developmental goals by: Expanding access to advanced education within Africa Reducing brain drain by supporting regional study opportunities Strengthening university teaching and research capacity Supporting sustainable development through academic expertise The programme plays a significant role in building locally grounded academic leadership across the continent. Conclusion The German Academic Exchange Service In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme offers a strategic opportunity for postgraduate students in Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue advanced studies while contributing to regional development. By focusing on academic capacity building and sustainable development, the programme strengthens higher education systems and supports the next generation of researchers and educators. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the scholarship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.