The Bayreuth International Graduate School for African Studies (BIGSAS) at the University of Bayreuth in Germany is offering an exceptional opportunity for African women scholars to join its prestigious research community.
Through the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), BIGSAS aims to support early-career scholars in African Studies by providing them with the resources and academic network to advance their research and contribute to the field of African Studies.
About BIGSAS
BIGSAS is part of the University of Bayreuth’s broader commitment to African Studies. It hosts a diverse community of scholars focused on interdisciplinary research across Africa’s historical, social, cultural, and political landscapes. By joining BIGSAS, scholars become part of an international academic network that fosters exchange, collaborative research, and a multidisciplinary approach to understanding Africa’s complexities.
Key Scholarship Details Award
Two scholarships are available through the DAAD’s Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP). These scholarships are designed to support outstanding African women researchers based on the African continent, providing them with the resources needed to pursue advanced academic research.
Scholarship Duration
Up to four years, beginning in October 2025. The scholarship term also includes a German language course during the summer of 2025 for those interested or requiring it.
Eligibility Criteria
This scholarship is specifically for African women scholars who meet the following requirements:
- Academic Qualification: Must hold a Master’s or equivalent degree, completed within the past six years, demonstrating academic excellence in their field.
- Residency: Candidates should not have been resident in Germany for over 15 months prior to the start of the scholarship. Language
- Proficiency: Proficiency in English, German, or French is required, though the primary working language is English.
Application Requirements
To apply, candidates will need to provide:
- Academic Credentials: Documentation of a very good Master’s or equivalent degree.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from academic referees who can attest to the candidate’s qualifications and potential for success in the program.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Evidence of proficiency in English, German, or French, depending on the language chosen for the research.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will receive:
Financial Support: Full funding for up to four years to support their research and academic work.
Language Course: An opportunity to participate in a German language course in the summer of 2025, enriching their experience and enabling them to engage more deeply with the academic environment.
Academic Resources: Access to BIGSAS’s vast network, research support, and a collaborative academic community at the University of Bayreuth.
Deadline – 15th December, 2024
