For students and professionals seeking opportunities to advance their education and careers, several fellowships and scholarships are available to support those striving for excellence. Covering fields such as health, conservation, IT, engineering, and hospitality, these programs provide a platform to learn from renowned institutions and industry leaders. ALSO READ: Concordia University of Edmonton partners with UoK to empower Rwanda’s future cybersecurity leaders Here are six opportunities open to Rwandan and African students and innovators: 1. Loughborough Development Trust Africa Scholarship The Loughborough Development Trust Africa Scholarship offers full tuition coverage for one year of postgraduate study at Loughborough University. Successful applicants must secure funding for travel and living expenses from other sources, with proof of financial support required during the application process. The scholarship is open to students permanently residing in Africa who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, typically holding a first-class honours degree. Applicants must also show a strong commitment to returning home after completing their studies and contributing meaningfully to their home country. Additionally, they must demonstrate a clear understanding of the costs involved in studying and living in the UK, along with the initiative to secure the necessary financial support. Applications are open until April 30. 2. Changemaker program at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 Another opportunity is the Changemaker program at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, which seeks young leaders working on groundbreaking environmental solutions. Open to those aged 18 to 35, the program targets individuals actively involved in conservation, biodiversity, climate action, or sustainable development. It particularly encourages applicants whose projects promote equity, inclusivity, intergenerational collaboration, or a rights-based approach. While the primary focus is on young changemakers, exceptional candidates over 35 may also be considered based on their leadership and impact. Those selected will receive delegate access to the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, where they will have an exclusive opportunity to pitch their environmental projects in English, French, or Spanish to global leaders. The program also provides networking opportunities with leading conservationists, policymakers, and corporate leaders. Travel and accommodation costs will be fully covered, along with meals and other expenses during the stay in Abu Dhabi. The deadline for applications is April 27. 3. AstraZeneca Young Health Programme (YHP) Impact Fellowship The AstraZeneca Young Health Programme (YHP) Impact Fellowship seeks passionate young leaders working to promote health equity through registered non-profit organizations. This initiative supports advocates striving for policy changes and community-based solutions in non-communicable disease prevention and rare disease advocacy. Successful applicants will receive a fully funded One Young World Scholarship to attend the 2025 summit in Munich, Germany, as well as a $10,000 grant to implement a project. Those selected as Lead2030 Challenge winners will receive an increased grant of $50,000. The program also offers leadership development opportunities to enhance both personal and professional growth. Applications close on April 17. 4. Pernod Ricard WE Award 2025 The Pernod Ricard WE Award 2025 for young changemakers (Fully Funded to the 2025 One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany) recognizes individuals working to combat social disconnection and foster meaningful interactions. Despite the rise of digital connectivity, many communities continue to experience social fragmentation, misinformation, and mental health challenges. This award is open to leaders developing social infrastructure, community services, responsible social environments, and mental health initiatives. Winners will receive a €15,000 grant from Pernod Ricard, an opportunity to pitch their initiative to the company’s executive committee, and participation in the One Young World Summit in Munich. Travel, accommodation, meals, and local transport will also be covered, with a pre-event hosted by the Pernod Ricard Foundation on November 3. The application deadline is April 7. 5. Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2025 The Google Summer of Code (GSoC) 2025 offers a paid, remote opportunity for students and early-career developers to work on open-source projects. Since its launch in 2005, the program has introduced more than 21,000 contributors from 123 countries to open-source software development. Participants collaborate with mentors from established organizations over a 12-week coding project, gaining real-world experience and a competitive stipend. Open to anyone aged 18 or older with programming skills—no formal degree required—the program runs from March 24 to April 8. Click to apply. 6. Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Ashesi University Lastly, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at Ashesi University provides full funding for talented African students from underprivileged backgrounds. The scholarship covers tuition and offers academic, personal, and leadership development support, along with networking opportunities within a pan-African community. Applicants must be citizens of an African country, demonstrate financial need, and show strong academic performance and leadership potential. The deadline for applications is June 14. Maximize these opportunities by either applying yourself or sharing them with potential candidates. Stay updated on the latest opportunities throughout Rwanda by visiting The New Times' Jobs and Tender profile, the largest job market in the country, and follow our social media platforms for daily postings.
