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About the Fully Funded MENA Scholarship Programme
The MENA Scholarship Programme (MSP) is designed to foster professional development and societal transformation by providing professionals from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with the opportunity to study short courses in the Netherlands. The programme aims to strengthen institutional capacity, support innovative governance, and enhance leadership in key sectors that contribute to sustainable development.
This initiative also focuses on empowering organizations by equipping employees with knowledge and practical skills that can be applied to address challenges within their institutions and communities. Participants will receive specialized training in governance, public administration, sustainability, and technology, among other fields, enhancing their ability to drive meaningful change in their home countries.
Eligible Fields
The MENA Scholarship Programme covers a wide range of thematic areas that align with pressing regional and global challenges. Eligible courses are divided across two years:
For 2025:
- Integrity and Anti-Corruption
- Local Economic Development
- Multilevel Water Governance
- Gender Responsive Governance
- Fiscal Decentralisation and Local Finance
- Digital Transformation in the Public Sector
For 2026:
- Local Security and Peacebuilding
- Citizen Participation and Inclusive Governance
- Inclusive Service Delivery and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene)
- Urban Governance: Resilient and Smart Cities
- Local Climate Response
- Migration and Local Authorities
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the MENA Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a professional working in one of the eligible countries: Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, and Tunisia.
- Be 45 years old or younger on the application deadline (6 May 2025).
- Have at least two years of work experience in a relevant field.
- Not be employed by organizations with their own staff development programmes, such as international development organizations or private companies.
- Be fluent in English, as all courses are conducted in English.
- Have written support from their employer, confirming their participation and commitment to implementing the Back Home Action Plan after completing the course.
Selection Criteria
The selection process for the MENA Scholarship Programme is competitive. Candidates are evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Educational and professional qualifications: Applicants must meet the academic and experience requirements for the selected course.
- Relevance of work experience: Priority will be given to professionals whose work aligns with the thematic focus areas of the programme.
- Employer endorsement: Candidates must demonstrate strong employer support, as evidenced by a recommendation letter.
- Commitment to societal development: Candidates must outline how they plan to use their acquired knowledge and skills to benefit their home country through the Back Home Action Plan.
Eligible Countries
The MENA Scholarship Programme is open to professionals from the following Middle Eastern and North African nations:
- Algeria
- Egypt
- Iran
- Iraq
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Libya
- Mauritania
- Morocco
- Oman
- Tunisia
Benefits of the Fully Funded MENA Scholarship Programme
Selected candidates will receive the following benefits:
- Full tuition coverage for the selected short course.
- Funding for course-related expenses, including travel, accommodation, and study materials.
- Enhanced professional skills through specialized training.
- Networking opportunities with experts, policymakers, and fellow scholars from across the region and beyond.
- A chance to contribute to societal development by applying the knowledge gained in their home countries.
- Career advancement through capacity building in governance, leadership, and public administration.
- Exposure to best practices and innovative solutions to address governance, economic, and environmental challenges.
How To Apply
To apply for the MENA Scholarship Programme, follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility: Ensure that you meet the programme’s age, experience, and language requirements.
- Choose your course: Select from the available short courses aligned with your career goals.
- Secure employer support: Obtain a written endorsement from your employer, confirming their commitment to your participation and the Back Home Action Plan.
- Prepare application documents: Gather all required materials, including identification documents, proof of work experience, and educational credentials.
- Submit your application: Complete the online application form before the 6 May 2025 deadline.
Note: The application deadline is 6 May 2025.
Final Thoughts
The MENA Scholarship Programme presents a unique and transformative opportunity for professionals in the Middle East and North Africa to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in key governance, economic, and sustainability-related fields. If you are committed to making a positive impact in your home country, don’t miss this chance to study in the Netherlands under a fully funded scholarship.
Apply today and take a significant step toward your professional and personal growth!
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
See also:
Tokyo University Amgen Scholars Program 2025: Apply Now!
The Letten Prize 2025 for Researchers: Apply Now!