Applications are open for a limited number of scholarships under the IHE Delft Water and Development Partnership Programme, made possible through the support of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These scholarships are designed to enhance capacities and build strong networks among water professionals across specific regions and countries targeted by the initiative.

Both full and partial scholarships are available for the MSc Programme in Water and Sustainable Development. A full scholarship covers the complete cost of the programme, including tuition, insurance, round-trip international travel, and a monthly stipend of EUR 1,220 to support living and housing expenses throughout the study duration. Applicants who are able to secure partial financial support from personal resources, employers, or other sponsors are encouraged to contact Ineke Melis at i.melis@un-ihe.org for guidance on applying for complementary funding to cover the remaining costs.

A key requirement of the scholarship is that recipients must carry out their MSc thesis research within their home country or region. This research should be linked to a project funded by the Water and Development Partnership Programme operating in their area. In addition, scholarship holders are expected to actively engage in seminars and collaborative learning events organized by the programme’s regional networks, thereby contributing to local capacity development and the growth of professional networks in the water sector.

This opportunity is specifically open to citizens of selected countries in the Middle East (Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Palestine, Yemen), the Horn of Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda), and the Sahel region (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Nigeria). To qualify, applicants must already be admitted to the MSc Programme in Water and Sustainable Development, reside or work in one of the eligible countries, agree to return to their home country or another priority country after completing their studies, and commit to conducting their thesis research within their region in collaboration with one of the programme’s initiatives.

Additionally, candidates are required to submit two reference letters as part of their application, one of which must come from their current employer. This letter must be written on official letterhead, include a date and signature, and detail how the applicant’s future expertise will benefit the organization, confirm the applicant’s return post-study, and specify the organization’s involvement in any projects supported by the programme, if applicable.

The selection process places strong emphasis on gender equity, with female applicants receiving priority. Candidates must also demonstrate strong motivation through the completion of five reflective questions in the application, a solid academic record, and relevant professional experience. Among equally qualified applicants, those able to secure additional financial support will be prioritized.

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