The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) International Scholarship Program (ISP) is a distinguished initiative aimed at fostering academic excellence and leadership potential in students from developing countries. Established to provide financial assistance to outstanding students, the program focuses on individuals who lack the means to pursue higher education, particularly at the postgraduate level. Here’s a detailed overview of the program, its objectives, eligibility criteria, selection process, and impact.

Objectives of the Aga Khan Foundation 

International Scholarship Program

The primary objectives of the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program include:

• Promoting Educational Access: The program aims to bridge the gap between talented students and higher education opportunities, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic and professional development.
• Building Leadership: By investing in promising students, the AKF seeks to nurture future leaders who can contribute significantly to their communities and countries.
• Fostering Sustainable Development: The scholarship program supports students in fields relevant to the development of their home countries, thus promoting sustainable growth and development.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program, applicants must meet several criteria:

• Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of one of the countries where the Foundation has active programs, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Egypt, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Madagascar, and Mozambique.
• Academic Excellence: Candidates must demonstrate outstanding academic performance and possess a genuine interest in furthering their education.
• Financial Need: The program is designed for students who do not have the financial means to fund their studies. A detailed financial assessment is part of the application process.
• Program Level: The scholarship primarily supports postgraduate studies, although in exceptional cases, applications for undergraduate programs may be considered.
• Field of Study: Preference is given to courses that are relevant to the development needs of the applicant’s home country, such as education, health, rural development, environment, and the development of non-profit organizations.

Selection Process

The selection process for the Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program is rigorous and competitive:

• Application Submission: Applicants are required to submit a detailed application form, including academic records, financial information, and personal statements outlining their career goals and how their studies will benefit their home country.
• Initial Screening: Applications are initially screened at the national level by local Aga Khan Foundation offices or affiliate agencies.
• Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews to assess their academic capabilities, leadership potential, and commitment to development goals.
• Final Selection: Final selections are made by an international selection panel based on the candidates’ academic merit, financial need, and potential to contribute to the development of their home countries.

Scholarship Benefits

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program offers a comprehensive package that includes:

• Tuition Fees: Coverage of tuition costs at accredited institutions.
• Living Expenses: A stipend to cover living costs while studying abroad.
• Travel Costs: Assistance with travel expenses to and from the country of study.
• Loan Component: The program provides 50% of the scholarship amount as a loan, which must be repaid with an annual service charge of 5%. The repayment period is five years, starting six months after the completion of the study program.

Impact and Success Stories

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program has had a profound impact on countless individuals and communities. Some notable impacts include:

• Empowered Individuals: Many scholars have gone on to become influential leaders, contributing significantly to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and rural development.
• Community Development: Graduates often return to their home countries and work on projects that address critical social and economic issues, thereby driving positive change in their communities.
• Global Network: The program has created a global network of alumni who collaborate on various international initiatives, fostering cross-border cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Conclusion

The Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Program is more than just financial aid; it is a catalyst for personal and community development. By investing in talented individuals from developing countries, the program not only transforms lives but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable development. The scholarship recipients, equipped with education and leadership skills, play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges facing their communities, thereby fulfilling the vision of the Aga Khan Foundation to create a more equitable and enlightened world.