The 2025 Ban Ki-Moon Global Citizen Scholarship is a transformative opportunity designed to empower young African leaders committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This fully funded program offers participants the chance to develop their skills, network with global changemakers, and implement impactful projects in their communities.
Below is a comprehensive guide to the scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for success.
Opportunity Summary
- Host Organization: Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens (BKMC)
- Program Type: Fully Funded Scholarship
- Target Audience: Young African leaders aged 20–35
- Focus Areas: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Entrepreneurship, Leadership
- Key Benefits:
- Full cost coverage for a two-week summer school at Management Center Innsbruck (MCI)
- $500 seed funding for SDG Micro-Projects
- Peer-to-peer mentoring and expert-led workshops
- Certificate of Achievement signed by H.E. Ban Ki-moon and H.E. Dr. Heinz Fischer
- Application Deadline: February 24, 2025
About the Scholarship
The Ban Ki-Moon Global Citizen Scholarship Program aims to create a cohort of young African changemakers who are passionate about addressing global challenges through localized solutions.
The program empowers participants by providing:
- Specialized academic training on sustainable development and entrepreneurship.
- Access to international forums and high-level networking opportunities.
- Expert-led workshops and peer-to-peer mentoring.
- Funding and guidance to implement SDG Micro-Projects in their communities.
In 2025, the program will select 14 young African leaders, joined by three students from Management Center Innsbruck (MCI), forming a team of 17 changemakers.
Courses Available
Participants will engage in various training sessions and workshops, including:
- Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development: A summer school program at MCI University.
- Leadership Skills Development: Workshops on project management, advocacy, and community engagement.
- SDG Micro-Project Implementation: Training on designing and executing localized projects aligned with the SDGs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Between 20–35 years old at the time of application.
- Citizenship: Must hold citizenship in an African country.
- Educational Background:
- Completed at least a Master’s degree.
- In exceptional cases, applicants who have successfully completed the first year of Master’s studies may be considered.
- Language Proficiency:
- Minimum English proficiency level of B2 (European Standards).
- Commitment to SDGs:
- Demonstrated dedication to advancing the SDGs and promoting global citizenship.
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship is ideal for:
- Young professionals passionate about sustainable development, human rights, or environmental conservation.
- University students or recent graduates with leadership potential.
- Individuals with experience in community development or activism related to the SDGs.
Benefits
The scholarship offers numerous benefits to selected participants:
- Fully Funded Training: All expenses covered for a two-week summer school at MCI University in Austria.
- Seed Funding: $500 grant to support the implementation of an SDG Micro-Project.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with global leaders, experts, and fellow changemakers.
- Mentorship: Peer-to-peer mentoring from alumni of the program.
- Recognition: Certificate of Achievement signed by H.E. Ban Ki-moon and H.E. Dr. Heinz Fischer.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Prepare Required Documents:
- A current CV highlighting academic background, professional experience, and leadership roles.
- A motivational statement explaining your passion for global citizenship and your goals.
- Letters of recommendation from professors or mentors.
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS scores).
- A project outline for your proposed SDG Micro-Project.
- A high-quality portrait photo (JPEG/PNG format).
- A short video introduction (30 seconds; MP4/MOV format).
- Submit Your Application Online:
- Visit the official Ban Ki-moon Centre website to access the application portal.
- Complete all sections of the application form accurately.
- Deadline:
- Ensure your application is submitted before February 24, 2025.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Craft a Strong Motivational Statement:
- Clearly articulate your passion for global citizenship and how this scholarship aligns with your career goals.
- Highlight Relevant Experience:
- Showcase your leadership roles, volunteer work, or initiatives related to sustainable development.
- Develop a Compelling Project Proposal:
- Focus on how your SDG Micro-Project will address specific challenges in your community.
- Proofread Your Application:
- Ensure all documents are error-free and meet submission guidelines.
- Submit Early:
- Avoid last-minute technical issues by applying well before the deadline.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted by February 24, 2025, at 10:55 PM local time.
For Help
If you have any questions or need assistance during the application process, contact the Ban Ki-moon Centre via their official email address provided on their website.
Disclaimer
This article provides information based on publicly available resources about the Ban Ki-Moon Global Citizen Scholarship Program 2025. Applicants are encouraged to visit the official scholarship webpage for detailed instructions and updates.
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