Scholarship to equip African women with skills to tackle environmental problems

Postgraduate women from sub-Saharan countries are being invited to apply for a scholarship programme that aims to “equip them with the skills” needed to tackle environmental problems in their home countries.

Heriot-Watt University has launched the Hoogenboom Scholarship Programme, which will provide fully-funded places for the women and focuses on addressing issues such as climate change and sustainability.

Women from Kenya, Zambia, South Africa, Botswana and Malawi will be prioritised for the programme, which will take place at the Lyell Centre at the university’s Edinburgh campus, known for its ingenuity in marine science and tech.

Professor Richard Williams, principal and vice-chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, said: “This is a truly transformative programme that will deliver real, tangible benefits to these women and to the sectors they will go on to work in.

“What makes this even more special is to be able to launch this on our annual Global Watt Day where we celebrate our alumni, heritage and the memory of our founder, James Watt.

“Investing in the education of women is one of the most effective ways to strengthen communities and support long-term economic stability in these regions.

“In areas facing persistent joblessness, education plays a critical role in developing the skilled leaders and innovators needed for future growth.”

The programme was made available by the Orchard Foundation, co-founded and chaired by Annemiek Hoogenboom, a Dutch entrepreneur and philanthropist who launched the People’s Postcode Lottery in the UK, as well as Novamedia.

The programme, which begins in September, will see a total of five cohorts accepted, with 2030 marking its end.

Dr Hoogenboom said: “We are pleased that at this point in time and history we could establish the Hoogenboom Scholarship Programme.

“This will contribute to stronger bonds between Europe and Africa. We are also looking forward to help expanding the Empower through Education campaign and therewith furthering education for more talented African young women.”

Professor Dame Heather McGregor, provost and vice-principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, said: “As a global university, Heriot-Watt has a strong tradition of widening access to education and delivering research that addresses real-world challenges. This programme reflects that commitment.

“With the help of The Orchard Foundation, it will open access to world-class postgraduate education for 30 women from sub-Saharan Africa. It will equip them with the skills needed to tackle pressing environmental challenges.

“Scholarships targeted at women are not only an investment in individuals. They drive wider social and economic change.

“This programme will directly address these benefits by supporting some of the brightest female minds from across Africa’s most promising regions.

“I would encourage those interested to apply as soon as possible, as we expect great interest in this programme.”