WAAW Foundation Scholarship South Africa

The WAAW Foundation Scholarship is designed to empower African female students through financial support and mentorship in STEM education. This scholarship supports young women who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, helping them advance their careers and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Fields of Study Covered

The WAAW Foundation Scholarship is open to female students from African countries who are pursuing undergraduate studies in STEM-related fields. While the scholarship does not fund Medical or Nursing studies, Pharmacy studies are eligible. The programme focuses on nurturing talent in areas critical to Africa’s development in science and technology.

What the Scholarship Covers & Programme Benefits

The scholarship provides a once-off award of $500, which is paid in two tranches:

• The first payment is made after the student completes at least 3 outreach activities.
• The second payment is made after completing a total of 6 outreach activities.

The selection process includes meeting eligibility criteria, submitting an online application, shortlisting, providing reference letters, attending individual interviews, and finally receiving the scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be female and younger than 32 years old
• Must be of African origin and residing in any African country
• Must be enrolled for their first undergraduate Bachelor’s degree (no funding for Master’s, MBA, PhD, or second degrees)
• Must be studying a STEM-related course
• Must be in their 1st or 2nd year of study (or 3rd year if in a 5-year course)
• Must be studying at a recognised university or college in any African country
• Must have a strong academic record and proven financial need
• Must have participated in volunteering, community service, or leadership activities

Application Process

Applicants must submit their applications online through the WAAW Foundation Scholarship portal. The application form must be completed in one sitting, as it cannot be saved or edited after submission.

Required information includes:

• Scanned student ID card
• Personal and contact details
• Education background and family information
• Essays detailing achievements, career goals, and the importance of female education in Africa
• Two academic or professional references

Shortlisted candidates must provide:

• Two references (1 from a professor and 1 from an academic supervisor/mentor)
• Current signed and sealed transcript from their university

Required Documents

Applicants must have the following ready for submission:

• Student ID card (scanned copy)
• Personal information and contact details
• Educational background and family details
• Essays and personal statements
• Two academic/professional references

Shortlisted candidates must submit additional references and an official transcript.

Final Thoughts

The WAAW Foundation Scholarship is a unique opportunity for African female students to advance their studies in STEM, gain valuable mentorship, and participate in outreach programs that strengthen their leadership skills. With financial support and recognition of their academic and personal achievements, recipients can make a meaningful contribution to the development of science and technology in Africa.

For any queries, contact the WAAW Foundation at [email protected].