The Danish government has committed 430 million kroner (approx. €57.7 million) to a scholarship programme targeted at 230 Africans yearly, over the next eight years.
Nigerians are eligible to partake in this initiative which covers full scholarships, inclusive of tuition and living costs.
These students will also have access to the EU’s Erasmus exchange programmes, broadening their academic and cultural experience in Europe.
The scheme forms part of the Danish government’s wider Africa Strategy, which seeks to strengthen ties with the African continent.
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How the initiative will be administered
The initiative will be administered by the Danica Fellowship Centre, Denmark’s development cooperation, a self-governing institution operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Danida Fellowship Centre offers learning opportunities to partners in Danida financed development cooperation projects and programmes in developing and growth countries. The Centre administers on-going research grants as well as annual calls for applications for new research project grants. By providing fully funded scholarships, Denmark aims to position itself as an appealing educational destination and a long-term partner in Africa’s development.
Christina Egelund, minister for higher education and science, highlighted the reciprocal benefits of the initiative. “Africa holds vast potential, and we can help unlock it through education. By 2050, one-third of the world’s youth will reside in Africa, and the continent’s geopolitical importance is rapidly increasing,” she said.
Egelund expressed hope that Danish students would also be encouraged to study in Africa, promoting mutual exchange and learning.
Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark’s foreign minister in a statement accompanying the announcement, said: It is clearly in our interest that African countries look to Europe when charting their future. This programme is not only an investment in education, it is an investment in relationships that will build lasting bridges between Denmark and Africa.
The initiative is expected to enhance collaboration between Danish and African universities, paving the way for long-term academic and professional partnerships.
With this programme, Denmark will join the growing number of countries seeking to build influence in Africa through education and cultural exchange, an approach seen as a diplomatic tool in an increasingly competitive global arena. Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date 
