06 Feb
VDTDev Other Scholarships No Comments

Empowering Research: NEF Research Grant Programme 2025

The Nagao Natural Environment Foundation (NEF) is offering research grants to support innovative and impactful research projects in environmental conservation. The program is open to individual researchers and doctoral students from developing countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

What is the NEF Research Grant Programme?

The NEF Research Grant Programme provides financial support to early-career researchers conducting field research on topics related to nature conservation. The grants are intended to cover research expenses such as field equipment, travel, and living expenses.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must be:

  • Citizens of a developing country in the Asia-Pacific region
  • Currently enrolled in a doctoral program or have completed their Ph.D. within the past five years
  • Conducting independent research on a topic related to nature conservation

What are the application deadlines?

The application deadlines for the 2025 NEF Research Grant Programme are:

  • April 15, 2025, for research projects starting from/after August 2025
  • October 14, 2025 for research projects starting from/after February 2026

How to apply:

Interested applicants can find more information and the application form on the NEF website: [invalid URL removed]

Additional resources:

  • Terra Viva Grants Website: Click here
  • Funds for Individuals (Subscribe for funding alerts: Click here

The NEF Research Grant Programme is a valuable opportunity for early-career researchers to advance their research and contribute to the conservation of nature. We encourage eligible researchers to apply for this grant and support their important work.

06 Feb
VDTDev Other Scholarships No Comments

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters: A Global Pathway to Excellence

Calling All Ambitious Students:

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters offer a unique opportunity for students worldwide to pursue a world-class education. These prestigious programs, co-designed and delivered by a consortium of European universities, provide an unparalleled international learning experience.

Why Choose an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master?

  • Global Perspective: Study across multiple European countries and beyond, gaining valuable international exposure.
  • Prestigious Network: Join a select group of students and collaborate with renowned academics and industry professionals.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Immerse yourself in a rigorous and innovative curriculum, combining academic study with practical training and research.
  • Potential for Full Funding: Highly competitive scholarships are available for the most outstanding applicants, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Program Highlights:

  • Duration: 1 to 2 academic years (60, 90, or 120 ECTS credits).
  • Degree Options: Earn a joint degree issued by multiple institutions or individual degrees from each participating university.
  • Focus: Programs span a wide range of disciplines, offering specialized knowledge and cutting-edge research opportunities.

How to Apply:

  • Find Your Program: Explore the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master course catalogue to find programs that align with your academic and career goals.
  • Application Deadline: Most programs have application deadlines between October and January for the following academic year.
  • Direct Application: Submit your application directly to the institution running the chosen program.
  • Eligibility: Hold a bachelor’s degree or be in your final year of undergraduate studies.

Need Guidance?

The Erasmus Mundus Association provides valuable resources for prospective students, including:

  • Course Contacts: Connect with program coordinators for specific inquiries.
  • Student Stories: Gain insights from successful applicants.
  • National Representative Events: Network with other aspiring students and learn from experienced individuals.

For Institutions:

Erasmus+ also offers grants to higher education institutions to establish and run EMJM programs.

Embark on an Extraordinary Educational Journey:

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters provide an exceptional pathway to academic and professional success. Explore the opportunities available and take the first step towards a truly global education.

Erasmus Mundus website – Click here

13 Jan
VDTDev News No Comments

Mastercard Strengthens Its Commitment to West Africa with New Office in Accra, Ghana

Mastercard has taken a significant step in its West African expansion by establishing its first office in Accra, Ghana, a move that reinforces its dedication to fostering the region’s digital transformation.

This landmark decision reflects Mastercard’s unwavering commitment to Ghana’s burgeoning digital economy. With a focus on delivering innovative financial products and services tailored to local needs, the new office will enable Mastercard to deepen collaborations with stakeholders and drive inclusive growth throughout the region.

A Strategic Investment in Ghana’s Digital Future
The Accra office marks an important milestone in Mastercard’s regional strategy, allowing the company to bring its global expertise closer to the communities it serves. Mark Elliott, Division President for Africa at Mastercard, emphasized the significance of this development:

“Opening our office in Ghana marks an important milestone in our commitment to deepening relationships across the region. Our growth strategy for West Africa is ambitious, and establishing a formal presence here allows us to better serve the specific needs of our customers. We are eager to leverage our global expertise and innovative capabilities to introduce advanced payment technologies in this market. As we look to the future, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our extensive network of partners in the public and private sector, who are helping us build a better, more connected digital world.”

Empowering Local Innovation and Talent
Ghana’s dynamic market presents immense opportunities for Mastercard to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and technological advancement. Folasade Femi-Lawal, Country Manager and Area Business Head for West Africa at Mastercard, reiterated the company’s focus on collaboration and inclusion:

“We are committed to attracting and nurturing top talent and fostering an ecosystem that contributes positively to the local economy and technological advancement. Mastercard has already made a positive impact on Ghana’s financial services ecosystem through collaborative partnerships. We will continue to work closely with financial institutions, fintech innovators, and other partners to build a connected and inclusive digital future for all.”

Building a Network of Strategic Partnerships
Mastercard’s commitment to Ghana extends beyond the opening of its new office. The company has forged partnerships with pioneering organizations like Kalabash, KaiOS, Boost, Smile ID, as well as leading financial institutions including Access Bank and Fidelity Bank, to enhance cross-border payment solutions and support the country’s evolving financial landscape.

A Pan-African Vision for Digital Transformation
The establishment of the Accra office is part of Mastercard’s broader strategy to expand its footprint across Africa. With existing offices in Cairo, Casablanca, Johannesburg, Lagos, Nairobi, and Mauritius, the addition of Ghana underscores the company’s dedication to creating a sustainable digital economy that delivers long-term benefits across the continent.

Through its innovative approach and commitment to collaboration, Mastercard is positioning itself as a catalyst for positive change, shaping the future of payments and financial services in West Africa.

 

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