Education Funding Available for Adult Learners in Africa 

Adult learners are students aged 25 years and above. They are also referred to as the non-traditional students because they do not fit into the typical age range of college students. Adult learners often have other responsibilities apart from learning. They juggle multiple roles like employment, family and community responsibilities alongside studying.

They are more focused and goal oriented because most times, they make more sacrifices to be able to lay hold on this education. They are highly motivated and ready to face any challenges head on. Their motivation often stem from the need for self-improvement, better job opportunities or personal fulfilment.

Adult education in Africa have its own unique challenges and opportunities. Students who enrol for adult education in Nigeria often do so to improve their socio-economic status, enhance their job prospect or contribute to community development. One of the major challenges is economic constraints as this limits adult learner’s ability to afford educational programs, especially in countries with high level of poverty or unemployment. Securing funding is crucial for the sustainability of adult education programs. Availability of funds will really help these learners to focus and achieve their dreams without stress.

If you are an adult in Africa with a desire to have a formal education, this article is for you. In this article, we will be discussing education funding available for adult learners in Africa.

Here are some funding schemes available to adult learners in Africa:

1. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarship Programme: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides scholarships for African students to pursue their studies within their home country or region. This program supports both master’s and Ph.D. studies in various fields. Check this website (daad.de) for more information.
2. MasterCard Foundation Scholars Programme: This programme provides comprehensive support (tuition, accommodation, books, and other educational expenses) to students in Africa who are committed to giving back to their communities. It partners with several universities across Africa and the world. Check this website (http://mastercardfdn.or/all/scholars) for more information.
3. Commonwealth Distance Learning Scholarships: These scholarships are offered to citizens of developing Commonwealth countries, including many in Africa, to study for a master’s degree via distance learning from UK universities. The scholarships cover tuition fees and course materials. Check this website (http://cscuk.fcdo.org.uk/scholarships/) for more information.
4. African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) Fellowship: This fellowship is aimed at building a more gender-responsive agricultural innovation system in Africa by strengthening the research and leadership skills of African women in agricultural science. Check thei website (http://wardsfellowship.org) for more information.
5. Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) – Nigeria: This fund provides financial support to public tertiary institutions in Nigeria for staff development and other educational initiatives, which can indirectly benefit adult learners. Check this website (http://tetfund.gov.ng) for more information.
6. AGRA (Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa) Scholarships: AGRA offers scholarships and fellowships for students in agricultural sciences to study at African universities, aiming to develop the next generation of leaders in African agriculture. Check this website (http://agra.org) for more information.

Things to Consider when Applying for these Scholarships

1. Each funding scheme has its specific eligibility criteria, including nationality, field of study, academic performance, and commitment to community service or development. Make sure you find out all the requirements before applying.
2. When seeking scholarship funds, some documents are generally required from applicants which include: academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of citizenship, a personal statement, and sometimes evidence of financial need.
3. Many scholarships target specific fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), agriculture, and energy. Aligning your field of study with the focus area of the scholarship can improve your chances of success.
4. It is also important to be aware of application deadlines, this varies from one programme to another.
5. There is a popular belief that adults are more family and community oriented, therefore, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to your community or country can strengthen your application. Many funding bodies seek candidates who will use their education to contribute to social and economic development.

With a thorough research and strong determination, adult learners in Africa can gain access to higher education and advanced training by taking advantage of these funding opportunities, which will contribute to personal growth and broader societal development.