The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) scholarships (Netherlands) is now accepting applications – APPLY NOW

June 29, 2023

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The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) scholarships (Netherlands) is now accepting applications – APPLY NOW

Scholarship Overview:

The Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) offers scholarships funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It provides opportunities for individuals from selected countries to pursue short courses or master’s programs. The duration of the courses varies, ranging from 2 weeks to 12 months for short courses and 12 to 24 months for master’s programs.

Participating Countries:

The list of participating countries may change, and the updated information is yet to be provided. Previously, nationals of the following countries were eligible for OKP scholarships if they were working in their respective countries: Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Colombia, Congo (DRC), Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Palestinian Territories, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Vietnam, and Yemen. However, for the year 2023, Sudan and Uganda will not be part of the OKP scholarship application rounds.

Focus Themes:

The Orange Knowledge Programme places increased emphasis on study programs related to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, as well as Security and the Rule of Law. Although applications in other fields are welcome, qualified applications within these themes will be given priority. Applicants should refer to the Country Focus Document to ensure their study program aligns with the focus areas for their country.

Eligibility Criteria:

OKP scholarships are awarded to motivated professionals from OKP countries who are proficient in English or French. Applicants must be living and working in their respective countries, possess expertise in one of the priority areas identified for their country, and demonstrate the ability to use and transfer their knowledge and experience within their employing organization after completing their studies. Applicants must also agree to the obligations and conditions outlined by the program.

Language Requirements:

English or French language skills are necessary to participate in classes in the Netherlands. The specific language proficiency certificates required may vary depending on the educational institution.

Priority Themes and Focus Areas:

The main priority areas of the Orange Knowledge Programme are sexual and reproductive health and rights, security and rule of law, food and nutrition security, and water management. Each country may have specific focus areas within these themes. Applicants should ensure that their field of experience falls within the focus area of their country of employment. The Country Focus Document provides further details on this.

Employer and Government Statements:

Applicants must submit an employer statement signed by both the applicant and their employer. This statement serves to demonstrate the employer’s support for the application and the intention to share the gained knowledge and experience upon returning to the country. Civil servants may also need to provide a government statement, certifying the government’s support for the applicant’s OKP application.

Other Requirements:

Each educational institution will specify the additional requirements for the application process. As the scholarship is intended for working professionals, applications from students will not be considered. To apply for a course, applicants must provide a motivation statement that explains how the course will strengthen both the applicant and their employing organization, as well as how the newly acquired knowledge and experience will be applied within the organization after completing the study.

Application Process:

Applications for the OKP scholarships cannot be submitted online through the program’s website. Instead, applicants should follow these steps:

Check if the application falls within the OKP focus areas for their country.
Verify if they meet the OKP eligibility criteria.
Find a course on the OKP course list, using the filter ‘Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP).’
Seek nomination from their employer for the OKP scholarship.
Contact the preferred Dutch education institution to receive detailed information about the application procedure, academic requirements, and the link for online application.
Prepare the application materials, including the employer statement

For more information please visit Orange Knowledge Programme

APPLY NOW