The Canadian International Development Scholarships (BCDI 2030) program, funded by Global Affairs Canada, is a significant initiative aimed at strengthening international development by providing higher education opportunities to scholars from 26 eligible countries. The program, running from 2022 to 2030, aligns with the United Nations‘ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on creating a more equitable world through accessible education, training, and development. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address the pressing challenges of the modern world, BCDI 2030 plays a pivotal role in fostering education for development.
The BCDI 2030 initiative offers scholarships for vocational and technical training in Canada, allowing students from the partner countries to gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Through these international scholarships, participants will acquire expertise that will help them improve the social and economic landscape in their respective countries upon their return. The program will support approximately 600 scholars during its eight-year duration, with at least 51% of them being women, fostering women in international development and encouraging gender equality in higher education.
Global Affairs Canada Funding: This program is backed by Global Affairs Canada, aiming to create a long-lasting impact on global social and economic development.
Sustainable Development Goals Focus: With an emphasis on SDGs, the program is tailored to address specific development priorities, such as reducing inequalities, advancing sustainable agriculture, and improving access to quality education.
Vocational and Technical Training in Canada: Scholars will be enrolled in vocational and technical trainingprograms at leading Canadian institutions, where they will receive comprehensive training in various fields.
International Networking and Partnerships: Participants will gain valuable exposure to a global network of professionals, organizations, and academics, which will enhance their development and leadership potential.
Eligibility and Application Process: The BCDI 2030 program is structured as a partnership between Canadian higher education institutions (HEIs) and institutions from the 26 eligible countries. The scholarships are not applied for individually; rather, they are available through projects and partnerships formed between Canadian institutions and their counterparts in the partner countries. The participating Canadian HEIs and their partner institutions will announce calls for applications, and candidates will be selected based on criteria set by these institutions in line with the goals of the BCDI 2030 program and the eligibility requirements.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must:
Be a citizen of one of the 26 eligible countries.
Be nominated or selected by the Canadian and partner institutions leading the project.
Meet the specific admission criteria for the programs at the participating Canadian universities.
Be committed to contributing to the social and economic development of their home country upon completion of their studies in Canada.
Vocational and Technical Training: Enhance skills that can directly impact sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and technology.
Higher Education for Development: Study programs are tailored to enhance the ability of scholars to contribute to international development through knowledge-sharing, research, and community involvement.
Global Impact: Through their training, BCDI 2030 scholars will act as change-makers who will address the challenges of global public health, economic inequality, and environmental sustainability.
Fully Funded Scholarships: Includes tuition fees, travel expenses, living allowances, and other essential support to help students focus entirely on their academic and professional development.
Leadership and Development: Scholars will gain leadership skills and practical experience in international development, preparing them for key roles in driving change in their communities.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment: With a commitment to ensuring gender equality, the program actively promotes the inclusion of women in international development roles, particularly in sectors traditionally dominated by men.
How to Apply: Applicants must apply through the Canadian higher education institutions participating in the program. Each partner institution will have its own process for selecting recipients based on specific project criteria, and it is important that applicants follow the guidelines set by the partnering institutions. Once selected, the scholarship recipients will be enrolled in vocational and technical training programs and will receive ongoing support throughout their studies.
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