WASCAL’s International Master’s in Energy & Green Hydrogen for young West Africans (Fully Funded), Check out and Apply.

The West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), with support from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), offers a fully funded International Master's Programme in Energy and Green Hydrogen (IMP-EGH) for students from the 15 ECOWAS countries, including Nigeria. 

Programme Overview:

The IMP-EGH is designed to equip the next generation with the skills to tackle energy challenges related to climate change adaptation and resilience in West Africa. This interdisciplinary programme provides insights into current energy infrastructures, policies, and sustainable solutions within the region. 

Specializations and Host Universities:

Students can choose from the following specializations, each hosted by a different West African university:

Economics/Policies/Infrastructures and Green Hydrogen Technology: Université Cheikh Anta Diop, Senegal.

Bioenergy/Biofuels and Green Hydrogen Technology: University of Lomé, Togo.

Photovoltaic and System Analysis for Green Hydrogen Technologies: Université Abdou Moumouni, Niger.

Green Hydrogen Production and Technology/Geo-resources (Wind/Water) and Green Hydrogen Technology: Université Felix Houphouet Boigny, Côte d'Ivoire.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must:

Be citizens of one of the 15 ECOWAS countries.

Hold at least a Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline or engineering, with strengths in physics, chemistry, electrical, or mechanical engineering. A background in economics and statistics is an added advantage.

Demonstrate proficiency in English.

Benefits:

The scholarship provides:

A monthly stipend of 400 Euros.

Accommodation support up to 100 Euros.

Research funding.

Travel tickets for language courses in Cape Coast or Lomé, specialization country, and a round trip to Germany.

Coverage of tuition fees.

Return ticket to the home country upon completion.

Duration:

The programme spans 28 months, comprising 4 months of language training and 24 months dedicated to the master's coursework.

Application Deadline:

All applications must be submitted by April 30, 2025.

For more detailed information and application procedures, please visit WASCAL's official page: Application Website

How to Succeed in Getting the WASCAL International Master’s in Energy & Green Hydrogen Scholarship

Securing a spot in this fully funded program requires a strategic approach. Here’s how you can improve your chances:

1. Meet and Exceed Eligibility Requirements

Ensure you have a strong academic background in relevant fields such as physics, chemistry, engineering, or economics.

If possible, pursue additional certifications in renewable energy, green hydrogen, or climate-related courses (e.g., Coursera, edX).

Demonstrate proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS may be required if English is not your first language).

2. Craft a Strong Application Package

Personal Statement: Write a compelling motivation letter highlighting:

Your passion for renewable energy and green hydrogen.

How this program aligns with your career aspirations.

Any past experiences in climate change, sustainability, or energy projects.

Recommendation Letters: Obtain strong letters from professors or employers who can vouch for your technical skills and leadership potential.

Research Proposal: If required, draft a research idea that aligns with WASCAL’s objectives. Focus on a problem related to energy or hydrogen technology in your country and propose a solution.

3. Gain Relevant Experience

Engage in internships or volunteer work related to renewable energy, climate action, or sustainable development.

Join organizations like IEEE Power & Energy Society, Climate Reality Project, or African Youth Initiative on Climate Change (AYICC) to gain practical exposure.

4. Prepare for the Interview (if applicable)

Be ready to discuss your academic background, research interests, and career goals.

Show a deep understanding of green hydrogen technology, energy policies, and sustainable development.

5. Apply Early and Follow Up

Ensure all documents are submitted before the deadline (April 30, 2025).

Keep in touch with WASCAL’s admission office to track your application status.

Impact of the WASCAL International Master’s in Energy & Green Hydrogen Program

1. Contribution to the Green Energy Transition in West Africa

Graduates will drive the shift towards renewable energy and sustainable hydrogen production.

Helps ECOWAS countries reduce dependence on fossil fuels and meet climate action targets.

2. Career Advancement & Job Opportunities

Alumni can work in government agencies, international organizations (e.g., UN, World Bank), research institutes, and energy companies.

Equips students with skills for high-demand jobs in renewable energy, green hydrogen production, and energy policy development.

3. Research & Innovation in Africa

Encourages African-led innovations in energy storage, hydrogen fuel cells, and bioenergy.

Enables students to work on real-world projects with top European and African researchers.

4. Strengthening Regional and International Partnerships

Provides opportunities for networking with global experts in energy and climate science.

Strengthens collaborations between ECOWAS countries and Germany in green technology.

5. Economic & Environmental Benefits

Helps create green jobs in West Africa.

Supports national strategies to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable energy solutions.

By excelling in your application and making the most of this program, you can position yourself as a leader in Africa’s transition to clean energy and climate resilience.