Are you an ambitious African student passionate about agriculture and eager to drive positive change in your community? Do you dream of pursuing higher education in fields that will shape the future of food security and sustainable development across the continent? If so, the RUFORUM and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships might be your perfect opportunity to turn those aspirations into reality.
This prestigious scholarship program is designed to empower economically disadvantaged yet academically strong young Africans. It aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to transform agriculture and agrifood systems, fostering inclusive, equitable, and climate-resilient growth. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about this fully funded scholarship, from its benefits and eligibility to the application process.
The TAGDev 2.0 initiative is a decade-long program focused on strengthening African universities and TVET institutions. By providing essential skills and support, it empowers young people to become leaders in agricultural innovation. This scholarship is a key component, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent talented individuals from contributing to Africa’s development.
What are the RUFORUM and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev Scholarships?
The RUFORUM (Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture) and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships are a fully funded program for African students. This initiative is part of a larger 10-year plan (2023-2033) aimed at transforming agricultural universities and technical colleges. The goal is to enable these institutions to better serve their communities and equip young Africans with the skills to drive sustainable agricultural development.
The program specifically targets economically disadvantaged students who demonstrate academic merit. It seeks to empower them to complete their studies and become agents of change in the agricultural sector. The scholarship is open to both male and female applicants, with a strong encouragement for applications from females, refugees, and individuals with disabilities. For the 2026/2027 academic year, scholarships are available at two specific universities: Gulu University in Uganda and Egerton University in Kenya.
What Does the TAGDev Scholarship Cover?
This is a fully funded scholarship, meaning it aims to cover all essential costs associated with your studies. This comprehensive support allows you to focus entirely on your academic and personal development without financial stress. The scholarship provides significant benefits designed to foster academic excellence and practical application of knowledge.
The coverage includes:
- Tuition Fees: All costs associated with your university tuition will be covered.
- Research Costs: Funding for your academic research projects, including materials and necessary resources.
- Workshop and Conference Costs: Support to attend relevant workshops and conferences, enhancing your learning and networking opportunities.
- Living Expenses: This includes a stipend to cover daily living costs and accommodation (hostel fees).
- Laptop: A laptop will be provided to support your academic work and digital learning.
- Internship Attachment: Opportunities for practical work experience through internships.
- Community Engagement and Field Attachment: Support for hands-on experience within communities and in the field.
- Entrepreneurship Training: Programs designed to equip you with business and entrepreneurial skills.
Successful scholars are expected to be highly engaged, high-achieving students who are committed to contributing to community outreach and creating enterprises that generate employment.
Who is Eligible for the TAGDev Scholarships?
To be considered for the RUFORUM and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that the scholarship reaches those who can benefit most and are most likely to contribute to agricultural development in Africa.
Nationality and Residency
- You must be a national of Uganda or Kenya to benefit from the national scholarship quotas.
- Alternatively, you can be a refugee residing in Uganda or Kenya to benefit from a regional quota.
Background and Age
- Applicants should come from economically disadvantaged or marginalized communities.
- Priority is given to those from conflict and post-conflict areas.
- For undergraduate studies, you must be under 25 years old at the time of application.
- For master’s studies, you must be under 30 years old at the time of application.
- For refugees and persons with disabilities applying for undergraduate studies, the age limit is 34 years and below.
- For refugees and persons with disabilities applying for master’s studies, the age limit is 34 years and below.
Academic Qualifications
- For undergraduate degree applications, you must have completed secondary school or obtained a diploma not more than two years before the application deadline.
- You must meet the admission criteria for the eligible programs at either Gulu University or Egerton University.
- For Gulu University undergraduate programs, you need a High School Certificate (HSC) or Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE), or its equivalent.
- For Egerton University, you need the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or its equivalent.
Motivation and Interest
- You must demonstrate a strong interest in agriculture, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship.
- You should also show evidence of leadership qualities and a commitment to serving humanity.
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship supports specific programs at Gulu University and Egerton University, focusing on areas critical to agricultural advancement and community development. Ensure your chosen program aligns with the scholarship’s objectives.
Gulu University Undergraduate Programs
- BSc. Agriculture
- BSc. Food Bioscience and Agribusiness
- BSc. Biosystems Engineering
- BSc. Agrienterpreneurship and Communication Management
Gulu University Master’s Programs
- MSc. Food Security and Community Nutrition
- MSc. Agri-Enterprises Development
- MSc. Agronomy
- MSc. Biosystems Engineering
Egerton University Programs
- BSc. Agricultural Education and Extension
- BSc. Science in Agriculture
- MSc. Agri Enterprise Development
- MSc. Environmental Studies
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Applying for the RUFORUM and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships involves a clear procedure through the RUFORUM Information Management System (RIMS). It is essential to follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is submitted correctly.
- Access the RIMS Web Portal: Navigate to the RUFORUM Information Management System (RIMS) portal at https://rims2.ruforum.org/.
- Create Your Account: Click on the “Register” button to create a new account. You will need to provide a valid email address.
- Activate Your Account: Check your email inbox for an activation link. If you do not see it, check your spam or junk folder. Click the link to activate your account.
- Login: Use your registered email address and the password you created to log in to the RIMS portal.
- Navigate to Scholarship Calls: Once logged in, you will see your Applicant Dashboard. Go to the “Calls” section and then select “Scholarship Calls.”
- Select the Correct Call: Find and select the Call ID: RU/2024/TAGDev-2.0/001.
- Start Your Application: Click on “Apply” to begin filling out the scholarship application form.
- Save Your Progress: As you fill out the form, remember to click “Save Draft” periodically to avoid losing your work.
- Download and Print: After completing the form, download and print a copy of your scholarship application.
- Submit with University Application: You will need to submit this printed scholarship application along with your main application for admission to your chosen university (Gulu University or Egerton University). The submission method (hard copy or online portal attachment) will depend on the university’s specific requirements.
For more detailed instructions and support, you can visit the application webpage. Remember to also complete the admission application process for your chosen university separately.
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications for the RUFORUM and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev Scholarships 2026/2027 is May 1, 2026. It is crucial to mark this date and ensure all your application materials are prepared and submitted well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. Late applications are typically not considered.
Tips for a Strong Application
To increase your chances of being selected for this competitive scholarship, consider these tips. A well-prepared and thoughtful application can make a significant difference.
- Understand the Program’s Goals: Thoroughly read about the TAGDev 2.0 program and its objectives. Tailor your application to show how your interests and future goals align with transforming African agriculture.
- Highlight Your Disadvantage: Clearly articulate your economic disadvantage or marginalized background. Provide specific examples if possible, demonstrating why you are a deserving candidate for this support.
- Showcase Leadership and Community Involvement: Provide concrete examples of your leadership experiences and any community service you have undertaken. This could include roles in school clubs, community projects, or volunteer work.
- Demonstrate Passion for Agriculture: Explain why you are passionate about agriculture and how you plan to use your education to make a difference. Connect your chosen field of study to specific agricultural challenges or opportunities in your region.
- Proofread Carefully: Ensure your application is free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished application reflects attention to detail.
- Meet All Requirements: Double-check that you meet all the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documents before submitting. Missing information can lead to disqualification.
- Apply Early: Do not wait until the last minute. Starting early allows you time to gather documents, complete the forms accurately, and seek clarification if needed.
By following these guidelines, you can present a compelling application that highlights your potential and commitment to agricultural development in Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RUFORUM and Mastercard Foundation TAGDev Scholarship?
It’s a fully funded scholarship program for economically disadvantaged African students to pursue higher education in agriculture and related fields, aiming to transform agricultural systems across the continent.
What does the TAGDev scholarship cover?
The scholarship is fully funded, covering tuition fees, research costs, workshop and conference expenses, living expenses, a laptop, internship and field attachment opportunities, and entrepreneurship training.
Who is eligible for the TAGDev Scholarships?
Eligibility includes being a national or refugee of Uganda or Kenya, coming from an economically disadvantaged background, meeting age requirements (under 25 for undergrad, under 30 for masters, with exceptions for refugees/disabled), and having completed secondary education with good academic standing.
How do I apply for the TAGDev Scholarships?
Applications are submitted online through the RUFORUM Information Management System (RIMS) using Call ID: RU/2024/TAGDev-2.0/001. You must also complete a separate admission application for Gulu University or Egerton University.
