Deadline: January 20, 2027
Applications are open for the IJP Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme 2027. The Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme is a multiyear effort to foster a deeper understanding between Germany and Africa as a whole. It has been offered in response to concerns about an increasing political and cultural detachment between Africa and Europe. The bursary is intended to enable young journalists to gain valuable insights into the political, economical, cultural and social fabric of the host country.
The bursary is named in honour of former Federal President Horst Köhler, whose exemplary dedication to German-African relations has left a lasting impact. President Horst Köhler was a passionate advocate for Africa, both during his time in office and beyond, championing a cultural shift in Africa policy that acknowledged historical transformations and the continent’s global significance. IJP is grateful that this programme bears his name in recognition of his legacy.
Scholarship
- The Southern African delegates receive a fixed payment of 3,500 Euro. This is expected to cover most of their travel, accommodation and living expenses. No further payments will be made: delegates are expected to use their own funds for any further costs. Payment for their work with the host media is not envisaged. To receive the full grant participants are obliged to write a report of at least three pages and provide copies of their published journalistic work after returning home.
Eligibility
- All journalists from Southern Africa (SADC Member States and Kenya) between the age of 25 and 40 who regularly work for a media organisation can apply.
- Above average English language skills are required.
Application
Application documents include:
- A comprehensive CV (including a passport photograph) detailing your education, work experience, and language skills in English and German (enclose relevant certificates, e.g. Goethe-Institut or TOEFL, if available)
- An 800-word essay addressing the following topics:
- Why would you like to work in Germany?
- What are the three research topics you plan to pursue during the fellowship?
- What role do you expect to play at your home media in the future?
- How do you plan to spend the bursary?
- Work samples: Two representative articles written by you. TV and radio journalists should submit scripts and/or online links.
- Reference: A journalistic reference from your editor-in-chief or head of department is required (freelancers may submit a reference from a senior journalist). The letter must also explicitly guarantee a leave of absence for the duration of the programme.
Applicants are asked to send their application documents via email between November 1, 2026, and January 20, 2027, to [email protected]
For more information, visit IJP Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme.
