The allocation of scholarships to students coming from low- and lower-middle income economies is crucial in promoting SDGs 1: No Poverty that advocates for the safeguarding of the poor and the vulnerable through social protection policies. UGM, as a part of international society, supports international students from developing countries in the form of accessibility to obtain scholarships (partial or full scholarships) which covers tuition fee, living cost, research grants, medical insurance as well as other student support services, including soft skills and Indonesian language skill.
Some examples of the scholarships are GMIF (Gadjah Mada International Fellowship) and KNB (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang/Developing Country Partnership). UGM also provides Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Scholarship 2023. The program is prioritised for countries in the southern hemisphere and in need of financial assistance.
Developing Countries Partnership (KNB) Scholarship
The Developing Countries Partnership (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang or KNB) Scholarship is a flagship initiative aimed at supporting students from low- and lower-middle-income countries. To date, it has been awarded to over 1,600 students from 97 countries. The KNB scholarship provides full funding for Master’s and Doctoral degree programs, covering tuition fees, air travel, living expenses, and health insurance. To ease students’ transition to life in Indonesia, the program also includes preparatory courses in Bahasa Indonesia, fostering smoother cultural and academic integration. The KNB scholarship is rooted in the philosophy of advancing education across developing countries, recognizing education as a powerful tool in the fight against poverty. By providing access to higher education for students from low- and lower-middle-income countries, the program not only empowers individuals but also equips them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and economies.
Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Scholarship
Another program that UGM offers is the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Scholarship. This program provides an opportunity for students from Non-Aligned Movement member countries, which primarily consist of low- and lower-middle-income nations, to pursue a Master’s degree at UGM. Established in collaboration with the NAM Centre for South-South Technical Cooperation, the scholarship covers key academic expenses, including tuition fees, research costs, living allowances, and air tickets. Beyond academic support, the NAM grant recognizes the transformative power of education in reducing poverty and fostering development. By promoting cultural enrichment through integration and exchange, the scholarship enables students to experience a comprehensive educational journey in Indonesia. This program reflects a broader commitment to strengthening collaboration among South-South countries while addressing educational disparities.
Scholarships for Global South Countries
To expand access to education and promote cultural understanding, UGM offers a variety of scholarships tailored to students from ASEAN, the Global South, and countries with strong diplomatic ties to Indonesia.
The Gadjah Mada International Fellowship (GMIF) is another scholarship program available at UGM, designed for students from ASEAN countries and the Global South, including those from low- and lower-middle-income nations. This scholarship aims to cultivate future leaders who can address development challenges in their home countries while contributing to global progress. By fostering international collaboration, the GMIF aligns with UGM’s mission to provide innovative solutions to pressing global issues.
Additionally, the Darmasiswa Indonesian Scholarship encourages students from countries with diplomatic ties to Indonesia to immerse themselves in Indonesia’s language, arts, and culture. Through these programs, UGM not only promotes education but also facilitates the integration of foreign students into its social and cultural environment, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among diverse communities.
Lastly, the Indonesian AID Scholarship (TIAS) is a grant program by the Indonesian government aimed at supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education. Rooted in the spirit of the Asia-Africa Summit and South-South Cooperation, the program develops the skills and expertise of future leaders from partner countries of Indonesia, empowering students with the skills and knowledge needed to drive progress in their home countries. TIAS provides scholarships for various educational levels, including associate, bachelor, professional, and master’s degrees, primarily targeting government officials or individuals recommended by their governments.
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