Zusipe BatyiThe Amrit Bhowan-Laloo Chiba Scholarship (ABLC-S) is the successor to the Amrit Bhowan Memorial Bursary Fund. The Fund was first established in 1969 by the Fordsburg United Football Club in honour of the late Amrit Bhowan, one of the founders of the club. It offered bursaries to deserving students within the community.
The Amrit Bhowan-Laloo Chiba Scholarship is presently administered within the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation. The Scholarship honours the enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to the South African liberation struggle for freedom, democracy, justice, equality and human rights as exemplified by the late anti-apartheid struggle veterans, Laloo Chiba and Amrit Bhowan. This scholarship is therefore designed to support and empower postgraduate students who are dedicated to advancing social justice; promoting human rights, democracy and constitutionalism; and fostering positive change in their communities and beyond.
The annual scholarship will sponsor a Masters’ and/or Doctoral candidate undertaking higher level research in activities associated with the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation. Research on socio-political issues such as racism, anti-racism and non-racialism; good and ethical governance; combatting state capture and corruption; constitutionalism; building and strengthening democracy; youth development and liberation history are current areas of focus for the Foundation. High level and sound research will be encouraged through a selective, annual scholarship award to a postgraduate student.
Students who qualify for the scholarship will be expected to enhance the intellectual capability of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation. Papers and publications emanating from the research will be published on the website of the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation and successful students will be encouraged to offer seminars, talks and lectures to interest groups within communities. As much as the scholarship will enable the personal and intellectual development of a prospective student, it is expected that the student will contribute through his/her research to the development of communities, interest groups and institutions in civil and political society at large.
Scholarship Details
The Postgraduate Scholarship aims to support students who embody the spirit and values of Laloo Chiba and Amrit Bhowan. It is open to South African postgraduate students pursuing advanced degrees in fields such as human rights, social justice, law, political science, international relations, education and community development.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be enrolled in or have an offer of admission to a recognised postgraduate programme in one of the eligible fields at a South African university.
- Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing human rights, social justice and community development.
- Academic excellence and a proven track record of engagement in relevant activities will be considered.
- Financial need will be considered during the selection process.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship will provide financial support to cover tuition fees and research expenses allowing recipients to focus on their studies and to contribute to positive change in their communities. The Executive Committee of the ABLC Scholarship reserves the right to set a maximum amount annually for the scholarship award, based on the availability of funds.
Application Process
An applicant should submit certified copies of the following documents:
- South African Identity Document
- A completed scholarship application form.
- Academic transcripts and proof of admission to a postgraduate study programme.
- A personal statement outlining his/her commitment to human rights, social justice and community development.
- Letters of recommendation from professors, mentors or community leaders who can attest to his/her dedication to these values.
- A detailed statement of financial need (if applicable).
Selection Process
A committee of representatives of the Amrit Bhowan-Laloo Chiba Scholarship will review all applications and select a student/s based on the eligibility criteria and the strength of his/her/their applications.
Submission of Application
Applications should be submitted to the Amrit Bhowan-Laloo Chiba Scholarship, c/o Ahmed Kathrada Foundation, email: info@kathradafoundation.org or to The Secretary: M Naidoo: progressprimaryschool@gmail.com
Please use the application form to apply. Click HERE to access the form.
For further information contact the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation: (011) 854-7037.
