March 1, 2021, by International students

Celebrating 20 years of Developing Solutions

This year marks the 20th anniversary of our flagship Developing Solutions Masters Scholarship.

Founded in 2001, this scholarship programme is for international students who want to make a difference to the development of their home country. High-achieving students from Africa, India and other Commonwealth countries are supported to study a masters degree in our Faculties of Engineering, Medicine and Health Sciences, Sciences and Social Sciences.

In this blog post, current scholars talk about their experiences of studying at the University of Nottingham and their advice to future scholars who want to study with us.

Gabriella from Kenya

Gabriella Kisoi, a Developing Solutions scholar

Gabriella from Kenya

“My motivation for applying to the MSc Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Management programme was my interest in understanding how to shape entrepreneurship and innovation within the African continent, to deliver more sustainable enterprises that make both an impact and an income. The end goal is to become a successful entrepreneur and champion of innovation in Africa.

I am so grateful to have 100% of my tuition fees covered by this scholarship. As a young Kenyan woman, at a time when so much is already against my success, it is incredible to have the opportunity to access world-class higher education. Honestly, if it was not for the Developing Solutions Masters Scholarship, I would not be pursuing my dream degree at my dream university.

I chose Nottingham because of its international reputation for excellence, but now that I am here, I am even more won over by the tight-knit community, the convenient location, as well as the endless opportunities for growth and personal development. I can confidently say that choosing to study here was the best decision of my life – I will leave here, not just with a degree, but with memories and connections for life.

Great things happen when you leave your comfort zone! Coming to Nottingham is a chance to try new things, meet new people and go on new adventures. Use your time here to join a unique society, learn a different language, try out volunteering, explore an array of cities, or take up a leadership position. Go above and beyond simply earning a degree.”

Eric from Ghana

“I am an entrepreneur and physiotherapist with seven years post qualification work experience in a teaching hospital. I chose MSc Sports and Exercise Medicine because I wanted to challenge myself, gain a new skill set and apply the knowledge I already had. The masters programme is highly specialised, with modules on emergency and trauma medicine, as well as physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation. By the end of my degree, I will have the skills to contribute to the study of sports medicine, influence the practice of sports medicine in Ghana and compete with other professionals globally.

The 50% tuition fee scholarship I received through Developing Solutions has been invaluable – it is the most generous support I have ever received, and it has strengthened my motivation to secure enough resources to pursue sports medicine. The scholarship has enabled me focus on my studies and personal development.

The University of Nottingham offers the right environment to learn and work with people from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. The academic and support services are always available to help students develop to their full potential. They appreciate the unique needs and aspirations of each student. Nottingham is the city for young professionals and students to learn and achieve their goals without discrimination. It is always green and full of life.

For 20 years Developing Solutions has invested in the dreams of students from all over the world. It has promoted development and continued to invest in people during economic hardships and the ongoing pandemic. I encourage all future scholars who want to make an impact in their communities through their profession, policy, research and education to apply to this scholarship programme.”

Adeeba from Bangladesh

Adeeba Nuraina, a Developing Solutions scholar

Adeeba from Bangladesh

“I wanted to work in the development sector, leading projects that tackle the environmental consequences of climate change. I felt the programme would give me the right tools to jumpstart my career, as it was tailored to my interest in combining leadership skills with sound environmental knowledge.

It would have been impossible for me to receive a world-class degree without the Developing Solutions scholarship. Simply put, this scholarship provided me with the finances to fulfil my dreams.

What I appreciated the most during my time at Nottingham was the help I received from the friendly and approachable staff. They were always there to help no matter what the issue. The university campuses are some of the best in the UK, with lush greenery and beautiful architecture. The student community is really diverse, making it such an enriching experience for anyone. Nottingham city is also a great place to live, full of vibrant entertainment, culture and facilities.

My advice to future scholars would be: set a goal for yourself and then do everything you can to achieve that goal. Goals are realistic targets of our dreams. Do not be afraid to dream. When actions match ambition, wonderful things can happen.”

Apply for Developing Solutions

Applications for the Developing Solutions Masters Scholarship programme close on Friday 21 May 2021. You must apply for and receive an offer to study a full-time masters in the 2021/22 academic year before applying for this scholarship. Search for courses and find out how to apply.

Posted in ScholarshipsUncategorized