The German Bundestag International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) Programme is an opportunity for young, passionate sub-Saharan Africans to visit Berlin, Germany, and experience how the German Parliament works.
This program is for people who care about politics and want to improve democracy and leadership in their own countries.
If you’re curious about how laws are made, how politicians make decisions, and how to run community projects, this program is perfect for you.
What is the IPS Programme?
The German Bundestag (parliament) started this program in 2020 to help young people from Africa learn about democracy, political systems, and leadership.
Each year, 24 young leaders are selected to visit Berlin, where they learn how the German government works.
Participants will:
- Work with German politicians.
- Join workshops on leadership, anti-corruption, and project management.
- Visit important historical sites in Germany.
The goal is to help you take what you learn back home and use it to improve democracy and leadership in your country.
When and where will it happen?
Each year, the program runs from January 5 to February 3, in Berlin, the capital of Germany.
You’ll spend four weeks learning about how the German parliament works and how decisions are made.
What will you do during the programme?
The program is divided into different activities that will help you understand politics better.
1. Internship with a German Politician
For one week, you will work directly with a member of the German Bundestag (parliament).
You’ll see how they:
- Write speeches and reports.
- Hold meetings and events.
- Make important decisions.
2. Workshops and Training Sessions
You will also take part in workshops to improve your leadership and project management skills.
Some topics that will be covered include:
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- How Democracy Works — Understanding how decisions are made in government.
- Minority Rights and Inclusion — Learning how to protect minority groups.
- Anti-Corruption — Finding ways to fight corruption in government.
- Intercultural Training — Learning how to work with people from different cultures.
- Project Management — Learning how to run successful projects that help your community.
3. Exploring Germany’s History and Culture
Germany has a rich history.
You will visit:
- The Reichstag Building, where the German Parliament meets.
- Memorials and museums that show how Germany overcame past challenges.
These visits will help you understand how history affects politics today.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
If you are selected, the program will cover all major costs.
This includes:
- 700 euros per month to cover your expenses.
- Free accommodation in a residential complex.
- Flight costs to and from Berlin.
- Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage.
Who can apply for the scholarship?
To qualify for the program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be younger than 30 years on or before January 1, 2026.
- Education: You must have completed university studies (bachelor’s degree or higher).
- Language Skills: You need a good understanding of German (at least B2 level).
- Nationality: You must be from one of the following countries:
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- Southern Africa: Botswana, Namibia, South Africa.
- East Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda.
- West Africa: Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal.
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- Interest in politics: You must care about democracy and have been involved in social or political activities.
How to apply
To apply, send your application as a PDF file by email to the German embassy in your country.
You can find the email address that you will send your application to here.
Important application rules:
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- The PDF file must be less than 10 MB.
- If the file is bigger than 10 MB, split it into multiple emails.
- Do not send ZIP files.
What documents do you need to apply for the scholarship?
To complete your application, include documents like:
- The Application form (filled out and signed in German).
- Proof of your German language skills (not older than two years).
- Letter of motivation (in German, signed by hand, max two pages).
- Copy of passport or ID (to prove your nationality).
- University degree certificate (original or officially certified copy in English or German).
- Letter of recommendation (from a teacher or employer explaining why you are a good fit for the program).
Why should you apply?
This program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to:
- Learn how democracy works in Germany.
- Develop leadership and project management skills.
- Network with young leaders from other African countries.
- Gain experiences that will help you improve democracy in your own country.
Where to find more information
For more information on the program, you can check the German Bundestag website below:
To find the contact details of the German embassy in your country, visit:
The German Bundestag IPS Programme is more than just a trip – it’s a chance to grow, learn, and become a better leader.
If you are passionate about politics and want to make a difference in your community, don’t miss this opportunity.
