The Fulbright Scholarship meeting, held on December 4th, 2024, at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) highlighted the opportunities that can be leveraged on to optimise the Fulbright Scholarships. The discussions were led by the U.S Embassy officers; Ms. Veronica Ssempebwa, the US Public Engagement Specialist and Ms. Amy Peterson, the Public Engagement Officer.
The Vice Chancellor MUST Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika welcomed the delegation and commended their support to MUST. She highlighted the need for having more capacity building engagements for staff and students.
Established in 1946 under the U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright, the Fulbright program, promotes academic exchanges and international cooperation. Since its introduction in Uganda in the 1950s, the program has supported over 400 Ugandans in pursuing higher education or research in the U.S by notable leaders.
Study Abroad Engagement Grants
The Fulbright Program offers two primary categories:
Fulbright Foreign Student Program (FSP)
Eligibility: Open to masters and PhD candidates with at least three years of professional experience. Applicants must submit a focused research proposal, especially for PhD applications, and are encouraged to identify potential U.S. universities and advisors in advance.
Selection Process: Annually, three students are selected to ensure regional balance across Uganda. Applications are accepted between January and March, with interviews in June or July. Successful candidates travel the following year.
Key Tips: Applicants should submit concise, well-structured applications, emphasizing their current position, academic goals, and plans after returning to Uganda. Consulting past Fulbright scholars for application guidance is highly recommended.
Fulbright African Research Scholar Program (ARS)
Eligibility: Tailored for postdoctoral researchers with a specific project or curriculum development proposal. Applicants must hold a PhD and be affiliated with a recognized institution. Proposals should demonstrate the potential to improve classroom instruction or university outreach.
Duration and Funding: Research grants range from 3 to 9 months, with a focus on applicants already connected to U.S. institutions or professors.
Additional opportunities were also discussed.
Fulbright Distinguished Program for Secondary Teachers: Tailored for educators to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Fulbright Specialist Program: Allows institutions like MUST to invite U.S. specialists for short-term collaborative projects.
Staff and students interested in different USA scholarship opportunities were encouraged to explore the EducationUSA website for more resources.
The informative session underscored the Fulbright Program’ commitment to fostering academic excellence and cultural exchange. MUST community is encouraged to engage in these programs to further their academic and professional aspirations.
For further inquiries and guidance, please contact MUST’s International Relations Office.
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