The Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme is a multiyear effort to mold an integrated understanding of the other country and regions and to encourage relationships between Africa and Germany. It has been offered as a response to concerns about an increasing political and cultural separation between Africa and Europe. The bursary is planned to help young journalists to attain valuable insights into the political, economic, cultural as well as social fabric of the host country.

The bursary is named in honor of the former Federal President Horst Köhler and his honorable dedication to the intensification of German-African relations.

Requirements for the 2023 International Journalists‘ Programmes (IJP) SA Journalists’ Bursary Programme:

• For all selected IJP fellows the programme starts with an introductory conference. This will allow the participants from Southern Africa to familiarise themselves with the host country. After that, they will work for several weeks with media houses before going out to undertake individual research within Germany.
• Applicants are asked to submit their preferences for the newspaper, radio or TV station, or news agency they would like to work with. The possible location will be chosen by the IJP organizers in dialogue with each delegate. It is expected that former and new participants assist one another with regard to accommodation and contacts.

Benefits

• The Southern African delegates receive a fixed payment of 3,000 euros. This is expected to cover most of their travel, accommodation, and living expenses. No further payments will be made: delegates are expected to use their own funds for any further costs. Payment for their work with the host media is not envisaged.
• To receive the full grant participants are obliged to write a report of at least three pages and provide copies of their published journalistic work after returning home.

Application Procedure

All journalists from Southern Africa (SADC Member States and Kenia) between the age of 25 and 40 who regularly work for a media organization can apply.

1. Enclose a CV with a passport photograph.

2. Write an 800-word essay addressing the following topics:

• Why you would like to work in Germany
• What do you expect from IJP and what do you think you can contribute to it?
• What are the 3 research topics you want to pursue during the fellowship?
• What role do you expect to play in your home media in the future?
• How you will spend the bursary?

3. Include a one-page resume detailing your education and work experience, your standard of German and English (copies of certificates/ e.g. Goethe Institut/Toefel), plus 2 copies of articles written by you (TV and radio journalists must type up their reports since no audio or video tapes can be considered)

4. A journalistic reference from your editor or head of department is required (freelancers should submit a reference from a senior journalist). It should also guarantee your leave of absence for the duration of the program.