The Pauline Bakibinga Memorial Scholarship was established in September 2022 to honor the memory of Dr. Pauline Bakibinga, former research scientist at the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC). Pauline was passionate about digital health and its potential to transform health systems on the African continent. Amidst her busy schedule as a full-time researcher, she created time to mentor young women with an interest in improving the health outcomes of other women and children.
Amount and period of award
Each year, between USD 5,000 and 10,000 worth of scholarship funding is awarded to a promising female student who resides in East Africa and is registered at an African University, to assist with research project costs (not tuition) towards a master’s degree program that focuses on digital health. A maximum of USD 10,000 will be awarded each year between 2024 and 2028. Applicants from Mbarara University of Science and Technology and those affiliated with Busoga Health Forum are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility and expectations
To be considered for the Scholarship, applicants must have attained an undergraduate degree and received admission for a master’s degree program focusing on the broad area of public health and research topic that embraces the application of digital health innovations.
Awarding of the Pauline Bakibinga Memorial Scholarship is contingent on several criteria including acceptance to and enrollment in a master’s program, and a completed application. Additionally, applicants are required to submit an essay (not exceeding 500 words) demonstrating their motivation. Scholarship recipients are expected to uphold a high standard of conduct.
Whereas this Scholarship award does not bind the recipient to APHRC or their current employer, and are not under any obligation to repay, it is hoped that once a recipient graduates and is engaged in a productive career, she will help honor the memory of Pauline by giving future students similar higher education opportunities by contributing to similar causes and giving back to the community.
How to apply
The application process has two steps. The first step involves completing a short online survey accessible by clicking here. The second step involves sending as one PDF file, a document containing:
- Statement of purpose/motivation essay (1-page max);
- Two letters of recommendation (each 1-page max, and one of them must be from an academic supervisor);
- Academic certificates; and
- Proof of admission into a master’s degree program.
The document is to be sent via email to [email protected] with the name of the scholarship in the subject line of the email. One must complete the online survey before sending the pdf file as it will be used to determine your eligibility to the program. Deadline for application is March 25, 2024. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Review and award
Your application will be reviewed by members of the Scholarship Committee. Selection will be based on applicant’s commitment to contribute to digital health, overall academic performance, and or prior experience in digital health-related research. Finalists will be invited for an interview and notified of the outcome by email of any scholarship award within a month thereafter.