The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP) is a prestigious program offered by the Swedish Institute (SI). This scholarship is aimed at developing future global leaders who will contribute to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and contribute to positive and sustainable development in their home countries and regions.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the SISGP are:
Foster Future Leaders: The program aims to nurture global leaders who will make significant contributions to sustainable development in their respective countries and globally.
Promote International Cooperation: By bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds, the scholarship fosters international cooperation and understanding.
Enhance Professional Skills: SISGP provides recipients with the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge and skills in their field of study, thereby enhancing their professional competence.
Support Sustainable Development: The scholarship encourages recipients to engage in projects and activities that support the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
History
The Swedish Institute, a government agency, has been promoting Sweden around the world through various programs since its establishment in 1945. The SISGP, which evolved from previous scholarship programs offered by the Swedish Institute, was specifically designed to align with global development agendas and Sweden’s foreign policy goals.
Evolution of the Scholarship Program
Initial Phases (1940s-1980s): Initially, the focus was on cultural exchange and promoting Sweden’s image abroad. Scholarships were granted to international students to study in Sweden, fostering academic and cultural ties.
Development Focus (1990s-2000s): In the 1990s, the program began to emphasize development cooperation, aligning with Sweden’s international development policies. Scholarships were increasingly targeted towards students from developing countries.
Current Form (2010s-Present): In 2010, the scholarship was rebranded as the Swedish Institute Study Scholarships (SISS). In 2018, it was further refined and renamed to the Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals (SISGP). This change marked a shift towards supporting the development of future global leaders who could contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
Program Components
- Tuition Fees and Living Expenses: The SISGP covers tuition fees, living expenses of SEK 10,000 per month, insurance, and a one-time travel grant for the scholarship period.
- Leadership Development Program: Beyond financial support, recipients participate in a leadership program designed to help them develop their leadership skills and create a network of future global leaders.
- Network Building: Scholars become part of the SI Network for Future Global Leaders (NFGL), providing them with opportunities to engage with other professionals and alumni, share experiences, and collaborate on various projects.
Eligibility and Application Process
The SISGP is highly competitive, with specific eligibility criteria:
- Country of Citizenship: Applicants must be from one of the eligible countries specified by the Swedish Institute.
- Professional Experience: A minimum of 3,000 hours of demonstrated work experience is required.
- Leadership Potential: Applicants must show leadership potential through previous involvement in leadership roles or initiatives.
- Admission to Swedish University: Candidates must have applied to a Swedish university and be admitted to one of the eligible master’s programs.
The application process involves submitting various documents, including a motivation letter, CV, and proof of work and leadership experience. The selection process considers the applicant’s academic background, professional experience, leadership potential, and commitment to sustainable development.
Conclusion
The Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals is a testament to Sweden’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and sustainable development. By supporting future global leaders, the program not only enhances the professional capacities of its recipients but also contributes to the broader goal of creating a more sustainable and equitable world.
