Refugees residing in Kenya, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe can apply for one of the 68 scholarships in 41 Italian universities. The Florence School Transnational Governance (STG) will welcome one student to its two-year Master in Transnational Governance programme in September 2024.
Professor Emma Lees, Director of the Master in Transnational Governance programme, said: “The European University Institute is delighted to help bridge the education gap for refugees through the UNICORE initiative, which is one of the priorities of the Institute’s internationalisation and inclusion strategies.
“At the Florence STG, we believe in the transformative power of education and in fostering an inclusive learning environment that welcomes diverse perspectives and experiences. This enriches the educational journey for both our refugee students and our wider academic community.”
With participation from 45 universities in Italy, since 2019, UNICORE has already awarded over 250 scholarships to individuals from various African countries experiencing conflict and displacement.
UNICORE goes beyond simply providing financial support. Through a network of partners, including the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, charities, and local organisations, the initiative facilitates academic success and social integration for enrolled students. This holistic approach ensures a smooth transition and fosters a sense of belonging within the university environment.
UNICORE student Puot Nyang Both completed the Master in Transnational Governance in June 2023 and is now working at the Florence STG.
"From a refugee background with less privilege, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to join the Florence STG and study with talented people from diverse backgrounds from all over the world,” Puot Nyang Both said after the graduation ceremony.
By participating in UNICORE, the EUI joins a global movement aiming to achieve a 15% enrolment rate in higher education for refugees by 2030.
The UNICORE call for applications closes on 15 april 2024. Find more information about the initiative at https://universitycorridors.unhcr.it.
Read more about the Master in Transnational Governance programme and its application requirements.