At the World Bank, the Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) is on a mission to empower students and young researchers. Their goal? To create innovative ways to build skills and share knowledge in the developing world.
Why is this Important?
The World Bank believes in investing in education, building capacity, and nurturing human resources in developing nations. This is key to driving economic development and ensuring prosperity is shared among communities.
Impact Over the Years
Since 1982, the DEC’s scholarship programs have made a significant impact. They’ve supported over 6,000 well-trained professionals and scholars. These individuals, armed with expertise, are transforming their countries and leaving a positive mark for future generations.
Current Opportunities
- Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP):
Enabling over 6,000 mid-career professionals from 160 developing countries and Japan to pursue graduate degrees in development-related fields since 1987.
This program is solely funded by the Government of Japan, providing an annual opportunity for growth and learning.
- Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP):
Since 1982, this program has been a pillar of support for young researchers in various development-related fields.
It connects promising researchers to World Bank resources, offering technical expertise and formal training.
Selected fellows work together at the World Bank in Washington D.C., contributing to DEC research projects and engaging in policy-relevant research.
Past Initiatives
Japan Indonesia Presidential Scholarship Program (JIPS):
- No longer accepting applications, this program, backed by a $10 million grant from the Government of Japan, supported three cohorts (2008–2010) of 43 Indonesian PhD students.
- It facilitated studying abroad under the sponsorship of ten partner Indonesian universities
Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program (JJ/WBGSP)
Are you from a developing country, passionate about your nation’s development, and looking to pursue a master’s degree? The JJ/WBGSP is here for you!
What You Need to Know:
- Open to citizens of specific developing countries with a track record of supporting their nation’s development.
- Focus on master’s degree programs related to key development areas like economic policy management, tax policy, and infrastructure management.
Application Rounds for 2024:
- Window #1: Apply from January 15 to February 29, 2024, by 12:00 noon EST.
- Selected applicants will be announced by the end of March 2024.
- Window #2: Apply from March 25 to May 24, 2024, by 12:00 noon EST.
- Selected applicants will be announced towards the end of June 2024.
Special Application Procedure:
- Scholars commit to returning to their home country after earning their degree.
- They use their new skills to contribute to their country’s social and economic development.
What the Scholarship Covers:
- Tuition fees.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Round-trip airfare.
- Health insurance.
- Travel allowance.
Explore the World Bank’s RSMFP for Aspiring Researchers
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) by the World Bank is your gateway to hands-on research experience. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
What’s It About?
- Connects researchers from developing countries with World Bank experts.
- Offers an 8-month fellowship in Washington, D.C., focusing on policy-relevant research.
Key Features:
- Work with World Bank DEC researchers on impactful projects.
- Get trained in cutting-edge research practices and technologies.
- Attend seminars by top economists for skill enhancement.
- Write a blog based on your research, contributing to policy discussions.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Competitive compensation of $44,888 (net of taxes) for the 8-month fellowship.
- Assistance with G4 visa application for candidates hosted in Washington, D.C.
Funding and Governance:
- Established in 1982, funded by various countries initially.
- Collaboration with JJ/WBGSP for a pilot initiative, supported by the Government of Japan.
- Governed by a Steering Committee, Selection Committee, and a Secretariat.
Next Steps:
- Applications for the 2023 cohort are closed.
- Mark your calendar: Applications open on February 1st, 2024.
Explore Your Opportunities
Interested in shaping the future through education and development? Discover more opportunities at Muxbay,and take the next step in your journey.
