IJP Southern African-German Journalists Programme 2025 (Funded)

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About IJP Southern African-German Journalists Programme

Once a year, journalists from Southern Africa and Germany have the opportunity for a work exchange at a media outlet of their choice, producing content for their home newsroom. The objective of the exchange programme is to highlight issues in Southern Africa, while giving journalists from the region a platform in German media.

The Southern African-German Journalists' Programme is a multiyear effort to foster a deeper understanding between Germany and Africa as a whole. It has been offered in response to concerns about an increasing political and cultural detachment between Africa and Europe. The bursary is intended to enable young journalists to gain valuable insights into the political, economic, cultural and social fabric of the host country.

The bursary is named in honour of the former Federal President Horst Köhler and his exemplary dedication to German-African relations. President Horst Köhler not only campaigned for Africa during his time in office but remains committed to a cultural change in Africa policy that takes account of historical upheavals and takes the global significance of the continent seriously. IP is grateful that Horst Köhler has given his name to the programme.

• Sponsor Organisation: International Journalists’ Programmes (IJP)

Benefits of IJP Southern African-German Journalists Programme

• The Southern African delegates receive a fixed payment of 3,500 Euro. 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 journalisticwork after returning home. 

IJP Southern African-German Journalists Programme Requirements

• All journalists from Southern Africa (SADC Member States and Kenya) are eligible.
• Be between the age of 25 and 40.
• Work regularly for a media organisation.
• Above average English language skills are required.

Application Date and Process

• ​​​​​​​Click on the link to the application website to apply.

Application Documents

1. Enclose a CV with a passport photograph

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

• Why would you like to work in Germany?
• What are the three research topics you
  want to pursue during the fellowship?
• What role do you expect to play at your home media in the future?
• How will you 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 Institute/TOEFL), plus two copies of articles written by you (TV and radio journalists should submit manuscripts or links, 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 programme.

Application Deadline

15 February, 2025

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