The Ruth First Educational Trust, in collaboration with Durham University, is happy to announce the opening of applications for the Ruth First Scholarships for the academic year 2026. This prestigious award supports outstanding postgraduate candidates from historically disadvantaged backgrounds across southern Africa, offering a fully funded opportunity to pursue a taught Master’s degree at Durham University.

Durham University, founded in 1832, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK. Built around the historic Durham Castle and Cathedral, the university has a long tradition of academic excellence and collegiate life. Over the years, it has grown into a world-class institution known for its strong research, global community and rich heritage. Today, Durham continues to combine historic charm with modern learning, attracting students from around the world.

Table of Briefs

Background

The Ruth First Scholarship was established to honour the legacy of Ruth First, a renowned South African anti-apartheid activist, writer and educator dedicated to justice, equality and the empowerment of disadvantaged communities. In line with her lifelong commitment to social transformation, the Ruth First Educational Trust created this scholarship to support promising postgraduate students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds across southern Africa.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Ruth First Scholarship, applicants must meet all essential criteria:

1. Geographical Eligibility

You must be a national of one of the following southern African countries:
Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe

2. Academic Criteria

• Hold a relevant honours degree suitable for admission into your chosen Master’s programme.

• Must not already hold a Master’s degree.

• Must not have previously studied at a university outside southern Africa.

3. Personal & Leadership Qualities

Applicants must demonstrate a strong record of:

• Voluntary or community work
  Examples include: community development, youth or education projects, health initiatives, HIV/AIDS awareness, charity work, human rights, equal opportunities activism, environmental sustainability, social justice.

• Leadership beyond job requirements (if currently employed)

4. Programme Eligibility

• Open to all full-time taught Master’s programmes at Durham University,

• MBA programmes are excluded.

Benefits

The Ruth First Scholarship is fully funded, covering virtually every expense for one year of postgraduate study:

• Full payment of tuition fees

• 12-month living stipend monthly allowance

• Return airfare from home country to the UK + UK internal travel to Durham

• Fully funded accommodation and meals at St Chad’s College

• Settling-in allowance upon arrival

• UK visa fee and health surcharge covered
  This comprehensive funding package ensures scholars can fully focus on their academic and leadership development.

Application Process

1. Apply for a Master’s Course by 28 February 2026

• Submit an academic application via the Durham University Applicant Portal.

• Provide evidence that you are applying for the Ruth First Scholarship.

2. Submit the Scholarship Application by 28 February 2026

• Complete the online scholarship application form.

• Ensure all responses are detailed, clear, and well-structured.

3. Results

• Successful applicants will be notified by end of June 2026.

For help or questions: m.p.thompson@durham.ac.uk

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 28 February 2026.

Conclusion

The Ruth First Scholarship is more than just funding it is a platform for academic excellence, leadership, and positive change. If you are passionate about contributing to the development of southern Africa, and you have the academic ability and commitment to community service, this scholarship can open doors to an extraordinary future.

Apply Now