We’re delighted to announce that two students from Malawi have been able to accept their offer of a place at the Blavatnik School of Government thanks to the generosity of the African Democratic Institute (ADI). The students will arrive in September 2013 to commence the Blavatnik School’s 12-month Master of Public Policy programme.

George Sibotshiwe, Executive Director of the African Democratic Institute, said, “Our vision is to increase the quality, value, and extent of democracy in Africa. These two students have shown great promise in their careers so far, and now, through the Masters in Public Policy programme at the Blavatnik School of Government, they will combine expert knowledge with the practical skills needed to become great leaders in the service of the public good. It is a privilege for us to be able to help make that possible.”

Ngaire Woods, Dean of the Blavatnik School, praised the ADI, “It is through the exceptional support and philanthropic commitment of organizations such as the ADI that we are able to attract the best students to pursue their studies at the Blavatnik School, regardless of their financial means. During their time at the School, students will develop a powerful network of peers within which they can expand their knowledge, learn from one another, test new ideas, mentor future generations, and remain at the cutting edge of research on government and public policy for years after their formal education.”

The scholarships from ADI are two of a suite of awards and scholarships secured by the Blavatnik School for incoming students. Nearly 70 students from 38 different countries, aged 21 to 46 years old, are expected to arrive in Oxford to begin their MPP course on 26 September.  All the incoming students have distinguished themselves through a demonstrated commitment to public service, as well as exceptional academic ability. The School is deeply committed to expanding its network of partnerships and build on efforts for graduate student support in the future.

About the Blavatnik School of Government

The Blavatnik School of Government is a global school pursuing a vision of better government, stronger societies, and richer human opportunities across the world. It was launched on 20 September 2010, with a £75 million donation to Oxford from American philanthropist Leonard Blavatnik. The School welcomed its first cohort of students in 2012.

About the African Democratic Institute

The African Democratic Institute (ADI) is an independent non-profit and non-governmental organisation based in Johannesburg South Africa. It was founded in 2009 and currently runs active programs in Swaziland, Malawi, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Morocco and Senegal. The ADI’s objectives are to enhance democracy and democratic values; encourage the development of democratic leadership within the African continent; and empower citizens to increase participation in national issues. http://www.africandemocraticinstitute.co.za/