WHY AFRICA?
Africa has the highest extreme poverty rates in the world. About 429 million people in Africa live below the extreme poverty line, which is about a third of the continent’s population. 1 With 70% of the entire population under 30, youth are one of Africa’s greatest reasons for optimism, and access to higher education for this youth should be a major driver for economic development, social cohesion and lasting peace. Yet, tapping into this potential continues to face several challenges.2
Enrollment: The tertiary gross enrollment ratio (GER) in Sub-Saharan Africa is 9%, which is much lower than the global average of over 38%. However, some countries have higher enrollment rates, such as South Africa at 20%.3
Funding: Higher education in Africa is underfunded at the national level, with an average of 0.38% of GDP invested in research and development. This is much lower than the 2.25% average in Europe and North America.4
Capacity: Public university capacity is insufficient to match demand in many countries.5
EDUCATION IS THE SOLUTION!
According to numerous research, education shall play a key role in eradicating poverty in Africa. The success of the African continent lies in the empowerment of its youth through education.67
“Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.”
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,”
Nelson Mandela
1 Million African Scholarship (1MAS)
The International Open University (IOU) endeavors to strengthen the capabilities of African youth through the provision of quality higher education. Earning a university degree helps disadvantaged students create a beneficial livelihood for themselves and in turn others, as well as empowers them adequately to work towards the eradication of poverty in their communities. In 2017, IOU launched the African scholarships project with the aim of educating one million African students. Alhamdulillaah, within 7 years we have reached 27 countries and have offered scholarships to more than 6,000 students.
New Scholarships per Year
We’ve granted scholarships across Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Jamaica, Kenya, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
1MAS LEARNING CENTERS
During the implementation of the 1MAS project in Africa we faced various challenges. Most students did not have computers, electricity was erratic, and the internet was expensive. The problem was solved by setting up the IOU learning centers which were equipped with computers, internet facility, and basic furniture in collaboration with the educational institutions, government offices, NGOs, and other charitable organizations and individuals. As of today, 32 1MAS learning centers have been established across Africa – Alhamdulillaah.
1MAS HIGHLIGHTS
TESTIMONIALS
Lamin Dibba
Mubarak Sani Muhammad
Country: Nigeria
Profession: IT Support
This transformative journey at IOU has altered my life's trajectory, unveiling a vast expanse of profound knowledge, contemplation, and introspection. The educational experience at IOU is distinctive, quipping students with practical wisdom and skills for real- world challenges.
Yusuf Ademola Adesina
Country: Nigeria
Profession: Bursary Officer
Studying with IOU has introduced me to wide ocean of knowledge and experience on academic and research skills which was made possible because of the university's high academic standard. With my knowledge of Psychology, I have voluntarily served as assistant psychologist and freelance writer for a number of non-governmental mental health organizations
Abdulkadir Bashir Adeshola
Country: Nigeria
Profession: IT Support
The comprehensive education I received at IOU has equipped me with a deep understanding of Islamic principles and practices. This knowledge, combined with the university's emphasis on practical application, has empowered me to make a significant impact in my community.
Ntokozo Innocent
Country: Eswatini
Being an IOU student has inspired me and made me an active member of my society through its community project initiative. I have also developed some skills that I never possessed such as working digitally and compiling scholarly work.
THE CHALLENGE!
We have gathered and spent more than $2 Million in the establishment and operations of the 1MAS project. Currently, more than 2,500 active students are studying at the IOU under the 1MAS project. As of the current semester i.e. Fall 2024, IOU has exhausted all the donations collected for the 1MAS project, therefore, the future of thousands of students is at risk.
YOUR SUPPORT CAN SAVE THE FUTURE OF THOUSANDS OF LIVES!
| SPONSOR A STUDENT | COST (USD) |
| ONE SEMESTER | 200 |
| ONE YEAR | 400 |
| TWO YEARS | 800 |
| THREE YEARS | 1,200 |
| COMPLETE DEGREE | 1,600 |
| GRADUATION FEE | 100 |
| TOTAL SPONSORSHIP OF A 1MAS STUDENT | $1,700 |
Annual Reports
References
5 ACCESS TO TERTIARY EDUCATION: Country Comparison using Gross Enrolment Ratio (March, 2023)
Country: Gambia
Profession: 1MAS CM
The 1 Million African Scholarship (1MAS) has played a great role in my academic pursuit. The journey is indeed a blessed one, I have earned knowledge that can be applied to benefit in both this world and the hereafter, Alhamdulillah.