SDC Inclusion Scholarship


Overview

The SDC Inclusion Scholarship, offered by the Southasia Institute for History and Philosophy (SiHP) and supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) under the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), Switzerland, is an initiative aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and social inclusion within the MA in History & Philosophy (MAHP) programme. The scholarship seeks to expand access to higher education for students from historically marginalised and underrepresented communities in Nepal.

Through a strategic intersectional, gender- and social-inclusion-sensitive approach, the scholarship encourages participation from individuals who have traditionally faced barriers to higher education. By supporting these students, the scholarship contributes to building a diverse academic environment and a cohort of socially aware graduates capable of engaging with complex historical, philosophical, and social issues in Nepal and the wider South Asian region.

About the Fellowship Provider

The SDC Inclusion Fellowship is supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), the international cooperation agency of the Government of Switzerland under the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

The SDC works globally to reduce poverty, promote sustainable development, strengthen democratic institutions, and improve access to education and economic opportunities. Through partnerships with governments, academic institutions, and civil society organisations, the agency supports programmes that foster inclusive development, social equity, and human rights.

Through its support for initiatives such as the SDC Inclusion Fellowship, the agency contributes to the development of future scholars, researchers, and professionals who can help address social inequalities and promote inclusive development within their societies.

The SDC places particular emphasis on empowering women, youth, and disadvantaged communities by improving access to education, strengthening governance systems, addressing climate challenges, and supporting sustainable economic development.

More information about the SDC can be found at:
https://www.eda.admin.ch

Scholarship Objectives

The SDC Inclusion Scholarship aims to:

• Promote inclusive access to graduate education for students from historically marginalised communities
• Strengthen diversity and representation within the MAHP programme
• Encourage critical academic engagement with social and historical issues
• Support the development of socially responsible scholars and future leaders
• Foster a learning environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences

Seat Allocation

The scholarship structure ensures regional and social representation.

The available seats are allocated as follows:

This allocation framework promotes broader participation and representation across different regions of the country.

Application Process and Required Documents

Applicants must first apply for admission to the MA in History & Philosophy (MAHP) programme at the Southasia Institute for History and Philosophy (SiHP). The application should be completed according to the official admission guidelines provided by the institute.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review the application instructions, eligibility requirements, and document submission procedures before applying.

Applicants are required to submit all necessary academic and supporting documents as part of the MAHP programme application.

After submitting the application, the MAHP admissions committee will review all applications based on academic qualifications, motivation, and overall suitability for the programme.

Applicants who meet the programme’s academic and admission requirements may receive a conditional offer of admission. A conditional offer indicates that the applicant has been provisionally accepted into the programme, subject to the completion and verification of required documentation or other conditions specified by the admissions office.

Receiving a conditional offer is an important step, as only applicants who obtain this offer may be considered for the SDC Inclusion Scholarship.

Applicants who receive a conditional offer of admission may then be considered for the SDC Inclusion Scholarship. At this stage, candidates will be required to submit additional information and supporting documents that demonstrate their eligibility for the scholarship and their need for financial support.

As part of the scholarship consideration process, applicants are required to submit short written responses addressing the following questions:

1. Financial Need Statement (Approx. 200 words)
Explain why financial assistance is necessary for you to undertake this MA programme. Applicants may describe their current financial situation, family responsibilities, or other constraints that limit their ability to independently finance graduate study.

2. Personal and Social Background (Approx. 200 words)
Describe the social, cultural, or educational background that has shaped your academic interests and aspirations. Applicants may discuss their family background, schooling environment, or formative experiences that influenced their decision to pursue graduate education.

3. Academic Motivation (Approx. 200 words)
Explain what motivates your interest in studying history and/or philosophy. Applicants may describe the questions, experiences, or concerns that inspired their interest in these fields and how they hope their studies will contribute to their future academic, professional, or social engagement.

4. Required Supporting Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

  • Proof of Annual Income Source – Issued by the relevant authority or local Ward Office.
  • Property Evaluation Certificate – Indicating the current market value of property, issued by the Ward Office.
  • Document Certifying Minority Status – Official identification confirming minority status (if applicable).
  • Proof of Residence – A document confirming permanent residence (e.g., recommendation letter from Ward Office or Municipality).
  • Two Reference Letters – Preferably from recently graduated academic institutions or faculty members.
  • Bank Statement – Statement from the last six months from the applicant’s bank account.
  • Other Supporting Documents – Any additional documents that demonstrate financial need.

The scholarship selection committee will evaluate applications based on financial need, alignment with the scholarship’s inclusion objectives, academic motivation, and the applicant’s potential to contribute to an inclusive and diverse academic environment.

For more information/consultation:

info@sihp.edu.np
+977 9763683887 (WhatsApp)