DAAD Scholarship Scholar Ahmad Shabir Hozad from Afghanistan Shares His Journey of Securing a Fully Funded PhD at the Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU), Germany

My name is Ahmad Shabir Hozad, originally from Fayzabad city, located in the northeast of Afghanistan. I am currently a PhD researcher in Circular Economy at Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU) in Germany. My academic background is in Forestry and Natural Resources Management, and I hold a master’s degree in Environmental Technology and Management.

I decided to pursue the Circular Economy because of its strong potential to address environmental challenges by transforming waste into valuable resources. My motivation is rooted in promoting sustainable resource management, improving waste utilization, and contributing to innovative solutions such as composting technologies and circular bioeconomy approaches.

DAAD Doctoral Scholarship Details

I am currently supported by the DAAD Scholarship under the Research Grant program for my PhD studies in Germany.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I have received the following fully funded scholarships:

• A World Bank-supported HEDP program scholarship for my Master’s degree at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand in 2016.
• Türkiye Bursları scholarship for a PhD in Environmental Engineering at Mersin University, Turkey, in 2022.
• DAAD Scholarship for my current PhD in Germany in 2023.

Educational Background

I completed my Bachelor’s degree at Balkh University in Afghanistan in the field of Forestry and Natural Resources Management. I then pursued my Master’s degree in Environmental Technology and Management at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand. This academic background provided me with strong interdisciplinary knowledge in environmental systems, resource management, and sustainability, which directly prepared me for my current research in the circular economy.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU)?

I prepared my application by focusing on aligning my academic background and professional experience with the requirements of the PhD position. I also contacted my supervisor in advance, which helped me refine my research direction and better understand the expectations of the host institution.

How Did You Find Information About the DAAD Doctoral Scholarship and Brandenburg University of Technology (BTU)?

I searched for DAAD scholarship opportunities and academic programs through online platforms, and I followed available institutions for my field via the DAAD search platform for finding universities.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

Yes, I took the IELTS test as part of the DAAD scholarship requirements. I took the test within a limited timeframe and under significant pressure. Therefore, I suggest that applicants prepare for all requirements well in advance before applying for scholarships.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the DAAD Doctoral Scholarship?

I carefully prepared my application documents, particularly focusing on developing a strong research proposal and a well-structured motivation letter. I would also like to acknowledge the support of my supervisor and one of my current colleagues in my chair, who provided valuable guidance during the development of my research proposal and motivation letter. I also built on my academic background, international experience, and professional roles to present a comprehensive and competitive application.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

Since my work is research-focused, most academic communication is conducted in English, and I did not face barriers in the lab or within the chair. However, administrative processes (residency, contracts, permits) are mostly in German, which created some challenges. Not knowing German was not a barrier scientifically, but it did slow down bureaucratic processes.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Not Knowing German?

Not academically. Research and scientific discussions are conducted in English. However, for paperwork and daily administration, it helps a lot to know some German or to have local support.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe several factors collectively contributed to strengthening my application, including a well-developed research proposal; a strong and carefully written motivation letter, which I consider a key component; my academic background and administrative experience at the university; and my international and professional exposure.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I would have started networking earlier, and consulting more external resources could have been helpful. I would also start earlier in building a relationship with the host institution to allow for more collaborative input during the initial stages of the proposal. Additionally, I believe academic research has become increasingly competitive, so I would invest more time in gaining further research experience prior to applying for PhD positions.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice is to focus on building a strong academic and professional profile over time. Applicants should prepare a clear and realistic research proposal, invest significant effort in writing a strong motivation letter, and align their background with the scholarship objectives. Additionally, reaching out to potential supervisors in advance can significantly strengthen an application.