How a Pakistani DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholar Pursued a Master's in Development Studies in Germany

My name is Aruba Irfan, and I’m from Pakistan. I am a DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholar currently pursuing my Master's degree in Development Studies at the University of Passau, Germany. My passion for development work stems from my academic background in social sciences and was further shaped by my professional experience with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Pakistan. During my time at GIZ, I had the opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world practice in development cooperation, which greatly enhanced my understanding and deepened my interest in contributing to meaningful change, specifically for Climate Change.

About the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship

The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme (also known as Public Policy and Good Governance – PPGG) is a fully funded scholarship offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). It is specifically designed for highly qualified graduates from developing countries who are interested in contributing to the social, political, and economic development of their home countries. The program supports master’s degrees in fields relevant to public policy, governance, and development at selected German universities.

As a Helmut Schmidt Scholar, I benefit from:

• Full tuition waiver
• A monthly stipend of €934
• Health insurance
• Travel allowances
• German language courses (6 months prior to the start of the degree)
• Networking opportunities with other scholars and development professionals

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences with a major in Development Studies from Bahria University, Islamabad, where I graduated with a CGPA of 3.67. This academic journey gave me a strong foundation in the theories and frameworks that underpin development work. It also provided me with opportunities to volunteer and intern, allowing me to gain firsthand experience and broaden my perspective on development work.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Reflecting on what made my application stand out, I believe the most crucial element was my motivation letter. While academic performance and work experience certainly matter, the motivation letter is the heart of your application. It is where your story, goals, and passion come to life. A compelling motivation letter clearly connects your educational background and professional journey with your future aspirations. It should be focused and sincere, showing a genuine commitment to your field and a clear vision for the impact you aim to create. In my case, I ensured that my motivation letter authentically reflected my personal and professional alignment with the values and objectives of the Helmut Schmidt Programme.

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

For students aspiring to apply for similar opportunities, my advice is to apply wherever you feel the program resonates with your goals and background. Don’t be discouraged by rejections; every rejection can be a redirection to something better suited for you. Treat each application as a learning experience. Take the time to craft your motivation letter with care, remain persistent, and most importantly, believe in your potential. Believing in your purpose and staying true to your journey can bring a lot more opportunities.