DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholar, Ayodele Idowu from Nigeria, Shares His Journey of Pursuing a Master’s in Development Economics at the University of Göttingen

My name is Ayodele Idowu, and I come from Nigeria. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Development Economics in the Economics department at the University of Göttingen, Germany, as a recipient of the DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship. My decision to study Development Economics stems from my passion for understanding the dynamics that shape growth and economic development in low- and middle-income countries. Over the years, I have also built strong expertise in data science and applied econometrics, and I am particularly interested in using data-driven methods to uncover patterns, evaluate policies, and design solutions that can improve people’s lives.

Beyond core development economics, I specialize in Environmental Economics and Agricultural Economics, where I explore the intersection of climate, trade, and sustainable development. By combining economics with data science tools such as Python, R, and geospatial analysis, my goal is to bring fresh insights into how environmental policies, agricultural systems, and economic structures shape development outcomes. My long-term vision is to use this blend of economics and data science to contribute to evidence-based policies that promote resilience and inclusive growth in developing countries.

DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship Details

I am a recipient of the DAAD Leadership for Africa (LfA) Scholarship, which fully funds my Master’s studies at the University of Göttingen. The scholarship covers my tuition, living expenses, and health insurance, and also includes a German language course before starting my program.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I received offers from a few scholarships at some universities in the United States. However, those opportunities only provided partial funding, which meant I would still need to cover some part of my expenses. In contrast, the DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship stood out because it is fully funded, covering tuition, living costs, health insurance, and even a German language course. This made DAAD the best choice for me at that time, as it removed the financial burden and allowed me to focus fully on my studies and research.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. My undergraduate training gave me strong foundations in economics, statistics, and research. It also exposed me to Nigeria’s development challenges firsthand, which shaped my interest in pursuing Development Economics. Later on, I gained research experience and published papers in areas such as environmental economics, energy economics, and econometrics, which made me confident in applying for graduate studies.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Göttingen?

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and the University of Göttingen?

I found most scholarship information through the DAAD official website, scholarship platforms, and social media pages dedicated to funding opportunities. I also joined WhatsApp and Telegram groups where students shared tips and links to available programs.

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

For DAAD, I was not required to take standardized tests like the GRE or IELTS because I had completed my undergraduate degree in English. However, I took a German language course sponsored by DAAD before starting my program, even though my program is fully taught in English.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Scholarship(s)?

I carefully studied the DAAD requirements and worked on my motivation letter, CV, and other required documents, such as proof of work experience and an intended research idea in Germany. At first, I struggled because I had faced several rejections in the past. But I kept improving my documents with each attempt. I also sought feedback from friends and people who had applied before. One important step was tailoring my application to show not only my academic achievements but also my leadership potential and vision for contributing to development in Africa; this is something DAAD cherishes a lot.

How is (was) Your Experience at the University of Göttingen?

So far, my experience at the University of Göttingen has been enriching. The courses are rigorous and very research-oriented, which challenges me to think critically and improve my analytical skills. I also work as a Student Research Assistant with a research group in one of the Chairs in the department, where I support ongoing funded research projects. This role has helped me connect my past work experience and classroom learning with practical research.

How Do You Rate the University of Göttingen Academically and Why?

Academically, I would rate the University of Göttingen very highly. The professors are experts in their fields, the coursework is demanding, and there are many resources available for research. I also appreciate the international environment, as I get to learn from classmates from different countries with diverse perspectives.

How Does the University of Göttingen Support International Students?

The University of Göttingen has strong support for international students through its International Office. DAAD also provides additional support such as preparatory language classes, integration programs, and a network of scholars across Germany. This has made the transition to studying in a new country much smoother.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German?

My Master’s program is fully conducted in English.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing German?

Not really. Since the program is taught in English, students don’t face academic challenges because of language. However, learning German is very helpful for everyday life in Germany and for networking or work opportunities outside the university.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because I combined my academic achievements (such as research publications and my undergraduate performance) with professional experiences. But more importantly, I presented a clear story: I showed how my background, my struggles with earlier rejections, and my long-term vision for contributing to Africa’s development all connected. DAAD values both academic and research potential and leadership, and I made sure my application highlighted both.

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

If I were to go through the process again, I would start preparing much earlier. In my earlier applications, I underestimated the importance of having my documents reviewed and polished over and over and over again, even though it can not be perfect, but consistent revision would really reveal where I need to make some changes and present myself better. I also learned that persistence is key, so I would tell my earlier self not to get discouraged by rejections but to see them as part of the journey.

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

My main advice is: do not give up after rejections. Each “no” is an opportunity to refine your story. Focus on three things:

1. Be clear about your motivation, why you want the scholarship, and how it connects to your future goals.
2. Show evidence of leadership, impact, or potential beyond academics.
3. Start early and seek feedback on your documents.

Finally, remember that your journey is unique. What makes you different is what can make your application stand out.