About the opportunity
The Maria Rosario Lazzati Niada Scholarship is designed to support talented Afghan women who hold a university degree in pursuing a two-year master’s programme at the Geneva Graduate Institute. Established in memory of Maria Rosario Lazzati Niada, a dedicated advocate for women’s education in Afghanistan, the scholarship aims to provide recipients with advanced knowledge in international relations and development. By facilitating access to higher education abroad, the programme seeks to empower Afghan women to overcome current educational restrictions in their home country and prepare them for careers in academia, diplomacy, international organizations, or the corporate sector.
Funding and benefits
- Full or partial scholarship support for a two-year master's programme at the Geneva Graduate Institute
Who can apply?
- Must be an Afghan woman
- Must hold a university degree
- Must be applying for a two-year master's programme at the Geneva Graduate Institute
Required documents
- Application form
- Supporting documents as specified in the official programme flyer
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Midnight)
How to apply
- Review the official programme flyer for detailed requirements
- Submit the application via the official online form provided by the Geneva Graduate Institute
Additional information
- The scholarship is specifically for the 2027-2028 academic year intake.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Afghan women currently facing barriers to higher education who hold an undergraduate degree and seek to advance their expertise in international relations or development.
- Individuals aiming for professional careers in international diplomacy, NGOs, or global corporate environments who would benefit from the Geneva Graduate Institute's specialized curriculum.
What should you think carefully about?
- Applicants must be prepared to relocate to Geneva, Switzerland, for the duration of the two-year master's programme.
- The scholarship is highly competitive and specifically targets candidates who meet the academic and background criteria established by the memorial fund.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for Afghan women to secure a high-quality international education in a field that directly addresses global development and diplomacy. It serves as a vital bridge for those whose educational paths have been interrupted or restricted, providing the necessary credentials to enter the global professional workforce.
Our take
Afghan women with a university degree who are committed to pursuing a master's degree in international relations or development should prioritize this application. It is a targeted, mission-driven opportunity that offers significant support for those seeking to overcome systemic educational barriers.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified




