The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kenya has opened applications for fully funded Master’s scholarships in geo-information and earth observation.
These scholarships are offered through the Resilient Approach in Natural Rangeland Ecosystems (RANGE) programme, targeting students from Isiolo, Marsabit, and Samburu counties.
The five-year initiative, running from 2024 to 2028, aims to strengthen the resilience of communities in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands through sustainable rangeland management, inclusive livelihoods, and evidence-based decision-making.
The RANGE programme combines community engagement, landscape interventions, governance initiatives, and private sector partnerships with a strong emphasis on research.
It supports early warning systems, innovation, and adaptive solutions in ASAL regions, ensuring that interventions are informed by local knowledge and practical experience.
Following successful intakes in 2024 and 2025, the scholarships cover a full-time MSc at the Faculty of ITC, University of Twente in the Netherlands. The programme focuses on young professionals who can translate research into practical solutions for their communities.
RANGE is implemented by Mercy Corps, FCDC, and the University of Twente’s ITC faculty, alongside local partners.
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Research activities are largely conducted through Local Research Partners, including MSc and PhD students from the target counties or those with extensive experience working in the region.
The programme also emphasizes capacity building to ensure sustainable practices continue beyond its duration.
Eligible applicants must be Kenyan citizens from Isiolo, Marsabit, or Samburu with a relevant Bachelor’s degree awarded in 2018 or later, preferably with a Second Class Upper or higher.
Selection considers professional or personal experience in pastoralism, employment in RANGE-related areas, and motivation to specialize in geospatial sciences, particularly Resources Security or Urban and Land Futures.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should apply via the official RANGE programme portal after reviewing the programme brochure.
The application deadline is March 1, 2026, and pre-selected applicants will proceed with the official ITC MSc application process. The September 2026 intake will be the final cohort under the RANGE programme.
