Local Chapter
DAFI Scholars in Malawi
The Malawi DAFI Scholars Club connects refugee students supported under the DAFI scholarship program. Scholars actively participate in workshops, mentoring, volunteering, and community-building initiatives to develop leadership skills and social cohesion.
Members engage in educational outreach, peer support, and motivational programs while building friendships and networks that extend beyond the classroom.
Global Context
DAFI Scholarship: Global Impact
The Albert Einstein German Academic Refugee Initiative (DAFI), administered by UNHCR, is the flagship scholarship program supporting refugee students worldwide. Since its inception in 1992, DAFI has enabled over 27,200 refugee students across 59 countries to access higher education, offering tuition, living stipends, books, accommodation, and travel allowances.
In 2024, women made up 45% of all DAFI scholars, with 60% of newly awarded scholarships going to female students. Targeted programs in countries such as Ethiopia, Pakistan, and Rwanda provide bridging classes, academic tutoring, and financial support to ensure that young women transition successfully to higher education.
Refugees like Claudine from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sarah from Congo illustrate DAFI’s transformative impact. Claudine, who grew up in Kiziba refugee camp in Rwanda, completed her Bachelor’s of Law at the University of Rwanda and now works as a case manager supporting fellow refugees. Sarah, a Congolese refugee in South Africa, works as a program officer at the Mandela Institute for Development Studies.
Beyond academic achievement, DAFI promotes social cohesion, self-reliance, and sustainable livelihoods. The program emphasizes vocational and technical training, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and work-based learning.
In 2024, a total of 7,890 refugee students were enrolled across 58 host countries. UNHCR continues to enhance monitoring, research, and partnerships to better understand the impact of higher education on refugees.
The DAFI program is not just a scholarship — it is a pathway to transformation. Refugee students are empowered to build knowledge, leadership, and resilience, becoming agents of change in their communities.
Join Us
Becoming a Member
Every student selected under the DAFI scholarship automatically becomes a member of the Malawi DAFI Scholars Club. Membership offers peer networks, mentorship, and the chance to engage in community and leadership activities.
Members abide by the constitution, attend trainings, and actively contribute to initiatives promoting education, volunteering, and community development.
Explore Stories
Our Purpose
Vision & Mission
Vision
A united community of DAFI scholars leading sustainable development, innovation, and mutual growth.
Mission
To nurture educated, empowered, and self-reliant young leaders who champion education and societal progress.
Our Work
What We Do
Entrepreneurship & Skills Training
Workshops on business, financial literacy, and digital skills — helping scholars gain independence.
Awareness Campaigns & Outreach
Programs on health, gender, peace, and environment that benefit refugee and host communities.
Motivational Support & Mentorship
Mentorship, recognition, and small grants funded internally or through partners.
Community Service & Volunteering
Members lead initiatives and receive certificates or professional references.