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.
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. This focus addresses historical gender disparities in education and promotes long-term empowerment.
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, exemplifying how DAFI equips youth for professional and community leadership roles.
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. Scholars gain critical competencies that enable them to contribute to local and global development goals, creating ripple effects in refugee and host communities alike.
Despite a global decline in resources and shifting humanitarian priorities, DAFI continues to expand its reach. 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 and ensure sustainable, inclusive programs.
The DAFI program is not just a scholarship—it is a pathway to transformation. Refugee students are empowered to build knowledge, leadership, and resilience. Through DAFI, scholars become agents of change, contributing meaningfully to their communities and fostering hope for future generations.
DAFI remains committed to breaking cycles of displacement by combining academic excellence with practical skills, mentorship, and life-changing opportunities, ensuring that refugee youth can thrive academically, socially, and professionally, no matter where they are.
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.
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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.
What We Do
Entrepreneurship & Skills Training
Workshops on business, financial literacy, digital skills — helping scholars gain independence.
Awareness Campaigns & Community Outreach
Programs on health, gender, peace, environment — benefiting refugee-host communities.
Motivational Support & Mentorship
Mentorship, recognition, and small grants funded internally or externally.
Community Service & Volunteering
Members lead initiatives and receive certificates or references.