Big donation for education: 20 new scholarships for Senegalese students!

Big donation for education: 20 new scholarships for Senegalese students!

On March 8, 2025, the Vision Dindefelo project can report significant progress: an anonymous donation of 14,800 euros that will make it possible to increase the number of scholarships for Senegalese students. With this generous support, the number of scholarships will increase from 80 to 100. This is particularly important for students from educationally disadvantaged families and is realized through the commitment of the Rotary Club of Passau Dreiflussstadt and the Language Center of the University of Passau. This German-Senegalese university scholarship program improves access to education for many young people who might not receive support under normal circumstances. University of Passau reports that the donation will enable the awarding of 20 additional scholarships.

The Vision Dindefelo project is part of a larger framework, the umbrella project Mission Dindefelo, which has been active for over 12 years. This project not only focuses on educational initiatives, but also supports developments in the municipality of Dindefelo in eastern Senegal, particularly in the areas of school infrastructure, medicine, midwifery and agriculture. Over 40 projects have been implemented since Mission Dindefelo began, and the initiative includes annual outreach trips to finance local projects in close collaboration with local partner groups.

Intercultural experiences and study relevance

A crucial component of the program is the service-learning course at the Language Center, which allows students to gain practical experience while achieving academic achievement. At the University of Passau, the duo Veronique Coiffet and Luise Kwak are leading a Barcamp session on intercultural service-learning formats in teacher training courses. In this session, the Vision Dindefelo project will be used as an example to make SDG 17, the partnership to achieve the goals, tangible. The aim is to gain experience of cooperation with civil society associations and thus promote the intercultural competence of the students. ZLF In this context, names several relevant SDGs that are addressed by the initiative: zero poverty, health and well-being, quality education and gender equality.

The next excursion to Senegal is planned for March 7, 2025, where Passau students will have the opportunity to get to know their Senegalese buddies in person and to participate in sustainable projects in Dindefelo. These encounters offer valuable insights into a different education system and the opportunity to experience intercultural learning moments.

Internationalization in the education system

The concept of internationalization plays a crucial role in the education of students to prepare them for life in a globalized world. Exchange sets a precedent describes that schools that want to internationalize should receive impulses and materials to support them. The process is understood as a long-term school development process that strives for transnational openings and networks.

It is crucial that the entire school community supports this process. Teachers and students should be encouraged to integrate international perspectives into their lessons and school life. The aim is to motivate as many students as possible to take part in exchange programs and to promote their intercultural skills and empathy.

In summary, the donation to the Vision Dindefelo project is a significant step towards educational equity. Not only does it provide financial support, it also promotes international cooperation and intercultural education, which is essential in an increasingly globalized world.