by Applications open yearly for for the Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical Programme for African Students. This year 2025 scholarship targets African students aged 18–30, requiring a Grade 12 pass with at least 50% in Physical Science, Biology, Mathematics, and English, ensuring accessibility for those who haven’t attended higher education or received prior bursaries.
About Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical Programme:
Gauteng Department of Health invites all prospective students from disadvantaged communities who are interested in studying Medicine in Cuba for the year 2025 intake.
The Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical Programme, is a South African initiative started in 1997 to address the shortage of doctors by training students from disadvantaged communities in Cuba, with over 3,000 doctors trained by 2023 per the Nelson Mandela Foundation archives.
The 2025 scholarship targets South African students aged 18–30 from Gauteng, requiring a Grade 12 pass with at least 50% in Physical Science, Biology, Mathematics, and English, ensuring accessibility for those who haven’t attended higher education or received prior bursaries.
This programme reflects a historic collaboration between South Africa and Cuba, rooted in Mandela and Castro’s shared vision for social justice, providing fully funded medical education.
Which Fields of Study?
Medicine
Type:
Scholarship
Who can Apply for Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical Programme?
Candidates must have a university entrance Grade 12 pass, with minimum level 4 pass marks (50%), in the following subjects:
- Physical Science
- Biology/Life Sciences
- Mathematics
- English
Note: APPLICANT MUST HAVE MATRICULATED AND NOT HAVE BEEN REGISTERED WITH ANY HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUION (PUBLIC/PRIVATE) AND/OR RECEIVED ANY FORM OF BURSARY FUNDING
How Are Applicants Selected?
- Applicant must be South African citizens and permanently residing in Gauteng.
- Must have matriculated in Gauteng.
- Must be between 18 – 30 years of age by the closing date of the application.
Which Countries are Eligible?
South Africa
How Many Awards?
Not specified
How to Apply for Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical Programme:
The application form should be accompanied by the following:
- Copy of Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of Birth Certificate
- Certified copy of Identification document (applicant and parents/guardians)
- Certified copy of National Senior Certificate and transcript
- Copy of Proof of income for both parents or guardians (sworn affidavits for those without proof of income)
- Copy of Proof of residence validated by the Ward Councillor and/or Municipality Bill.
For more Enquiries and to Register, visit official webpage.
