The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030: Empowering Global Change Through Education
The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030: Empowering Global Change Through Education: The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030: Empowering Global Change Through Education, In an era where global collaboration is paramount, the Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (BCDI 2030) stands as a testament to Canada’s commitment to fostering international development through education. This ambitious eight-year program, funded by Global Affairs Canada, aims to provide high-quality, inclusive education and training opportunities to individuals from 26 eligible countries. By focusing on priority areas aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), BCDI 2030 seeks to address inequality and promote socio-economic development worldwide.Government of Canada+7bcdi2030.ca+7EduCanada+7
Program Overview
Launched in 2022, BCDI 2030 is designed to strengthen social and economic development by enhancing access to higher education and skills training. The program is tailored to meet the specific needs of partner countries, emphasizing areas critical to sustainable development. With a substantial investment of $80 million from Global Affairs Canada, BCDI 2030 is set to directly benefit over 7,000 scholars, with a commitment that at least 51% of these beneficiaries will be women. Universities Canada+5portal.scholarshippartners.ca+5Government of Canada+5bcdi2030.ca+1EduCanada+1Colleges and Institutes Canada | Home+2bcdi2030.ca+2EduCanada+2
Objectives and Priorities
The overarching goal of BCDI 2030 is to reduce inequalities by providing inclusive and equitable access to education and training. The program focuses on several key thematic areas:Universities Canada+4bcdi2030.ca+4EduCanada+4
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Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): Promoting advancements in these fields to drive innovation and technological development.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI): Enhancing capabilities in AI to foster digital transformation and smart solutions.
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Green and Blue Economy: Supporting sustainable economic practices that benefit both land and marine environments.
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Climate Action: Educating individuals to understand and combat climate change effectively.
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Health Sciences: Improving healthcare systems through education and research in medical sciences.
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Governance and Administration: Strengthening institutional capacities for better governance and public administration. portal.scholarshippartners.ca+2Universities Canada+2Colleges and Institutes Canada | Home+2
Program Streams
BCDI 2030 operates through two main streams, each designed to drive change through partnerships in higher education:Universities Canada+6bcdi2030.ca+6bcdi2030.ca+6
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Stream 1: Scholarships for Studies in Canada
This stream provides scholarships for individuals from partner countries to pursue studies in Canada. Approximately 600 scholars will receive study and training opportunities, with a focus on ensuring that at least 51% of them are women. The scholars will acquire skills, knowledge, and experience that will enable them to contribute effectively to the development of their home countries upon their return.
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Stream 2: Institutional Partnerships
This stream focuses on delivering customized training opportunities that meet the unique needs of partner countries. It involves establishing partnerships between Canadian higher education institutions and institutions in the eligible countries to develop and implement training programs tailored to local contexts.
Eligibility and Application Process
Eligibility for BCDI 2030 is established through project partnerships between Canadian higher education institutions (HEIs) and HEIs from the 26 eligible countries. Individuals cannot apply directly to the program; instead, they must apply through the international partners involved in these projects. The Canadian HEIs and their partners will launch calls for applications for scholarships in Canada and select recipients based on criteria aligned with the program’s terms and the admission requirements of the study programs. EduCanada+1Colleges and Institutes Canada | Home+1
Impact and Beneficiaries
BCDI 2030 aims to have a profound impact on the participating countries by:
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Directly Benefiting Scholars: Over 7,000 individuals, with a focus on gender parity, will receive education and training that enhances their employability and leadership potential.bcdi2030.ca+2bcdi2030.ca+2Colleges and Institutes Canada | Home+2
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Strengthening Institutions: Through partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, educational institutions in partner countries will experience enhanced capabilities and resources.
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Promoting Gender Equality: By ensuring that at least 51% of the beneficiaries are women, the program actively contributes to reducing gender disparities in education and employment.EduCanada
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Addressing Regional Needs: With 90% of the funding directed to Sub-Saharan African countries, BCDI 2030 is strategically positioned to address the unique challenges and opportunities within this region. Colleges and Institutes Canada | Home+2bcdi2030.ca+2bcdi2030.ca+2
Partnerships and Collaborations
The success of BCDI 2030 hinges on robust partnerships and collaborations. The program is jointly administered by Colleges and Institutes Canada and Universities Canada, in partnership with organizations such as the West African Economic and Monetary Union, the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, and the Association of African Universities. These collaborations ensure that the program is responsive to the labor market and development needs of partner countries, leveraging Canadian expertise to build a brighter future globally. Dalhousie University+5bcdi2030.ca+5bcdi2030.ca+5Colleges and Institutes Canada | Home+5bcdi2030.ca+5bcdi2030.ca+5
Recent Developments
As of March 26, 2025, Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture announced that it will welcome five Kenyan students from Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) into its Small Business Management (B. Tech) program, thanks to funding from the BCDI 2030 program. This initiative aims to develop skills and technical capacity in agri-processing, contributing to increased productivity and innovative responses to food security challenges in Kenya. Dalhousie University
Conclusion
The Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030: Empowering Global Change Through Education, the Canadian International Development Scholarships 2030 (IDES 2030) initiative stands as a powerful testament to Canada’s enduring commitment to fostering global development through education. By targeting students from developing countries—particularly those from Sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and Asia—this scholarship program not only provides access to world-class education but also empowers individuals to become catalysts of change in their home countries. It goes beyond conventional academic funding by integrating practical skills training, leadership development, and post-graduation support to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.
What truly sets IDES 2030 apart is its focus on inclusive and equitable growth. With special emphasis on gender equality, environmental sustainability, and the inclusion of marginalized groups, the program aligns with broader international goals such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This integrated approach ensures that the scholarship is not just an academic opportunity but a holistic development initiative.
Moreover, the partnerships formed through IDES 2030 between Canadian institutions and those in developing countries create channels for long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange. These relationships enhance both academic communities and help in addressing global challenges collectively.
In essence, IDES 2030 is not just an investment in individual scholars—it is an investment in communities, nations, and the global future. For aspiring leaders and change-makers from developing nations, this scholarship represents a unique opportunity to gain the tools, education, and networks necessary to shape a better world. Canada, through this initiative, continues to lead by example—championing education as a cornerstone for sustainable international development.