This programme, at the initiative of DIRCO, offers ten scholarships per annum over a period of three years and will be funded by the Swedish Institute. This is in recognition of the centrality of education and skills development for the economic prosperity of both countries. The first round of successful applicants commenced their studies in August 2014, and are currently in Sweden pursuing their fields of interest.

The scholarship programme was agreed to at the Eighth Session of the South Africa – Sweden Bi-National Commission (BNC), which took place on 11 October 2013 in Pretoria. The Commission is co-chaired by South Africa’s Deputy President and Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister and takes place on a biennial basis.

Bilateral relations between South Africa and Sweden are excellent and have a strong historical basis with Sweden supporting South Africa’s struggle for Freedom and Democracy. Present day relations cover a wide variety of areas.

Available: http://www.dfa.gov.za/docs/2015/swed0528.htm