2nd Open Call for a Master's Project: Boosting Research and Development in Cape Verde

Cape Verde is taking a significant step towards strengthening its research and development capacity with the launch of the 2nd Open Call for the MESTRADO Project. This ambitious initiative aims to support talented students in pursuing master's studies in strategic areas for the country's development. This call represents a unique opportunity for young researchers to contribute to advancing knowledge and solving local challenges.

The Master's Project: An Overview

The MESTRADO Project is a government-funded initiative with the aim of increasing the number of qualified professionals with master's degrees in areas considered a priority for Cape Verde's socio-economic development. The project offers scholarships, financial support for research and opportunities for collaboration with national and international higher education institutions.

Main Project Objectives

• Increase the number of qualified masters in strategic areas.
• Strengthen Cape Verde's research and development capacity.
• Promoting collaboration between universities, companies and the government.
• Contribute to the country's sustainable socio-economic development.

2nd Call Priority Areas

The 2nd Open Call for the Master's Project focuses on areas considered crucial for Cape Verde's future. These areas were identified on the basis of labour market needs, environmental challenges and the country's development priorities.

Examples of Priority Areas

• Renewable Energies: Given Cape Verde's dependence on fossil fuels, research into renewable energies is fundamental to guaranteeing energy security and reducing carbon emissions.
• Sustainable tourism: Tourism is a pillar of the Cape Verdean economy, but it is crucial that it is developed in a sustainable way, minimising the environmental impact and maximising the benefits for local communities.
• Information and Communication Technologies (ICT): The digitalisation of Cape Verde's economy and society requires qualified ICT professionals capable of developing innovative solutions to local challenges.
• Agriculture and Food Security: Ensuring food security is a constant challenge in Cape Verde, and research into sustainable and drought-resistant agricultural techniques is essential.
• Public Health: Improving public health requires qualified professionals in areas such as epidemiology, environmental health and health services management.

Benefits of Participating in the Master's Project

Participating in the Master's Project offers a number of significant benefits for the selected students.

Advantages for Candidates

• Full Scholarship: The project covers tuition fees, board and lodging costs and other study-related expenses.
• Research Support: Students receive financial support to carry out their master's research, including the purchase of materials, participation in conferences and the publication of scientific articles.
• Academic Mentoring: Students are accompanied by experienced mentors who guide them throughout their studies and research.
• Networking opportunities: The project provides networking opportunities with other students, researchers and professionals from different fields.
• Improved career prospects: Obtaining a master's degree significantly increases students' career prospects, opening doors to more qualified and well-paid jobs.

Successful Case Studies

The first call of the MESTRADO Project has already produced promising results. Several students have successfully completed their master's degrees and are now contributing to Cape Verde's development.

Examples of Impact

• A student who researched the potential of solar energy in Santo Antão has developed a business model for installing solar panels in rural communities, contributing to the electrification of isolated areas.
• A student who studied the impact of tourism on the marine biodiversity of the island of Sal has proposed measures to protect coral reefs and other threatened marine species.
• A student who developed a real-time water quality monitoring system for the city of Praia has helped to improve the management of water resources and prevent contamination.

How to Apply for the 2nd Call

The application process for the 2nd Open Call for the Master's Project is relatively simple, but requires attention to detail and fulfilment of the established requirements.

Application steps

• Consult the Public Notice: The 2nd Open Call notice contains all the relevant information about the project, including eligibility requirements, priority areas, selection criteria and the application process.
• Gather the necessary documentation: Applicants must gather the necessary documentation, including their degree, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, letter of motivation and letters of recommendation.
• Submit your application online: The application must be submitted online via the electronic platform provided by the project.
• Wait for the results: The selection results will be published on the project website and successful candidates will be contacted by email.

Conclusion

The 2nd Open Call for the MESTRADO Project represents an unmissable opportunity for young Cape Verdean talents who wish to pursue master's studies in strategic areas for the country's development. By investing in the training of qualified professionals, Cape Verde is building a more prosperous and sustainable future. We encourage all interested parties to consult the call for applications and submit their applications.

Apply now for the Master's Project! Find out more and sign up!

Application deadline: 12 June 2025.