Call for Masters of Science Degree-Training Applications

Background: This is the fourth annual request for applications issued by the Innovative Agricultural Research Initiative (iAGRI), an agricultural capacity-building project supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under its Feed-the-Future program. Project Description: iAGRIs main purpose is to strengthen training and research capacities of Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Cooperatives (MAFC) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Zanzibar (MANR). Degree Training Program Description: This announcement is for Masters of Science (MS) Degree scholarship opportunities for study in the United States, Africa or South Asia (India and China). Studies will begin in August or September, 2014. First priority is given to those who currently hold a staff position at SUA, MAFC, MANR or agricultural departments of local governments, and are interested in pursuing the MS degree in agricultural sciences (Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Food Science, Nutrition, Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Education and Extension, Soil Science, Horticulture, Crop Science, Plant Protection, and other disciplines related to agriculture and nutrition). Applicants from the private sector who have demonstrated interest, experience, and leadership in strengthening linkages between Tanzanian research organizations and the private sector may also be considered and are encouraged to apply. The private sector is defined here to include for-profit firms, non-profit firms, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Thirty two Masters Degree trainees are being recruited at this time. Trainees will spend the first year of the MS program at the University taking courses; all will return to Tanzania for a second and final year to complete the MS research.

Trainee Selection Process: Guidelines, Criteria, Submission A. Guideline for Application Candidates are required to submit (a) Letter of Intent endorsed by their employer that specifies the applicants proposed field of study, potential research interests, and how the MS degree would contribute to personal career goals and the socio-economic development of Tanzania. In addition, applicants should specify their preference for graduate study outside Tanzania or within Tanzania, (b) Up-to-date curriculum vitae, (c) Copy of all university transcripts and degree certificates, (d) Letter of recommendation from the applicants head of department or immediate supervisor (for employed applicants). The letter should explicitly recommend the applicant for graduate study in his/her proposed field. Unemployed applicants may instead, obtain a letter of recommendation from a professor who has taught the applicant or from a colleague but not from a family member or friend, (e) GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores if the applicant has already taken these examinations, (f) Copy of passport (if the applicant does not have a passport then other official identity card is acceptable). Women are especially encouraged to apply. It is anticipated that at least 50% of finalists will be women. B. Criteria for Student Selection The Trainee Selection Committee will review applications and select candidates based on the following criteria: 1. First consideration will be given to current staff at SUA, MAFC, and MANR or in the Local Government authorities; 2. Tanzanian nationals residing in Tanzania; 3. Bachelors degree holder with first or upper second class pass; 4. Strong written and spoken English language skills; 5. It is preferred, though not required, that candidates have already taken TOEFL and GRE examinations prior to applying ; and 6. Under 40 years of age. C. Submission Submit application materials in hard copy (not email) by 15th September 2013, to: Innovative Agricultural Research Initiative (iAGRI) Attention: Training Officer P.O. Box 3114, Chuo Kikuu Morogoro, Tanzania D. Contact Information Queries may be made via email (admin@iagri.org) or telephone (23 2600743 or 0763267934).