KIT student receives 25,000th NFP scholarship and meets King Willem Alexander
Nuffic presented the 25,000th Netherlands Fellowship Programme (NFP) scholarship to KIT student Devika Rai from Nepal, at the Nl4talents event on 23 November 2016 in the presence of King Willem Alexander of the Netherlands.
25,000th NFP scholarship
Every year several hundred professionals from developing countries come to the Netherlands for a short or longer study period via the NFP. After their studies, they return to their own country where they use their new-found knowledge and skills to strengthen their respective organisations.
The 25,000th NFP scholarship was awarded in the presence of His Majesty King Willem Alexander to Devika Rai, from Nepal, who is currently studying at KIT (Royal Tropical Institute).
Devika Rai is currently pursuing the Master in Public Health/International Course in Health Development. She is a public health expert from Nepal with a focus on sexual and reproductive health.
“I feel honoured to have received the Fellowship from His Majesty King Willem-Alexander; representing my country-Nepal, my University-KIT and the entire Nuffic fellow community around the world. My dream of working for under-privileged girls like myself has moved one step further because of KIT and this Fellowship. Through the international learning experience at KIT, I am preparing myself to give my country what it needs to recover and improve the health situation – a skilled and experienced human resource. I learn from facilitators and co-students from all over the world, and look forward to be an agent of change in my country. Right now, I feel confident and empowered!” – Devika Rai
KIT and the Netherlands Fellowship Programme
The Netherlands Fellowship Programme contributes to capacity building within organisations in 51 countries by providing fellowships for training and education to professionals. The NFP is a fully funded initiative of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, from the budget for development cooperation.
Health professionals from all over the world study Master programmes and short courses at KIT with NFP scholarships. During an intensive year they learn to address health problems in their country with a multi-disciplinary approach. Their time at KIT results in lifelong friendships and professional contacts across the world. Upon return to their home country, they make substantial advancements in improving their respective health and health care systems.
Week of the International Student
Nl4talents takes place during the Week of the International Student. This week focuses on how international students add value to the Netherlands in a variety of ways.
More information on KIT Health and Education programmes: www.kit.nl/training

King Willem Alexander and Freddy Weima in conversation with Devika Rai and other students (courtesy EP-Nuffic)