Support the KU Leuven Marc Vervenne Fund
Investing in Higher Education and Research in the South 1.
Objective
The Marc Vervenne Fund has been established by the KU Leuven to support young talented researchers in the poorest countries in Africa to complete development relevant doctoral research for the benefit of the local societies. During his successive positions on the board and the executive of the University of Leuven, Prof. Marc Vervenne, Honorary Rector, has been particularly involved in University Development Cooperation. Today, he continues to be engaged in this part of the mission of KU Leuven and the University Hospitals.
2.
Challenges
Qualitative higher education and research are crucial for the development of countries in the South. A deep insight in the complexity of development problems can lead to effective solutions that affect the most vital needs in these countries. Education based on solid and relevant research is a driving force for innovation and development. However, gifted young reseachers often lack the opportunities to acquire scientific skills, as well as to specialise in their field of research. There are very little PhD scholarships to conduct relevant research in their home
countries. Furthermore, many regions face a disastrous ‘brain drain’ of talented researchers, who can only indirectly support their country from abroad. Professor Marc Vervenne, Honorary Rector of KU Leuven: “By supporting one successful PhD research, a whole network of co-researchers and students, as well as the local population as a whole, benefit from the results of the development relevant research. These young scholars are the leaders of tomorrow.”