New DAAD Scholars Bring Global Perspectives to AIT’s Gender and Development Program: Applications Open for August 2025 Intake

05 Sep 2024

In August 2024, the Gender and Development Studies (GDS) Program at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) proudly welcomed nine DAAD scholars from Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Vietnam. These scholars bring diverse experiences and fresh perspectives, enriching the GDS community with their dedication to gender equality and development.

This year’s scholars include Visakha Touch from Cambodia; Nguyen Huu Hung from Vietnam; Samantha Gabrielle Reyes Baril and Jomer Malonosan from the Philippines; and Mya Oo Khin, Kay Thwe Naing, Nweni Naing, Ja Seng Ing Lahpai, and Naw Hsar Hay from Myanmar.

United by their commitment to advancing gender equality, these scholars’ varied backgrounds contribute to vibrant classroom discussions, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Nweni Naing from Myanmar shared her enthusiasm about joining GDS, saying, “Receiving the DAAD scholarship is not just an honor, but a transformative opportunity that will empower me to pursue my academic and professional goals with greater passion and dedication. It symbolizes a bridge to new knowledge, cultural exchange, and future possibilities.”

Similarly, Kay Thwe Naing, also from Myanmar, expressed, “To me, receiving the DAAD scholarship is a beacon of hope and a transformative opportunity to address gender and development issues in my region, particularly in Myanmar, where the longest ongoing civil war has perpetuated oppression and systemic gender-based injustices.”
Samantha Gabrielle Reyes Baril from the Philippines echoed this sentiment, noting, “Receiving the DAAD scholarship to pursue my master’s degree in GDS at AIT has immersed me in a diverse and creative environment, challenging me to think more critically about social and environmental issues.”

The diversity of the scholars not only enriches classroom discussions but also fosters a collaborative learning environment where ideas and experiences are shared, leading to a deeper understanding of gender issues. Over the years, DAAD scholars have pursued PhDs, post-doctoral studies, and careers with international organizations.
The GDS Program at AIT is committed to developing scholars, analysts, and practitioners who can integrate gender approaches into development planning and management. The department emphasizes original research that advances global development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). GDS graduates are equipped to contribute to community-based efforts for gender equality, advancing the rights and inclusion of women and individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Join a Global Network of Changemakers: Apply Now for the 2025 DAAD Scholarship

Applications are now open for the prestigious DAAD Scholarship, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), for the August 2025 intake. This scholarship offers a unique opportunity for students from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines, East Timor, Thailand, and Vietnam to join the Gender and Development Studies (GDS) Program at AIT. The application deadline is December 1, 2024.

For more details on eligibility and application procedures, please visit https://ait.ac.th/financial/daad-scholarship/.