Twenty-three South Africans have received prestigious Fulbright scholarships to pursue master’s, PhD, and non-degree research and studies in the United States of America. 

Six students will be reading for their master’s degrees in fields ranging from law and engineering to education and gender studies. This year’s Fulbright cohort includes six South Africans who will be pursuing doctoral degrees at, amongst others, Duke University and the University of Rochester. In addition, one South African will be pursuing non-degree studies and eight Fulbrighters will be traveling to the United States to aid in their research work. 

During a reception held for the scholarship recipients at the National Research Foundation (NRF) in Pretoria, Chargé d’Affaires Jessye Lapenn challenged the Fulbrighters to use their time in the United States to take their careers and research contributions to the next level: “Learn as much as you can, meet new people, and share the strength and diversity of South Africa with everyone you meet,” she said.  

For the past several years, the NRF has partnered with the Embassy to increase the number of South African students reading for a PhD through the Fulbright Program. Representing the NRF, Dr Phethiwe Matutu, Group Executive: Strategy, Planning and Partnerships praised the rapidly growing cohort of excellent Fulbright candidates.  

Fulbright alumna Justice Leona Theron spoke about the impact of the program and how her time at Georgetown University shaped her life and career. “I was awarded the Fulbright 30 years ago. When I look back and analyze the event, I would say it was similar to the passing of the baton in a relay. Inspired by the U.S. civil rights movement I studied how constitutionalism could eliminate discrimination based on race, color, religion, and sex.

Upon my return to South Africa, I was empowered and committed to make a difference by putting into practice what I had gained in the U.S. Now the baton is being handed over to you. I hope that you will return and with the experience and skills gained, you will make a positive contribution to building our country in your chosen field. And that you will help build a strong growing economy in a society based on democratic values and where the basic needs and rights of every citizen are met and realized.” At age 32, Judge Theron was the first black female judge to be appointed in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. 

The Fulbright Program is the U.S. Government’s flagship international education exchange program, and is designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries.  The Fulbright Program attracts the brightest talent in the world, who share a dedication to return home and make a difference through collaboration and innovation.  The Fulbright Program operates in over 160 countries worldwide and, since 1953, more than 2100 South African students and scholars have pursued studies and research in the United States.