The University of Cape Town (UCT) has made a landmark stride in global academic cooperation by officially unveiling a collaborative dual degree programme with France's esteemed Sciences Po. This innovative initiative allows students to earn dual Master’s degrees from both institutions, marking a historic moment in higher education and Sciences Po's inaugural degree offering in Africa.

Long-standing partnership

The formalised partnership stems from nearly three decades of collaborative engagement, dating back to 1997 when the first memorandum of understanding was signed between these two academically distinguished institutions. The agreement was sealed during a visit by UCT's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mosa Moshabela, to Sciences Po on 21 March 2025, coinciding with Human Rights Day in South Africa—a symbolic occasion reflecting the values of global cooperation and shared aspirations for a brighter future.

Programme details

Dual Master’s students will engage in two distinct yet complementary programmes: Governance and International Relations, facilitated through a collaboration between the Paris School of International Affairs and UCT's Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance; and Urban Studies, in conjunction with Sciences Po's Urban School and UCT's African Centre for Cities. Over two years, students will divide their studies, spending the first year at UCT before embarking on their second year at Sciences Po in France, ultimately returning to UCT to complete their final semester.

Professor Moshabela lauded the extensive collaborative efforts that have brought the programme to fruition. "It has been a long journey, with teams working since 2023. I commend everyone involved, including deans, administrative staff, and various support offices," he stated. He acknowledged the dedication exerted by both UCT and Sciences Po teams through numerous interactions—visiting each other’s campuses to tackle the technical complexities that guide the effective design of dual degrees.

Future prospects

The joint admissions process for this prestigious programme is set to launch in September 2025, with the first cohort expected to commence their studies in February 2027. The universities aim to enrol 20 students each year, targeting a diverse demographic from various socio-cultural and geographical backgrounds. Notably, three full scholarships will be available through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, supporting committed students in their pursuit of academic excellence.

This collaborative venture has been further bolstered by the recent awarding of a €120,000 grant from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflecting a commitment to enhancing academic collaboration between France and Africa.

As a pioneering entity on the continent, UCT continues to solidify its international presence and commitment to innovative educational partnerships that aim for lasting impacts in higher education across Africa and beyond. South African Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, congratulated both universities on their exceptional partnership, emphasising its significance on such an important day for South Africa.

sciencespo

UCT and Sciences Po launch pioneering dual degree programme