Germany isn’t just steel-and-autobahn stereotypes. For many African students, it’s become a place to overcome obstacles, discover passions, and build futures. These five stories show the broad spectrum of what’s possible academically, personally, and entrepreneurially, as well as what it really takes to thrive.
Fredrick Onyango (Kenya) – PhD & Drone Photographer
As of December 2024, Fredrick Onyango shares his journey in “From Kenya to Germany: My Journey as a Drone Photographer and PhD Student”, detailing his pursuit of a PhD in livestock systems in Germany while also cultivating a passion for drone photography. He documents the contrast between the calm, ordered environment in Germany vs. the vibrancy back home, how quiet commuting and late evenings become part of the daily rhythm, and how he’s using photography to explore identity, adaptation, and belonging.
What’s inspiring:
- Blending art with science using photography to process cultural transitions.
- Overcoming isolation via creative expression.
- Sustaining personal identity amid cultural changes.
Tochukwu ThankGod Okafor (Nigeria) – DAAD Scholarship on First Try
Announced in Jan 2025, Tochukwu, a Nigerian with a first degree in Forestry & Wildlife, applied for the DAAD scholarship and succeeded on his first attempt. Despite procrastination and waiting, he seized the opportunity when encouraged.
What’s inspiring:
- It’s never too late to act.
- Persistence despite delays and doubt can pay off.
- The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) remains a viable route for African students whose first applications can succeed.
Mukundi Mukundamago (South Africa) – DAAD Summer School & Cultural Immersion
From 2024/early 2025, Mukundi participated in a DAAD Summer School under the “In-Region” scholarship. Coming from Limpopo, South Africa, the experience involved academic modules in Germany (like at Goethe University), lectures, excursions, learning German context, and exploring cultural, historical, and social sites in cities like Frankfurt.
What’s inspiring:
- Short programs (like summer schools) can offer strong exposure and networking even before a full degree.
- Cultural blending excursions, history, and local art enhance learning.
- It builds confidence and vision for students from smaller towns.
Adnane: From Morocco to Potsdam, Finding Voice in Pan-African Studies
April 2025—Adnane, originally from Morocco, is Student of the Month at Universität Potsdam. He studies topics like cultural narratives and identity. One class that excited him was Pan-African Cartography, where he explored how colonial history shapes maps, identity, and a sense of home. His coursework allows him to balance his African heritage with academic rigor and fresh perspectives.
What’s inspiring:
- Studying something deeply tied to personal identity adds meaning to the student experience.
- Germany’s universities are offering more culturally reflective courses.
- It’s not just technical degrees. But also Africa-related humanities, culture, and identity studies are alive and growing.
Kenyan Nursing Students & Cross-Border Cooperation
February 2025 — Fourteen Kenyan nursing students began their studies in Germany and started working at a hospital in Bad Mergentheim as part of a program between Koblenz University of Applied Sciences and Mount Kenya University. They split time between academic study and clinical practice as part of the training. Some of them mention major challenges: language, climate, and adaptation, but also strong support on the ground.
What’s inspiring:
- Practical degrees with work elements help bridge theory and real jobs.
- Cross-border partnerships are expanding access.
- Even with hardships (weather or language), they say the experience is rewarding and growth-oriented.
Key Takeaways from Their Stories
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Cultural adaptation | Learning German or a local dialect helps, even if the program is in English. |
| Persistence & timing | Many got in despite delays, rejections, or procrastination—what matters is doing it anyway. |
| Identity & meaning | Courses that connect with personal history or values (like culture, colonial history, and environment) enrich the experience. |
| Support networks | Support networks such as DAAD, local student groups, academic supervisors, and hospital placements make a significant difference. |
| Practical skills | Combining work/practice with study enhances employability and confidence. |
What You Should Know If You Want to Be the Next Story
- Look for scholarships early: DAAD and local (in-Germany) grants make a big difference.
- Develop your German gradually, as even a B1/B2 degree can provide opportunities for work, internships, and cultural integration.
- Explore short programs & summer schools: they’re lower-risk but high impact.
- Network: through student bodies (e.g., NiSIG for Nigerians in Germany), mentors, and project collaborations.
- Reflect on what matters: don’t just chase prestige; pursue meaning, and build something aligned with who you are.
Ready to start your story?
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