2022/2023 Fellow | AWO Kreisverband Berlin-Mitte e.V. | Berlin
Urgent Plea for the Continuation of the German Chancellor Fellowship
Dear President Robert Schlögl, General Secretary Enno Aufderheide, and esteemed members of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation,
I write this letter with profound gratitude for the transformative experiences bestowed upon me during the German Chancellor Fellowship and a fervent plea to reconsider the decision to discontinue this invaluable program.
As a South African participant in the inaugural cohort, the fellowship went beyond being a mere academic opportunity; it became a life-altering experience that broadened my horizons, enriched my skills, and forged lasting connections. The decision to suspend this program is disheartening, considering its far-reaching impact on fostering global collaboration and understanding.
One of the pivotal highlights of my fellowship year was the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation-funded self-organized initiative, the “Social Justice Indaba”. This undertaking exemplified the fellowship’s commitment to social responsibility and provided a platform for meaningful discourse on crucial global issues. The Indaba not only enriched my understanding but also served as a beacon of the fellowship’s ethos in action.
Furthermore, the German Study Tour’s excursion to Bremerhaven stands out as a profound moment of enlightenment. The visit to the German Emigration Center added historical depth to my research on migration governance, drawing poignant parallels between historical European migration and the contemporary challenges faced by Africans. This experience not only deepened my understanding but also validated the importance of my chosen area of research.
My research project on migration governance, coupled with a week-long workshop on queer refugees in Poland and various activities of the German Study Tour, exemplified the fellowship’s immersive and enabling approach. Living in Berlin, navigating diverse cultural landscapes, and engaging with experts in the field became emblematic of the multifaceted cultural exchange that defined my time in Germany.
Moreover, my research experience in Germany provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the workings of the European Union. This insight is paramount for my future aspirations as I position myself as an expert on the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, aiming to facilitate the unification of the African continent as a single market.
I implore you to reconsider this decision, recognizing the enduring value of the German Chancellor Fellowship. The benefits extend beyond individual participants, contributing to a more interconnected and understanding world. As an alumnus, I stand testament to the profound influence of this fellowship, and I believe its continuation is crucial for the enrichment of future generations and the strengthening of global ties.
Thank you for considering my heartfelt plea. I remain hopeful that, together, we can find a way to reinstate the German Chancellor Fellowship and continue fostering a legacy of international collaboration and understanding.
Sincerely,
Mpumelelo Phungula
German Chancellor Fellow 2022-2023 Cohort
