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Seven German universities participate in this program each year, including the University of Erfurt (Willy Brandt School of Public Policy) with its English-language Master of Policy program.

The scholarship programs are highly sought after, and the application process is highly competitive: 696 applications were received by the DAAD from all over the world for the University of Erfurt alone, and nine scholarships were awarded. Houssem Chammam, an applicant from Tunisia was one of the selected candidates. We interviewed him:

1. Congratulations on your scholarship. Can you briefly introduce yourself to our public?

My name is Houssem Chammam, a passionate young scholar pursuing a Master of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt, Germany through the DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme. After studying Political Science at Carleton College, Minnesota, I dedicated the past two years to researching fiscal justice and public spending issues in Tunisia and advocating for alternatives. Today, I aspire to leverage my experiences from the American and German schools of public policy in order to bring forward human-centric and fact-based policymaking to my country and region.

2. Why do you think the DAAD selection committee has chosen you?

I strongly believe that the DAAD selection committee has chosen me for several compelling reasons. Firstly, my unwavering passion for my field of studies, coupled with my genuine dedication, shines through in my academic pursuits and research endeavours. This commitment is evident in my decision to return to my country during a critical political crisis, where I actively engaged in shaping the discourse and working towards positive change.
My experience of being on the ground during this challenging time not only deepened my understanding of the complexities surrounding policy-making but also demonstrated my willingness to take practical action to address pressing issues. This hands-on involvement showcased my determination to make a meaningful impact and my ability to navigate challenging environments.
By selecting me, I believe the DAAD selection committee recognized the potential in my unique blend of academic knowledge, practical experience, and genuine passion. They understood that my dedication to my field extends beyond the classroom and that I possess the drive and resilience to contribute significantly to the academic community and my country. I am honoured to have been chosen by the committee, and I am excited to continue my journey in public policy with their support.

3. What motivated you to apply for this scholarship and what opportunities does it open up for you?

I chose Germany, and specifically the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, because I strongly believe in the value of an international education. I am eager to explore diverse approaches to public policy issues and gain a global perspective that can enrich my understanding of the complex challenges of our time. Furthermore, my time working in Tunisian civil society exposed me to the exceptional quality and depth of knowledge generated by German researchers in my field. I had the privilege of meeting and collaborating with these experts, which left a lasting impression on me.
This scholarship opens up incredible opportunities for me to advance my career and help me deepen my impact. It provides access to the vibrant network of academic and non-profit institutions in Germany. The program also offers a platform to collaborate and further engage with talented researchers and professionals in the field of public policy, enabling me to enhance my skills and contribute to cutting-edge research.

4. Were there any organisational/formal sticking points for you when applying for the scholarship?

The application process for the scholarship was generally simple and straightforward. However, throughout the selection process, which involved arranging various paperwork, documents, and applying for the Visa, I faced some challenges. Balancing the administrative work alongside my full-time job as a researcher proved to be demanding, making it difficult to find the necessary time for organizing and submitting the required paperwork. Despite these hurdles, I managed to overcome them and successfully navigate through the process. Overall, while there were some struggles, however, I found the DAAD office in Tunisia and the program coordinator in the DAAD headquarters to be very helpful.