Samuel Seba, although he was born and grew up in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, knows Lincoln well.
He did his Master’s degree at Lincoln as an MFAT Scholar and has come back to complete his PhD on an LU Doctoral Scholarship.
“I had an excellent experience during the two years I spent at Lincoln University for my Master’s of Commerce. I was also touched by the University and the surrounding community who genuinely care for the wellbeing of students and their family. “
Available to both domestic and international students, the Lincoln University Doctoral Scholarship is one of the most prestigious postgraduate scholarships available.
It covers a maximum of three years' stipend with a current value of $24,000 per annum and the amount equivalent to New Zealand students' tuition fee for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
He said the scholarship made “studying the discipline I like possible”.
“It would have been challenging for me, and my family would have suffered much if it was not for the scholarship.”
He is studying in the Faculty of Agribusiness and Commerce, and his work has a focus on his home country.
“I am very concerned about the performance of horticultural supply chains in Ethiopia and other transitional economies. These chains are known for stagnant production growth and poor smallholder producers, resulting in high malnutrition and lack of food security in these countries.
“Interventions by government and other actors need to be devised and implemented to address these challenges.”
He said Lincoln was welcoming, supporting and had capable staff, and a small but vibrant community.
“It is quite enjoyable to build and tap into long-lasting and genuine friendships.”
Its courses are very relevant to the current world and business challenges, he said.
His goal after his study is to contribute to society in New Zealand through “finding a great job relevant to my degree”.
“At the same time, give back to the community in Ethiopia through teaching and consultancy”.
LU Doctoral Scholarship Applications close on 1 October.