The Netherlands is globally recognized for its innovation-driven education system, world-class universities, and commitment to sustainable development. To strengthen international collaboration and support talented professionals worldwide, the Dutch government established the Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) — one of the most prestigious scholarship programs for international learners.
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and managed by Nuffic (the Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in Higher Education), the OKP aims to contribute to sustainable and inclusive development by enhancing the knowledge and skills of individuals and organizations. Through this initiative, professionals from developing countries gain access to advanced education and training in the Netherlands, equipping them to drive change in their home countries.
This article provides an in-depth overview of the Netherlands Orange Knowledge Program 2025, including its objectives, benefits, eligible courses, application requirements, and how it serves as a powerful instrument for global growth and collaboration.
1. Overview of the Orange Knowledge Program
The Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) replaced the former Netherlands Fellowship Program (NFP) in 2017. It was designed to build the capacity of individuals and institutions through higher education and short professional training in the Netherlands.
Unlike many traditional scholarships that focus solely on individuals, OKP emphasizes both personal development and institutional strengthening. The idea is that knowledge gained by scholars will not only benefit them personally but also contribute to the progress of their organizations, communities, and nations.
The program’s ultimate goal is to promote the sustainable and inclusive development of societies by addressing key global challenges, including poverty reduction, food security, water management, climate action, gender equality, and good governance.
2. Objectives of the Orange Knowledge Program
The OKP is built upon a vision of creating a global community of professionals who can make tangible contributions to their countries’ development. Its core objectives include:
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Enhancing individual and institutional capacity: To empower professionals and organizations to develop practical solutions for local and global challenges.
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Promoting equality and inclusivity: To ensure participation from underrepresented groups, especially women and marginalized communities.
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Encouraging global cooperation: To strengthen partnerships between Dutch institutions and organizations in developing countries.
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Supporting sustainable development goals (SDGs): To align educational and professional growth with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
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Fostering innovation and leadership: To build future leaders who can introduce innovative practices in governance, business, and community development.
By linking education to real-world challenges, the OKP ensures that its graduates are not just degree holders but active contributors to global progress.
3. Levels and Types of Courses Covered
The Orange Knowledge Program supports a wide range of academic and professional learning opportunities in the Netherlands.
The program offers three main study formats:
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Short Courses:
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Duration: 2 weeks to 12 months.
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Focus: Practical, skill-based training designed for working professionals who seek to update or deepen their expertise.
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Example fields: Project management, leadership, gender inclusion, water resource management, food security, and climate adaptation.
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Master’s Degree Programs:
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Duration: 12 to 24 months.
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Focus: Academic advancement in specialized fields, allowing participants to gain theoretical and research-based knowledge to apply in professional settings.
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Offered in English by top Dutch universities.
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Tailor-Made Training (TMT):
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Focus: Customized group training designed for specific institutions in developing countries.
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Aim: To address the collective training needs of organizations to build institutional capacity.
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This multi-level structure allows the program to cater to both individual and institutional development goals.
4. Priority Themes and Areas of Study
The Netherlands selects study areas based on the developmental priorities of partner countries. The program focuses on themes that align with global and national priorities, particularly those connected to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Some of the key fields supported by the OKP include:
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Agriculture and Food Security
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Water Management and Sanitation
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Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability
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Renewable Energy and Technology
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Public Health and Health Systems
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Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)
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Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
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Governance, Law, and Human Rights
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Education and Vocational Training
Each course or program is designed to equip participants with the technical knowledge, leadership skills, and innovative thinking necessary to address these complex challenges effectively.
5. Financial Coverage and Benefits
The Orange Knowledge Program is a fully funded scholarship, offering comprehensive support that covers academic, professional, and personal expenses.
The benefits include:
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Full Tuition Fees: All course-related costs are covered for the duration of the program.
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Living Allowance: A monthly stipend to cover accommodation, food, and daily expenses during the stay in the Netherlands.
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Travel Expenses: Round-trip airfare between the scholar’s home country and the Netherlands.
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Insurance Coverage: Health and liability insurance throughout the scholarship period.
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Visa and Residence Permit Costs: Fully covered by the program.
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Study Materials and Excursions: Support for books, course supplies, and field visits.
These benefits ensure that participants can focus fully on their academic and professional development without financial concerns.
6. Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Orange Knowledge Program, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements set by Nuffic and the Dutch institutions offering the courses.
General Requirements:
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The applicant must be a citizen and resident of an eligible OKP country (mostly developing countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East).
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Must be employed by an organization such as a government ministry, university, NGO, or private company that contributes to local development.
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Must have at least two years of relevant work experience in a field related to the chosen program.
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Must possess academic qualifications required for admission to the specific master’s or short course.
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Must demonstrate English proficiency, usually through IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent proof.
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Must commit to returning to their home country after completion to apply the acquired knowledge.
Additional Requirements:
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Preference is given to applicants who promote gender equality and inclusivity.
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Priority may also be given to applicants whose employers show commitment to implementing the training results institutionally.
These criteria ensure that scholarship recipients are professionals who can create lasting impact in their societies.
7. Application Process for the OKP 2025
The application process for the Orange Knowledge Program is transparent and straightforward but highly competitive. Here are the main steps to apply:
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Course and Institution
Applicants should first identify a master’s or short course offered by a Dutch institution participating in the OKP. The list of eligible programs is available on the universities’ official websites and Nuffic’s database.
Step 2: Apply to the Institution
Apply for admission to the chosen course or program. During this process, indicate your interest in being considered for the Orange Knowledge Program.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Typical documents include:
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A valid passport
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Proof of employment and employer’s statement
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Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Motivation letter
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Copies of academic transcripts and degrees
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Proof of English proficiency
Step 4: Nomination and Submission
Once the institution reviews the application and nominates the candidate, the complete scholarship application is submitted through the Delta online system managed by Nuffic.
Step 5: Selection and Notification
Applications are reviewed based on academic merit, relevance to the applicant’s professional background, and alignment with OKP priorities. Selected candidates receive official notification and further instructions from Nuffic and their host institutions.
8. Selection Criteria
The selection process for OKP scholarships is based on several key principles:
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Relevance of the course to the applicant’s job and country’s development priorities.
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Motivation and commitment to using the acquired knowledge after returning home.
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Employer’s support and endorsement for implementing new skills at the institutional level.
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Academic and professional excellence.
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Contribution to gender balance and inclusivity.
Candidates who demonstrate clear leadership potential and a strong vision for applying their education in real-world contexts are most likely to succeed.
9. Impact of the Orange Knowledge Program
The OKP has had a profound global impact since its inception. Thousands of professionals from more than 50 eligible countries have benefited from the program, advancing their careers while transforming their institutions.
Some of the key outcomes include:
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Enhanced institutional capacity in developing countries.
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Improved technical expertise in key sectors such as agriculture, water management, and governance.
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Stronger international partnerships between Dutch institutions and global organizations.
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Empowerment of women and promotion of gender equality in leadership roles.
By equipping participants with world-class education and practical tools, the program has become a catalyst for social, economic, and environmental progress.
10. Life and Learning Experience in the Netherlands
Studying in the Netherlands under the OKP provides a unique and enriching experience. The country’s education system emphasizes interactive learning, critical thinking, and innovation. Students are encouraged to apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges through research projects, group work, and practical assignments.
The Netherlands is known for its inclusive and multicultural environment, where students from diverse backgrounds collaborate and exchange ideas. Outside the classroom, scholars enjoy a high standard of living, efficient public transport, and a rich cultural heritage.
OKP scholars also benefit from networking opportunities, seminars, and mentorship programs, which strengthen their professional growth and global connections.
11. Conclusion
The Netherlands Orange Knowledge Program (OKP) 2025 represents one of the most comprehensive and impactful scholarship initiatives in the world. By combining academic excellence with a strong focus on sustainable development, the program empowers professionals to become agents of positive change in their communities.
Through fully funded education and training opportunities, OKP bridges the gap between knowledge and action, helping to build a global network of skilled professionals committed to solving the world’s most pressing challenges.