The IKEN  Scholarship

What is it?
The Inge Klasen Educational Network (IKEN) is a foundation set up in memory of Inge Klasen (11.10.1920 – 1.5.2005). It sponsors one girl per semester to participate at a diploma course of choice at the Midea College.

Who was Inge Klasen?
Inge Klasen was born in 1920 in Germany. She was the eldest of two daughters and already as a child was very active in sports, at school and in the community. Learning meant a lot to her and her teachers wanted her to go on to higher education. She always said: “I would sell my last shirt to make it possible for my children to study.”

While Inge’s life was characterised by periods of great happiness, she also had to endure deep suffering.

Many wondered how she did it and maybe her own words written to her children shortly before her death are the best explanation:

“Again and again I have felt with great humility and gratefulness how in great happiness and deep suffering God gave me the opportunity to grasp life and to bear its challenges. I believe the Lord has had good intentions for me even if I was not always able to understand His plans.”

Who can apply?
Any girl eligible to participate at the courses of Midea College can apply for the fellowship. Preference will be given to girls incorporating some of the values and strengths of Inge Klasen. This means we are looking for girls, who are very dedicated to education even though they come from backgrounds, where further study for girls cannot be/ is not sufficiently encouraged. The girls are dedicated to others and grasp life and life’s challenges with both hands. Last but not least they can remain grateful and focussed on their aims even in the face of adversity.

What are the benefits to selected IKEN students?
The student selected each semester receives full fees paid for a course of choice at the Midea college. She will furthermore receive 100€ book/pocket money for equipment, clothes, books etc. needed during the course. The fellows are encouraged to form a lasting network with each other, staying in touch and supporting each other even after the end of the course. If travelling/studying in Europe former fellows will be welcome at the house of the Klasen/Kortenoeven family to be received like family members. There will be a small amount of money available for hardship funds or micro-credits that can be applied for separately. The names of the fellows will be displayed on a board in the college.

How to apply?
In order to apply send your last school report and CV to Midea college. Please explain on not more than one A4 (12pt) why you think you are suitable to receive the fellowship. Please enclose a reference. The director of the college will make a pre-selection and send up to three most suited applications to the foundation who make the final decision on which girl to sponsor.