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Odira Ofordueme, Emmanuel Ifada, and Suad Salihs

About the Program

132 Mastercard Foundation Scholars
20+ Sub-Saharan African countries
9 Dobson Cup Winners

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program stands as the largest scholarship and leadership initiative of its kind in Africa. Operating through a Pan-African and global network of universities and non-governmental organizations, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program strives to strengthen the higher education ecosystem by encouraging inclusion, accessibility, innovation in teaching and learning, as well as research and collaboration across critical sectors and stakeholders. 

±«ÓãÖ±²¥ has partnered with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program since 2013, supporting and empowering 132 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from over 20 Sub-Saharan African countries. 2024 marks the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program's second phase at ±«ÓãÖ±²¥, when we will continue to welcome gifted leaders and changemakers aspiring to improve and transform nutrition, public health, public policy, and sustainable agriculture across Africa.


The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship that covers tuition and basic living expenses. It is an immersive experience meticulously designed to empower Mastercard Foundation Scholars on their journey. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ education is complemented with tailored programming that includes mentorship, leadership training, tutoring, experiential learning opportunities, professional development, and career support. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to equip the Mastercard Foundation Scholars with the tools and guidance they need to flourish academically.  It engages them as active members of the ±«ÓãÖ±²¥ ecosystem and propels them professionally as leaders geared for impact. 

The scholarship Includes:

  • Pre-arrival and immigration support 
  • Full international student tuition  
  • On-campus housing  
  • Personal monthly stipend (food, personal expenses, transportation, etc.) 
  • Academic tools and resources (book allowance, laptop, tutoring, etc.) 
  • A tailored leadership and professional development program 
  • Post-graduation transition expenses (ex. convocation regalia, return flight, etc.) 

Leadership, Transitions, & Entrepreneurship

A Mastercard Foundation Scholar speaks at a podium

Empowering scholars to lead transformative change across Africa and beyond.

±«ÓãÖ±²¥ Alumni Africa Network

A Mastercard Foundation Scholar mingles with two staff members at an event

Creating a robust and supportive community that promotes the personal and professional growth of underrepresented communities.

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