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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge was established in 2022 as a collaboration between the University and the Mastercard Foundation. Over 500 Scholars from the African continent will be enrolled in the program between 2023 and 2030 to undertake a wide range of Master's courses. 

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program  would provide bright students from under-represented communities in Africa with a fully funded opportunity to complete their Master's training, develop transformative leadership skills and contribute to climate resilience and sustainable futures in Africa. Ultimately, the mission of the  Mastercard foundation Scholars program at the University of Cambridge is to contribute to the development of a transformative network of young people, critical to driving sustainable change. 

News and features

Mastercard Foundation Scholars shine at the international Geneva Challenge

12 December 2024

From L-R: Simiso Shabangu, Cynthia Ugwu, Chibuzor Ndubisi, Titilola Hassan. Credits: Geneva Challenge | Geneva Graduate Institute I’m extremely glad to have been part of a team from the University of Cambridge that secured the Second Place Prize at the Geneva Challenge 2024. This year’s competition, themed ‘The challenges...

‘An opportunity to return to Africa and contribute, to change narratives’

5 December 2024

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumnus Muhammad Balarabe explains how his experiences in Cambridge are helping him contribute to a sustainable future for Africa. Muhammad Balarabe graduated from the American University of Nigeria in 2021 with a passion for public health and a clear plan; to learn from leading...

‘Being here opens up your mind’: Thabiso Ncube shares his journey so far and first impressions of Cambridge life

25 November 2024

Now in its third year, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cambridge will enable 500 talented, service-oriented young Africans to pursue a master’s and grow their leadership potential. As one of the 16 Mastercard Foundation partner institutions offering postgraduate training, the Mastercard...