This archive report was first published on 15 July 2020.
Mastercard Foundation and USIU-Africa Partner to Expand Access to Higher Education in Africa ¶
On July 15, 2020, the Mastercard Foundation and USIU-Africa announced a partnership to provide scholarships to 1,000 high-performing students over the next 10 years under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
The partnership aims to support students facing financial, gender, displacement, or disability constraints, with at least 70% of the beneficiaries being young women, 25% being displaced or refugee youth, and at least 10% being young people living with disabilities.
With a total commitment of USD 63.2 million (Ksh.6.7 billion), the partnership will enable USIU-Africa to increase its international student population from 15% to 20% and enhance socio-economic diversity among its students.
Speaking about the partnership, USIU-Africa's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Zeleza, noted that it was a milestone in the university's history, saying, 'With the support of the Mastercard Foundation, we look forward to significantly expanding the impact and reach that USIU-Africa has had all across the world, by moulding students who will catalyze Africa's continued advancement into a better, brighter future.'
Mastercard Foundation's Chief Program Officer, Peter Materu, expressed excitement about onboarding USIU-Africa as a partner in the Scholars Program, citing the university's excellent academic standing and demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is an initiative to develop Africa's next generation of leaders by giving students, whose talent and promise exceed their financial resources, an opportunity to complete their education.
Through the Program, Scholars receive holistic student support, including comprehensive scholarships, leadership development, and access to internships and industry-driven career services.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at USIU-Africa is expected to kick off in the 2020/2021 Academic Year.
