The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to develop Africa’s next generation of leaders. With a vision that education is a catalyst for social and economic change, the program focuses on developing leaders who are transformative, encouraging them to be active contributors in their communities.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars are supported during their time at UCT with a holistic development programme. All scholars are part of the mentorship programme and are encouraged to participate in various leadership opportunities on campus. This includes an annual leadership training camp and a two-day entrepreneurship bootcamp.
Other ongoing activities arranged by the program focus on personal and professional development, as well as career management and planning.
Involvement in community projects and giving back is encouraged. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Council takes the lead in arranging an annual Service Day. Through the foundation’s pilot Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund, Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni can pitch for funding for social enterprise initiatives that make a real impact in communities.