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RUFORUM MasterCard Foundation Undergraduate & Masters Scholarship Award 2019/2020 for young Africans.

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: Sunday 31st March 2019 at 17:00 Hours (GMT+3).

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), in partnership with Mastercard Foundation is implementing an eight year transformative project to ruforum-mastercard-foundation-scholarship-award-20172018-for-young-africans/meaningfully contribute to Africa’s growth and development. The aim of the partnership is to transform African agricultural universities and their graduates to better respond to developmental challenges through enhanced application of science, technology, business and innovation for rural agricultural transformation

Under this partnership, 110 undergraduate and 110 Masters Scholarships will be provided over a period of eight years. The scholarships target academically deserving yet economically disadvantaged, marginalized communities and those coming from conflict and post conflict areas of Africa. The scholarships are tenable at Egerton University in Kenya and Gulu University in Uganda. Students enrolled under this scholarship program will receive comprehensive scholarships, leadership development, life skills support, entrepreneurship training and mentorship and exposure to community engagement

For the academic year 2019, 50 Undergraduate and 20 Masters Scholarships will be made available, of which 70% will be for Kenya and Uganda nationals. Sixty percent (60%) and fifty percent (50%) of the scholarships will be awarded to undergraduate and masters’ female applicants, respectively. These scholarships are only tenable at Gulu University in  Uganda and Egerton University in Kenya.

Eligible Programs of study The following academic programs are eligible for application during the Academic Year 2019.

Gulu University

1. Bachelor of Science in Agri-Entrepreneurship and Communication Management (5 slots)
2. Bachelor of Science in Food and Agribusiness (5 slots)
3. Bachelor of Science in Biosystems Engineering (5 slots)
4. Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (5 slots)
5. Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology (5 slots)
6. Master of Science in Agri-Enterprises Development (5 slots)
7. Master of Science in Food Security and Community Nutrition (5 slots)

Egerton University

1. Bachelor of Agribusiness Management (7 slots)
2. Bachelor of Science in Community Development (6 slots)
3. Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Management (6 slots)
4. Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and Technology (6 slots)
5. Master of Science in Agricultural Extension (5 slots)
6. Master of Science in Soil Science (5 slots)


Application procedure

Applicants should obtain application forms for both the scholarships and admission from the university of choice.

Applicants shall only apply to one university of choice. Application forms can also be downloaded by clicking following websites: RUFORUM; Gulu University and Egerton University .

Applicants are encouraged to carefully study the application guidelines and provide all the required information and documents prior to submitting the application. Females are particularly encouraged to apply.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the MCF@RUFORUM Scholarships is Sunday 31st March 2019 at 17:00 Hours (GMT+3).

Download the MCF Application Form 2019 and the Advert MCF Scholarship for more details.

See  English Version here

See French Version here

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the RUFORUM MasterCard Foundation Undergraduate & Masters Scholarship 2019/2020

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Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2019/2020 for study in France (Fully Funded)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: February 18th 2019

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po aims to support 120 talented African students through their studies and to offer the next generation of leaders a world-class social science education, so they can go on to become changemakers in their home countries.

Over six years (2017 – 2022), the Scholars Program will fund:

The Mastercard Foundation created this merit-based scholarship program to give the most talented African students the chance to benefit from a quality education and pursue their ambitions, whatever their background. The scholars are supported throughout their university education in the social sciences so they can go on to become changemakers in their home countries.

Finance your studies
The program offers scholarships:
• to complete the Sciences Po Bachelor of Arts programme,Africa specialisation
• to complete a two-year Master’s programme at one of the seven graduate schools
• to attend Sciences Po Summer School

Requirements:

  • The scholarships are awarded to students from sub-Saharan African countries with an outstanding academic record and strong leadership potential, but who face financial and other barriers to higher education.
  • The scholarships are awarded for a period of three years for the Bachelor’s degree, two years for the Master’s degree and one month for the Summer School. They cover the full cost of tuition fees at Sciences Po and living costs in France during the study period.

As well as funding their studies, Sciences Po will offer scholars a specific suite of resources to ensure they have appropriate academic support and to facilitate their transition from education to employment:

  • An orientation programme and individualised academic advising throughout their studies at Sciences Po
  • A mentor programme offered in collaboration with the Africa Division of Sciences Po Alumni
  • Career guidance and support: an online job platform dedicated to professional opportunities in Africa (internships and first jobs), access to our business incubator and the network of employers and alumni working in Africa, and specific career workshops.

Benefits:

  • The scholarships cover the full cost of tuition fees at Sciences Po and living costs in France during the study period.

Prepare to launch your career and train in entrepreneurship
Scholars participate in career workshops and training modules in entrepreneurship focused on the African market.

Return to Africa and contribute to the continent’s development
Undergraduate Scholars complete the civic internship and spend their third year studying in Africa. Graduate Scholars complete an internship related to African issues.

Join the network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars
Each year, five Scholars take part in a summit organised by the Mastercard Foundation where they get to meet their counterparts studying at other leading universities in North America, Europe and Africa, and debate the issues facing Africa today.

Succeed academically
In addition to funding, Scholars benefit from individual academic support throughout their studies

2019-2020 Deadlines

Application deadlines for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships are:
  • Bachelor: January 31, 2019
  • Master: January 15, 2019
  • Summer School: February 18, 2019

Application Procedure:

  • Apply to the scholarship : To apply, go to www.sciencespo.fr/students, “Fees & Funding” then “Bursaries and Financial Aid” Contact: [email protected]

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Sciences Po Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2019/2020

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MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2019/2020 at McGill University in Canada (Fully Funded)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: February 4th 2019

McGill University and the Mastercard Foundation are pleased to offer full scholarships to economically challenged, academically gifted Master’s students from Sub-Saharan Africa through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This scholarship program is designed to sponsor outstanding, community engaged students to attend university who otherwise would not have the opportunity, thereby, fostering the development of future Sub-Saharan African leaders and entrepreneurs.

In addition to financial support, Scholars are provided with a comprehensive support network that includes an array of mentoring and support services to ensure each student’s academic success, community service engagement and transition to socially relevant employment opportunities, when they return to Africa at the conclusion of their studies.

To be eligible for consideration for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Master’s Program at McGill, you must:

  1. Be admissible to one of the eligible programs at McGill University (see Program List below);
  2. Have never completed any graduate studies;
  3. Be nominated by a professor of a recognized Mastercard Foundation Partner University, or;
  4. Be nominated by a current McGill Professor or Staff Member ( PDF icon Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program – 2019 Nomination Form.pdf);
  5. Be a citizen of and have lived a significant part of your life in a Sub-Saharan African Country (see List of Eligible Countries below);
  6. Have an exceptional record of service and activity in your school and/or community;
  7. Have an intent to return to your country immediately upon the completion of your degree with the goal of transforming your community through social and economic development;
  8. Demonstrate that your financial status is in the lowest two quintiles of your country.

Timeline:

  • Application Period Begins : September 15, 2018
  • Deadline to submit the Application for Admission in uApply and the Mastercard Scholars
  • Program application documents in uApply: Your choice program’s deadline (no later than February 4th)
  • Deadline to submit Supporting Documents (including transcripts, reference letters, resumes, etc.): February 4, 2019
  • Mastercard Foundation Scholars Selection Committee begins to make scholarship offers: March 14, 2019

For further questions about the application and admission process please contact [email protected].

Downloads:

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2019/2020 at McGill University

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Call for Applications

Mastercard Foundation Secondary Education in Africa Today (SEAT) Youth Ambassador Program 2018 for young Africans (Fully Funded with Stipend)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: 30th November 2017 at midnight (12:00 am) GMT.

The Mastercard Foundation, together with a group of strategic partners, has initiated a collaborative effort to take stock of progress in expanding access to quality, relevant and inclusive secondary education on the continent and to propose a forward looking agenda. The primary focus of this effort is the role of secondary education in preparing African youth for the future of work and for helping youth to acquire the skills, knowledge, and behaviors necessary to compete and succeed in the job market as responsible citizens, including both informal and formal sectors.

This effort, entitled Secondary Education in Africa Today: Preparing Youth for the Future of Work (SEAT), builds on the World Bank’s Secondary Education in Africa Initiative of 2003 to 2008, which was aimed at African policy makers and development partners, and was intended to take stock of the state of secondary education across the Continent and to identify policy options and evidence based strategies for increased support.

The effort will include a process of ongoing consultation, engagement, and dissemination of these knowledge products widely through a variety of formats. It will engage a diverse set of stakeholders, including African governments and policymakers, secondary education experts, bilateral and multilateral donors, private foundations, NGOs, private sector employers, representatives of civil society, and youth.   Mastercard Foundation seek to have young people influence priorities, provide context, review and discuss findings and recommendations and promote dissemination throughout the research process.

The Mastercard Foundation is convening a group of 5 young people from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) representing a range of perspectives who can contribute to this project study, both as contributors and as ‘ambassadors.’   Youth Ambassadors will provide insights, inputs as well as direct contributions at important junctures, from design to completion and dissemination of the project’s products.  The Foundation seeks balance in the selection of Ambassadors in terms of region, gender, and experience, including experiences with conflicts, disability, refugee status, education etc.

The Foundation is partnering with the Association for Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) to engage Sub-Saharan African policymakers and youth throughout this process.  ADEA will take a lead role in working with the Youth Ambassadors and facilitating their participation and inputs in the process.

Selection Process:

  • Ambassadors will be selected by the Mastercard Foundation’s and ADEA’s networks to ensure the full range of diverse opinions.
  • As part of the selection process, applicants will be asked to submit an essay (details on the essay question below).
  • Applicants have to submit all required documents by 30th November 2017 at midnight.
  • The selection will be based on an assessment of the essay and curriculum vitae.

Essay (500 words):

Based on your experience, what is the most important challenge you faced in secondary education?  How might you raise awareness or mobilize others around that challenge? You could use one or a combination of medium (e.g. essay writing, drawings, video clips, podcasts) to answer the question.

 

Time Commitment and Role

  • Youth Ambassadors will participate over approximately 18months, from January 2018 to as late as March 2019.
  • The organizers anticipate that involvement in the project over the course of this period will be equivalent to approximately 5-8 hours a month, for a totally of 12-15 full days.

Benefits

  • The Foundation is able to offer a modest stipend to Ambassadors to compensate them for their time in this initiative.
  • Additionally, the Foundation will cover costs of participation, including attendance at meetings (i.e. travel, meals, and accommodation) and other incidental costs.

Expected tasks

  • Contribute to drafting questions for a survey of youth views and priorities on secondary education in SSA
  • Support in the dissemination of the survey to young people to hit the target of 200 surveys completed
  • Support in the compiling of data and analysis of the survey to feedback into the report
  • Contribute to reviewing the Concept Note and intermediate and final reports of the SEAT initiative
  • Conduct small focus groups with other young people to gain a better youth perspective and ensure the greatest amount of voices are heard and included
  • Participate in 1-2 Ministerial conferences or other meetings in person (likely in Africa)
  • Participate in 5-7 virtual meetings (primarily via conference call or Skype)
  • Provide feedback and editing of report on youth views on secondary education, in partnership with ADEA
  • Serve as author(s) or co-author(s) of 2-3 youth blogs on this subject
  • Participate in the launch of the Secondary Education in Africa Today (SEAT) report in late 2018 and early 2019
  • Help to disseminate the report and publicize it through personal and professional networks
  • Contribute to discussions via a WhatsApp group of young people to be able to respond to real-time questions for the report

Application Procedure:

The candidate should submit an essay and a CV to [email protected] no later than 30th November 2017 at midnight (12:00 am) GMT.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Mastercard Foundation SEAT Youth Ambassador Program 2018

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Scholarships

University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2018/2019 for study in Scotland (Fully Funded)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: 17:00 GMT on Thursday 30 November 2017

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the University of Edinburgh will provide 200 full scholarships to students from Africa with great academic and leadership potential but few educational opportunities.

On top of the scholarship, the Scholars Program facilitates transformative leadership programming to inspire and support Scholars in making change change in their communities and countries on their return home.

Benefits:

  • The University of Edinburgh offers a fully funded academic and transformative leadership program for undergraduate and postgraduate students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Students will receive comprehensive support to remove barriers to study in Edinburgh and will benefit from extracurricular opportunities including summer schools and internships.
  • The program aims to build the abilities and talents of each student so they can make a difference to their home countries and communities on their return.

Undergraduate

The Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh will provide 80 undergraduate scholarships to students from Africa with great academic and leadership potential but few educational opportunities.

  • 25 scholarships are available for the 2018/2019 academic year which will cover the full tuition fees and expenses for accommodation and maintenance.

Program Details

As well as receiving an excellent education at one of the top ranked universities in the world, Undergraduate Scholars will:

  • Receive comprehensive support, mentoring, and reflective opportunities through the Scholars Program:
  • Participate in UK and Africa based summer schools on transformative leadership;
  • Complete a course on African development;
  • Undertake a project-based placement in the UK and in Africa;
  • Receive support on their return to their home country; and
  • On graduation, 50% of Undergraduate Scholars will have the opportunity to complete a distance learning Masters degrees at The University of Edinburgh after their return to Africa.

Eligibility

  • Applicants must qualify academically for admission to the University of Edinburgh in any course except Medicine and Vet Medicine. This includes a high level of English language skills.  Applicants should apply directly to the Scholarship program – details in the sections below;
  • Applicants must be a resident and citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country, whose personal circumstances would make accepting an offer from The University of Edinburgh difficult.
  • Applications from Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe are particularly welcome;
  • Applicants should not have completed an undergraduate degree previously;
  • Applicants must demonstrate a track record of leadership and service within their community; and
  • Applicants are able to present economically disadvantaged circumstances and be able to show that they lack financial means from family or other sources to pursue post-secondary (university) education in their home country or elsewhere.

Value of the Scholarships

The scholarships will cover for the following:

  • Costs incurred for visa application processing;
  • Costs incurred for English language tests;
  • Economy class air tickets to and from Edinburgh for awardees who are citizens and residents of a Sub-Saharan country;
  • Full tuition fees at the Overseas rate;
  • University accommodation;
  • Meals through University accommodation (in the first year);
  • A general stipend to cover basic living costs, including an academic allowance towards prescribed textbooks, printing and school supplies.
  • Costs related to community activities as prescribed by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program;
  • Access to project placement opportunities in Scotland and Africa; and
  • Participation in a summer school in Scotland and Africa.

Postgraduate

The Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh will provide 60 postgraduate scholarships to students from Africa with great academic and leadership potential but few educational opportunities.

10 scholarships are available for the 2018/2019 academic year, which will cover the full tuition fees and expenses for accommodation and maintenance.

On top of financial support, Scholars will participate in activities as part of the wider Scholars Program (link) at the University of Edinburgh including work-based placements, mentorship, and other activities during the academic year.

Scholarships are available for the following postgraduate programs:

  • MSc Africa and International Development
  • MSc Environment and Development
  • MSc Global Health Policy
  • LLM Human Rights
  • MA Product Design
  • MSc Sustainable Energy Systems

Program Details

As well as receiving an excellent education at one of the top ranked universities in the world,
Postgraduate Masters Scholars will:

  • Receive comprehensive support, mentoring, and reflective opportunities through the Scholars Program;
  • Complete six courses followed by the production of a dissertation;
  • Participate in a Scholars Retreat designed to nurture transformative leadership skills; and
  • Undertake a work-based placement in their home region as part of their research which will include reflective learning.

Eligibility

  • Applicants must qualify academically for admission to the University of Edinburgh in one of the programmes listed above. This includes a high level of English language skills.  Applicants should apply directly to the Scholars Program.
  • Applicants must be a resident and citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country, whose personal circumstances would make accepting an offer from the University of Edinburgh difficult.
  • Applications from Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe are particularly welcome;
  • Applicants must demonstrate a track record of leadership and service within their community; and
  • They should be able to present economically disadvantaged circumstances and be able to show that they lack financial means from family or other sources to pursue post-secondary (university) education in their home country or elsewhere.

Preference will be given to candidates who have not already had the opportunity to study in Scotland. The scholarship is not available to students already on programme.

Value of the Scholarships

The scholarships will cover for the following:

  • Costs incurred for visa application processing;
  • Costs incurred for English language tests;
  • Economy class air tickets to and from Edinburgh for awardees who are citizens and residents of a Sub-Saharan country;
  • Full tuition fees at the Overseas rate;
  • University self-catered accommodation;
  • A food stipend to cover costs of food expenses;
  • A general stipend to cover basic living costs, including an academic allowance towards prescribed textbooks, printing and school supplies.
  • Costs related to community activities as prescribed by the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program;
  • Access to work-based placement opportunities and a small work-based placement fund; and
  • Participation in the Scholars Retreat.

Awards are tenable for the duration of the undergraduate programme of study, and at the end of the award candidates will be required to return to Africa.

Application:

Application Procedure

  • Applications for 2018 entry to the Mastercard Foundation Scholar Programs at the University of Edinburgh will open on Monday 9 October.
  • The deadline for all applications will be 17:00 GMT on Thursday 30 November.
  • All applicants must apply for the scholarship first through our online application form and, if successful, will be assisted in the process of applying for admission to the University.
  • Interviews via video or phone will be held during February and March 2018, with final decisions made by April. All successful applicants will join the Program in September 2018.
For More Information:Visit the Official Webpage of the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 
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University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2018/2019 for study in Canada (Fully Funded)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: November 15th 2017

The University of British Columbia (UBC) and the Mastercard Foundation have partnered to provide full scholarships to academically promising undergraduate students from sub-Saharan Africa. The vision of the program is to educate bright yet economically marginalized young people in Africa who have demonstrated a “give-back” commitment and who seek to use their
education to contribute to the transformation of the continent.
Nominations for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver campus will be accepted from secondary schools and recognized international development agencies and their affiliates, or registered local or international charitable and not-for-profit organizations. Each school or organization may nominate a maximum of three students. Prospective undergraduate students nominated for the MCFSP at UBC may not additionally be nominated for the International Leader of Tomorrow Award or the Donald Wehrung International Student Award at UBC.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for consideration for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UBC, the nominee must:
• be a citizen of a sub-Saharan African country whose permanent residence is in sub-Saharan Africa;
• present economically disadvantaged financial circumstances correspondent to that of the lowest two quintiles of their country’s socio-economic scale, and be able to show they lack financial means from family or other sources to pursue post-secondary ( university) education in their home country or elsewhere;
• have a very strong academic record (‘A’s) and meet UBC’s admissions requirements, including UBC’s English Language Admission Standard (visit http://you.ubc.ca for detailed admissions information);
• have a record of service, extra-curricular involvement and leadership in their school and/or community;
• be graduating/recently graduated from a recognized senior secondary school;
• be applying for their first undergraduate degree in one of the following Faculties at UBC’s Vancouver campus:
o Faculty of Arts (Bachelor of Arts)
o Vancouver School of Economics (Bachelor of International Economics)
o Faculty of Applied Science (Engineering)
o Faculty of Forestry
o Faculty of Land & Food Systems (including Global Resource Systems; Food, Nutrition & Health; Applied Biology (Applied Animal Biology, Applied Plant & Soil Sciences or Food & the Environment))
o Faculty of Science
o Sauder School of Business (Bachelor of Commerce)
• be an international student who will be studying at UBC on a Canadian Study Permit;
• demonstrate a commitment to returning to Africa immediately after graduation from UBC and giving back to his/her home community in ways that enhance the economic growth and social development of Africa. Convention refugees, students intending to become landed immigrants to Canada, and students who have already entered or completed post-secondary schooling are not eligible for consideration for this award.
The decisions of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Selection Committee on all nominations are final.

Application Instructions

A student must be nominated for the Undergraduate MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia. Nominations will be accepted from secondary schools and recognized international development agencies and their affiliates, or registered local or international charitable and not-for-profit organizations. Each school or organization may nominate a maximum of three students.  Note that you will need to apply online to the University of British Columbia AND also submit the Undergraduate MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program nomination package.

Nominations

Nominations are now OPEN.

You can find the application package below:

UBC MCF Undergraduate Nomination Package

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2018/2019

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University of California Berkeley MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2017/2018 for Study in USA (Fully Funded)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: November 30th 2016

The University of California, Berkeley has partnered with The MasterCard Foundation in a collaborative, global network of education institutions and non-profit organizations that believe education is a catalyst for social and economic advancement. The future of Africa will be shaped by its young people, including those talented, yet economically disadvantaged students who face significant barriers to accessing quality education.

The Program aims to benefit 17,000 young people over 10 years, mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa. At UC Berkeley, the Program will provide comprehensive financial, social, and academic support up to 118 students from 2012 to 2020, and is open to both undergraduate and professional Master’s students.

Eligibility Requirements:

The five main eligibility criteria are:

  • Being a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country – If you have refugee status, are stateless, or have other questions regarding your citizenship, you may still be eligible. Please contact us directly to clarify. This scholarship is not intended for citizens of North African countries.
  • Excelling academically – All prospective Scholars must first be admitted to UC Berkeley to be considered for the Scholarship. An important criteria for admission to the University is demonstrated academic excellence.
  • Coming from an economically disadvantaged background – We aim to admit those from the bottom two income quintiles per country. This Scholarship is designed for those extremely talented individuals who have no other means of acquiring the further education required to help realize their dreams and ambitions.
  • Having demonstrated the will to give back to your community, country, or continent – We are looking for well-rounded students who are engaged in activities beyond the classroom. Some may be directly related to your field of study, but this may also include other issues (social, economic, political) that you are working on and passionate about. Applicants should elaborate on their achievements both in their application to UC Berkeley, and then later on the Scholarship application.
  • Having expressed the desire and intention to return to your home country after completing your studies – We are looking for students who are engaged with and passionate about issues affecting their communities, and who will take advantage of their education at UC Berkeley to better equip themselves with the knowledge and training to address these issues upon return. While important work can be done from abroad, the intention of this Program is to enable Scholars to return home, after forming valuable professional connections through internship and job placements.

Benefits:

The Program is designed to provide holistic support, including:

  • Comprehensive scholarships (school fees, living expenses, books, stipends, transportation).
  • Mentoring and counselling including emotional and academic support.
  • Service and experiential learning (volunteerism, internships, entrepreneurship, ICT).
  • Transition support into higher education or the workforce in Africa.
  • Alumni network of next-generation leaders committed to service.

How to Apply

Both undergraduate and graduate degree seekers must first be admitted to the university through the regular admissions process before they will be considered for the MasterCard Foundations Program Scholarship. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions and the Graduate Division provide detailed information on the admissions process for international student

For more details, please select the level of studies you would like to apply for:

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the UC Berkeley MasterCard Foundation Scholar Program

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Fellowships

WARA Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship Program 2016 for Young West African Scholars ($USD12,000 in Research Grants)

by OFA
written by OFA

Application Deadline: July 30th 2016

The West African Research Association (WARA), in collaboration with The MasterCard Foundation, is pleased to announce support for young West African scholars through its new Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship program. This program reflects our joint commitment to increasing opportunities for emerging West African scholars, people who are transforming ideas into active solutions to the challenges facing the region and the world at large.

In addition to a 1500 word proposal, budget, CV, two letters of recommendation, applicants must submit a statement explaining how their research will contribute to meeting critical needs on the continent.

Requirements:

  • The Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship is open to doctoral students under age 35 who are based in West African institutions of higher education, for research on the continent.
  • Priority will be given to research projects focusing on women, technology and entrepreneurship.

West Africa, like other parts of the world, is rich in intellectual resources. Universities are home to scholarly communities of scientists, historians, artists, and social scientists. Young scholars in the region are carrying out innovative, cutting edge research in agriculture, technology, the humanities, and a wide range of other fields. They are poised to deliver innovative solutions to challenges posed by the changing climate, demographic shifts, and cultural transformations that mark our times. The Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship program will support the research initiatives of young scholars.

Benefits

  • In 2016, the Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship program will award three doctoral research grants of $4,000 each.

The West African Research Association is devoted to the promotion of research and scholarly exchange between and among West African and US scholars and institutions. Over the past 15 years, WARA has directly supported the work of some 100 West African researchers. WARA’s overseas headquarters, The West African Research Center (WARC) is located in Dakar, Senegal. WARA is a member of the Smithsonian-based Council of American Overseas Research Centers and has its U.S. offices at Boston University’s African Studies Center.

Apply Now for the WARA Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship Program 2016

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the WARA Ideas Matter Doctoral Fellowship Program 2016

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Call for Applications

2015 MasterCard Foundation Fund for Rural Prosperity Innovation Competition

by lanredahunsi
written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: 15 March, 2015.

The MasterCard Foundation Fund for Rural Prosperity is a $50 million challenge fund to extend financial services to people living in poverty.

The innovation competition seeks applications from organisations aiming to design, pilot, test, and launch new financial products and services that can effectively meet the financing needs of people living in poverty in rural and agricultural areas.

The Innovation Competition seeks proposals for a new financial product, service or process that will increase access to finance for rural poor people. Mastercard Foundation hopes to harness the creativity of the private sector to facilitate increased financial access for underserved markets and financially excluded people living in rural and agricultural areas in Africa.

The innovation competition is open to project proposals where implementation will take place in the following countries:

  • Benin, Burkina Faso
  • Burundi
  • Cameroon
  • Côte d’Ivoire
  • Djibouti
  • DRC
  • Ethiopia
  • The Gambia
  • Ghana
  • Kenya
  • Liberia
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Mali
  • Mozambique
  • Niger
  • Rwanda
  • Senegal
  • Sierra Leone
  • Tanzania
  • Togo
  • Uganda
  • Zambia

Eligibility

  • The MasterCard Foundation Fund for Rural Prosperity will only support ideas from institutions looking to deliver a financial service, product or process to rural poor people in an eligible African country (see list of countries above).
  • Projects may be proposed by a single institution or by a partnership of two or more of them (which could include a non-governmental organization); however, the proposal must be made by one company acting as the lead organization.
  • Firms that apply should have an established and verifiable institutional track record. The fund will only consider start-ups in exceptional circumstances where there is strong evidence that the new company has credible and experienced investors and management team.

Examples of institutions that are eligible include:

  • Banks;
  • Non-bank financial institutions such as insurance or leasing companies;
  • Agribusinesses that provide a financial service or that partner with a financial institution to deliver a financial service to their supply chain;
  • Firms that use mobile or IT technology to support the delivery of financial services to rural poor people; and
  • Firms that provide a non-financial service designed to facilitate increased access to financial services for financially excluded rural poor people. These firms may apply on their own as a lead applicant or may apply in partnership with a financial institution or agribusiness.

Summary of Eligibility Criteria

Eligible projects under The MasterCard Foundation Fund for Rural Prosperity must meet the following criteria:

  1. The proposal must be for a project within an institution.
  2. Projects may be proposed by a single institution or by a partnership of two or more of them (which could include a non-governmental organization); however, the proposal must be made by one company acting as the lead organization.
  3. Projects for the Innovation Competition must take place in one of the countries listed as eligible for the Innovation competition.
  4. Projects in the Scaling Competition must take place in one of the eight core countries eligible for that competition.
  5. Projects must demonstrate the potential to increase the provision of financial services to financially excluded poor people in rural areas of eligible countries.
  6. Applications made to the Innovation Competition should be for support of between $250,000 and $1 million. For the scaling competition, applications should be for support of between $750,000 and $2.5 million.

Register Now for the MasterCard Foundation Fund for Rural Prosperity

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the MasterCard Foundation Fund for Rural Prosperity

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Fellowships

Social Entrepreneurs Transforming Africa Fellowship Programme.

by lanredahunsi
written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: December 13 2013

Social Entrepreneurs Transforming Africa (SET Africa) is a fellowship program for young social entrepreneurs from across Anglophone Africa. SET Africa provides these young leaders with training, networking, and funding opportunities. The programme is managed by the Makerere University Business School (MUBS) Entrepreneurship Centre in Kampala, Uganda. SET Africa is part of the YouthActionNet® global network of 16 institutes supporting 889 young social entrepreneurs around the world who are impacting 1.3 million lives annually.

SET Africa now invites applications from young social innovators in Anglophone Africa who are founders or co-founders of ventures with a social mission to apply for the SET Africa fellowship run by MUBS. Fellows under this programme will be trained in entrepreneurship and leadership. They will also receive funds to help grow their social enterprises and implement activities to achieve their vision.

The SET Africa programme is managed in collaboration with MUBS, the International Youth Foundation, The MasterCard Foundation, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Eligible Ventures:

a)      Ventures led by youth between 18 and 29 years old that are making a difference in their community.

b)      The venture should have at least one year of impact in the community.

c)      The venture should be able to demonstrate evidence in addressing social problems such as improving access to services like education, finance, health, counseling,  capacity building, helping households increasing incomes, helping children grow in a good environment etc.

d)      The venture can be a non-profit, for-profit, or hybrid business model.

Eligible Applicants:

a)      Must be a founder or co-founder of a social venture.

b)       Should be a citizen from an Anglophone Country (See list of Countries).

c)      Should be between 18 – 29 years by February 24, 2014.

d)       Can demonstrate innovative approaches in addressing social problems.

e)      Should be proficient in English

f)       Must be willing and able to attend a leadership retreat in Kampala, Uganda.

Selection Process:

There will be a transparent selection process using the following steps:

a)      Phase I

This will involve selection of the most innovative social entrepreneurial ventures based on pre-determined selection criteria. Selected applicants will continue to the second phase.

b)      Phase II

This will involve verification of the eligibility of the applicant. This will again be assessed by the selection committee (see eligibility above).

c)      Phase III

The selection committee using predetermined criteria shall evaluate each applicant. Each applicant will be assessed independently by at least two selection committee members. It is from this that a total of 25 applicants from Anglophone countries will be selected.

Benefits:

  • As part of this programme, the 25 selected fellows will travel to Kampala, Uganda and attend a leadership retreat organized by the MUBS Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and ICT Centres.
  • The Retreat will take 9 days. As part of the programme, there will be innovation awards for successful applicants to support the development of their social ventures.
  • In addition, mentoring, networking, and further support will be provided to all participants both in their home countries and online for a period of six months after the Retreat.

Timeline

Deadline for receiving applications: December 13, 2013 at 11:59 East African Time

Notification for successful applicants: January 31, 2014

Announcement of successful applicants: February 3, 2014

How to Apply:

Online applications can be completed and submitted at www.setafrica.org.

The application can also be completed offline and emailed as a PDF or Word document to [email protected] not later than December 13, 2013 at 11:59 East African Time.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Social Entrepreneurs Transforming Africa Fellowship Programme.

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The MasterCard Foundation Youth Think Tank Report.
Blog

Introducing The MasterCard Foundation Youth Think Tank Report.

by lanredahunsi
written by lanredahunsi

In 2012, The MasterCard Foundation established a Youth Think Tank. As part of a wider Youth Engagement strategy, The Think Tank is one of many ways the Foundation is able to directly hear from and listen to the voices of young people. The Think Tank is intended to provide insight on issues surrounding our two program areas — Youth Learning and Financial Inclusion — and develop youth-led ideas for our programs and strategies.

To ensure their contributions fed directly into research that was relevant to the Foundation, it anchored the Think Tank to the following question:

How can we increase youth employment (formal, informal, and self-employment) in growth sectors such as agri-business, green growth, ICT, and financial services in Sub-Saharan Africa?

Eight Think Tank participants from seven partners and five countries in East and West Africa dedicated their time and energy to answering this question.  They interviewed 160 young people, business and community leaders and collaborated to analyze the themes and emergent learnings.  Each member clearly demonstrated the dedication, passion, and thoughtfulness possible when providing young people opportunities to conduct research and participate in this type of process.

The participatory research and wider Think Tank process challenged participants to question their assumptions about youth employment in Africa while building their skills and networks across the continent. As Maurice Bukenya from the African Leadership Academy noted the biggest learning opportunity was from my fellow participants and interviewees. These two groups pushed me to think beyond my assumptions especially on a critical issue such as youth unemployment. 

This sentiment was echoed by Peris Mwangi from Equity Group Foundation who said the interviews allowed me to understand and interpret young people’s understanding of youth employment. Discussions with other Think Tank members gave me perspective and diverse views. During discussions, I was able to share my views and listen to the views of others providing a connection between employment challenges and what can be done about them.

At the Foundation, the research completed by the Think Tank provided a nuance to the role parents play influencing the employment and education choices of young people. It highlighted the desire of young people to take leadership roles and participate in the decisions that impact them, and it challenged our own assumptions about growth sectors and the meaning of entrepreneurship. So much so, that we drafted a new research question that will help us refine our Youth Learning strategy.

Our Think Tank completed another 96 interviews with young people and business leaders to help test our assumptions, compliment our research, and ensure the voices of young people were integrated into our strategy development process. Critically, this process has helped demonstrate to our partners and other stakeholders one way to engage young people at an institutional level.

The development and administration of the Think Tank will continue throughout 2013 and into 2014. It has been the result of the commitment and efforts of numerous Foundation staff across multiple departments, participating partners who share our commitment to working alongside young people, as well as the energy of our participants. As Maurice rightly says, before this I had not worked on anything like a Think Tank, and for a first experience I must say that this Youth Think Tank has been phenomenal.

Download the Mastercard Foundation Youth Think Tank Report

Source: Mastercard Foundation Blog

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anzisha-prize-2013
Call for ApplicationsPrizeSocial EnterpriseSouth Africa

The 2013 Anzisha Prize-$75,000 Prize for Young African Entrepreneurs.

by lanredahunsi
written by lanredahunsi

Application Deadline: April 1st 2013.

The Anzisha Prize is the premier award for African entrepreneurs aged 15-22 who have developed and implemented innovative businesses or solutions that have a positive impact on their communities.

The Anzisha Prize is an initiative of the African Leadership Academy’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Leadership in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation.

anzisha-prize-2013

Eligibility:

  • Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 22.
  • Innovations in all fields (science and technology, civil society, arts and culture, sports, etc.) will be considered by the Prize Committee.
  • Some projects are carried out by small groups or teams that see themselves as equal. Should this be the case with your project, the primary initiator who assembled the project team should apply for the prize on behalf of the group. Should the group be named a finalist, only the primary initiator of the winning group will attend the workshop in South Africa, though winnings may be shared amongst the group.

 

Prize
Finalists will travel to South Africa for a weeklong entrepreneurial conference and stand to collectively win $75,000 in cash prizes, as well as access to lifelong mentorship that can be provided by Anzisha Prize’s vast network of individual partners, organizations, and youth leaders.

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