Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a groundbreaking global initiative dedicated to nurturing transformative, service-driven leaders from Africa. Established in 2012, the program provides full scholarships and comprehensive support including tuition, accommodation, academic materials, mentorship, and leadership development to outstanding young people facing significant social and economic barriers.
Who Should Apply?
- Highly talented, service-oriented African youth, especially those from underrepresented groups including women, refugees, individuals with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged communities
- Applicants pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees; note that PhD scholarships are not currently offered
What’s Included?
- Full coverage of tuition, housing, visa support, travel expenses, health insurance, and a living stipend
- Academic mentoring, psycho-social support, leadership training, entrepreneurship and career guidance
When & Where to Apply
Scholarships are awarded through partner universities, each handling its own application and deadlines. For example:
- McGill University (master’s level): Opens August 4, 2025, and closes August 31, 2025 (click to apply>) McGill University.
- University of the Western Cape (undergraduate & master’s): Applications for the 2026 academic year close on August 31, 2025 Mastercard Foundation+8Funds for NGOs+8Jotform+8.
- University of Cambridge: Application round for 2026/27 opens in September Mastercard Foundation.
Ready to Apply? Here’s What to Do Next:
- Choose a Partner Institution
Explore the list of partner universities such as McGill, UWC, Cambridge, CMU-Africa, ASU, and Berkeley and decide which aligns with your chosen field and academic goals - Check Eligibility & Deadlines
Review the specific application window and requirements for your preferred university. For master’s programs, McGill opens in early August 2025, UWC closes its round at the end of August 2025, and Cambridge opens in September 2025 - Prepare Your Application
Complete the institution’s standard admission procedures (e.g. submit transcripts, test scores) and then apply separately to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. For McGill, you must first attend an info session to access the MCF application in August 2025 Mastercard Foundation+1Mastercard Foundation+1Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program+8McGill University+8Mastercard Foundation+8.
Action Steps
- Bookmark partner university application pages (e.g., McGill, UWC, Cambridge).
- Mark your calendar for key dates (August–September 2025).
- Prepare recommendation letters, personal statement, and evidence of leadership or community service—these are crucial parts of your application package Mastercard FoundationMastercard Foundation.
African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) 2025
Are you a girl between the ages of 17 and 25, passionate about technology, leadership, and social change? If you dream of becoming a coder, innovator, or a digital entrepreneur, The African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) is for YOU!
Apply for the African Girls Can Code Initiative (AGCCI) 2025
The AGCCI is aimed at equipping 100 girls and young women across Kenya with world-class digital skills, mentorship, and leadership training to become active shapers of Africa’s digital future.
UN Women Kenya, in close collaboration with the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, Ministry of Gender and Ministry of Education will host two intensive residential coding camps in Nairobi August and September 2025. These camps will each bring together 100 passionate and driven girls and young women from across the country for a transformative experience focused on coding, Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, civic tech, and digital entrepreneurship.
Camp Details
• Camp 1- 16th to 29th August 2025 (50 participants)
• Camp II- 6th – 19th September 2025 (50 participants)
Why Apply?
Successful applicants will:
• Participate in a fully sponsored residential tech bootcamp (coding, AI, cybersecurity, civic tech, platform economy, etc.)
• Engage in hands-on learning, peer-to-peer collaboration, and real-world digital challenges
• Receive mentorship from leading women in STEM, AGCCI alumni, and tech professionals
• Deepen their understanding of gender equality and women’s empowerment including frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Beijing Platform for Action, and explore how digital tools can drive social change
• Take part in interactive sessions on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV), building awareness and strategies for safe, inclusive digital engagement
• Learn how to design and pitch impactful digital solutions addressing local community challenges
• Access ongoing opportunities in leadership, advocacy, digital safety, and youth networks Who Can Apply?
• Girls and young women aged 17–25 from across Kenya, especially those from marginalized or underserved communities
• Students or recent graduates with interest in tech, coding, or digital innovation
• Girls and young women with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply — inclusive access and support will be provided
• While prior coding experience is an added advantage, it is not a must — all you need is motivation, curiosity, and a commitment to learn and lead
How to apply
Submit your application using the online form here
Deadline
24th July 2025
For your application to be considered, you must-
• Complete the application form
• Provide a valid email address
• Provide a valid phone number (this can be of your parent/guardian if you are below 18 years)
• Indicate the camp you are available to attend between Camp 1 (16th to 29th August 2025) and camp II (6th – 19th September 2025)
• For minors (aged below 18 years) provide signed authorization from your parent/guardian to attend the coding camp (a template has been provided as part of the registration link)
Join the AGCCI Movement Implemented in Kenya since 2022, AGCCI has impacted 113 girls and young women by equipping them with digital skills, boosting their confidence, and empowering them to become leaders and innovators in their communities. This is your chance to join a regional movement transforming Africa’s digital future — one girl at a time.
