Mastercard Foundation Scholars at UWC during student onboarding. Image: UWC

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative designed to develop the next generation of transformative leaders by enabling highly talented, service-oriented young people, primarily young Africans, to pursue higher education and cultivate their leadership potential. Beyond access to education, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports young people to apply their knowledge and skills to address challenges in their communities.

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) first partnered with the Mastercard Foundation in July 2023. The partnership marked a significant milestone for UWC, aligning with its dedication to inclusive and socially engaged education.  Under the partnership, UWC is offering comprehensive scholarships through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to 250 undergraduate and 250 master’s degree students over a seven-year grant cycle.

At UWC’s spring graduation, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Bakic Hassan Manyang Malith crossed the stage to collect his hard-earned Master’s degree in Public Health, graduating cum laude. The 32-year-old hails from Juba, South Sudan, and dedicated his qualification to his late father, who inspired his perseverance and resilience.

“It was an emotional moment when they called my name. At first, when I arrived in South Africa, I did not think I would make it to where I am,” he shares.

UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Robert Balfour meets with Mastercard Foundation representatives to explore new opportunities for impact. Image: UWC

As I walked across the stage, I thought of my late father’s words, that I should earn a degree before pursuing other major life milestones. By graduating, I was honouring his wishes.”

Malith adds that when he completed his honours degree at Uganda’s St. Lawrence University, he had no idea how he would further his studies. He shares that he initially aspired to pursue his master’s degree at Makerere University but had to cut his journey short as he could not afford tuition and accommodation fees.

“I was conflicted at the time and didn't know what would happen. So, I told my friend I wanted to complete my degree but didn't have financial support. In return, he shared with me a link to apply to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, and I submitted my application,” says Malith.

“I am grateful for the opportunity that the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program afforded me. As I walk out of the institution, I am grateful for the relationships I have forged, the support, and great memories that I will hold dearly.”

He says he now actively shares information with his peers in his home country to inspire them to pursue opportunities available through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to further their studies in their respective fields.

Malith is also the founder of Nile Harvest Produce, an agricultural enterprise he established in the Mingkaman Internally Displaced Persons Camp in South Sudan. The venture aims to improve local food production while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in a community affected by displacement and economic instability.

Image: Adobestock

Across Africa, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program continues to support talented young people in overcoming barriers and pursuing their aspirations.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Johannah Mkhwanazi, originally from Dennilton, Limpopo, graduated with a Master of Science in Statistical Science cum laude. This milestone reflects her dedication to furthering her education. Her journey took a significant turn in 2024 when she discovered the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program through university emails and recognised it as an opportunity to pursue her academic ambitions. With support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Mkhwanazi was able to focus on her studies. She achieved a distinction in her master’s research.

“I came across the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program through emails from UWC in 2024. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program made a significant difference in my academic journey by easing the financial burden associated with my studies, allowing me to focus more on my academic work and research.”

Mkhwanazi credits the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program with helping her complete her degree and achieve a distinction in her research.

“I am grateful for the opportunity and the support I received throughout this journey.”

She explains that, coming from a small town in Limpopo, completing her qualification is a significant milestone.

“It represents years of hard work, perseverance, and growth, and has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to pursue my career goals in data science and analytics.”

Mastercard Foundation Scholars celebrate their 2025 Spring Graduation. Image: UWC

“My next chapter is focused on growing professionally, gaining more experience, and contributing to projects where I can use data to solve real-world problems.”

“I also hope to give back by supporting and encouraging other young people, particularly those who aspire to pursue higher education, to believe in themselves and work towards their goals.”

Beyond academics, she adds that her experience with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has been very positive.

“The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has been very supportive in many ways, ensuring that Mastercard Foundation Scholars have access to academic guidance and holistic support throughout their university journey.”

“What stands out most to me is the sense of community and belonging that the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program creates, making the University experience about more than just obtaining a qualification,” adds Mkhwanazi.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Calisto Blessmore Marime, 30, from Harare, Zimbabwe, recently completed his Master’s in Mathematical Science at UWC, graduating summa cum laude. He is currently the Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni Steering Group (ASG) at UWC. He is also pursuing his PhD in Applied Mathematics at Stellenbosch University.

“It was in 2023 when my former supervisor at the institution referred me to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program that I was encouraged to apply. When I was selected as a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, I realised that the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program was more than just financial support, but a call to be part of a driven community to make an impact,” he says.

“I remain 100% committed to the ASG, where we are connecting our Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni with current students through support to ensure success.”

He says these efforts help prepare students for the real world of work. Marime remains closely connected to UWC and uses his expertise to give back by sharing valuable knowledge with undergraduate students and tutors.

“I am a graduate lecturing assistant at UWC. I work closely with tutors before they even take part in any classes with undergraduates to ensure they are fully prepared and aligned.”

To date, 44 master’s degree Mastercard Foundation Scholars have graduated from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC, with 23 scholars achieving distinction. Eighteen Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni have progressed to PhD studies, while four alumni are currently employed. These achievements reflect the combined impact of dedicated academic supervision, faculty academic and administrative support, the holistic support provided through the Wrap Around Support Programme, and access to the University's extensive postgraduate academic, research and student support services.

The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organisations to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous youth in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. It is one of the largest foundations in the world, working to advance education and financial inclusion.