The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides academically talented yet financially disadvantaged young people, particularly from Africa, with access to quality and relevant secondary and university education. Students selected for the Program receive a comprehensive package of financial, social, and academic support throughout their education and during their transition into post-graduate life. The Program consists of a global network of educational institutions and non-profit organizations that share the belief that education is a catalyst for social and economic transformation.

Supported by the Mastercard Foundation with funding amounting to USD 17.38 million, this ten-year programme was launched in August 2013 and is implemented by FAWE through its National Chapters in Ethiopia and Rwanda. The programme runs until December 2025.

In Ethiopia, the Scholars Program at FAWE Ethiopia offers a comprehensive scholarship package to 800 students (600 girls and 200 boys) throughout secondary school (Grades 9 to 12). The Program aims to provide bright yet disadvantaged students with the necessary scholastic materials and empowerment support to acquire essential knowledge and skills through quality education. This enables them to access better livelihood opportunities and contribute to household, community, and national development. The Program is currently implemented in eight partner schools, both private and public, located in four marginalized areas where gender disparities in education are most pronounced: Bahir Dar city in the Amhara region, Adama city in the Oromia region, Hawassa city in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR), and marginalized parts of Addis Ababa city administration. To date, the program has reached 400 students.

In Rwanda, the Scholars Program at FAWE Rwanda provides students with scholastic materials as well as skills training, leadership development, counselling, and mentoring. The program aims to support 1,200 girls in secondary school—young leaders across three cohorts (Senior Secondary 4 to 6)—to acquire essential knowledge and skills through quality education. This enables them to pursue their aspirations and contribute to household, community, and national development. All Scholars are selected through a transparent process that promotes community participation and ownership. Approximately 70 percent of secondary scholars transitioning to university are expected to receive full or partial support from the Program, while a few may access full international scholarships from other Mastercard Foundation partner universities.

About the Mastercard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation works with visionary organizations to expand access to education, skills training, and financial services for people living in poverty, primarily in Africa. As one of the largest private foundations, its work is guided by its mission to advance learning and promote financial inclusion in order to create an inclusive and equitable world. Based in Toronto, Canada, the Foundation was established in 2006 by Mastercard as an independent entity.

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