The University of Pretoria proudly welcomes the 2025 Cohort of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, a group of outstanding young leaders from across the African continent. This launch marks the continuation of an impactful partnership between UP and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, reaffirming a shared commitment to education, leadership, and social transformation. Since its inception in 2013, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP has provided talented students with comprehensive mentorship, and leadership training, enabling them to excel in their respective fields and drive change in their communities. With Phase II (2024-2030) now in full swing, the program has broadened its scope beyond STEM disciplines to include Law, Humanities, and Theology and Religion, ensuring a more inclusive and multidisciplinary approach to development.

This year, we welcome 134 exceptional Scholars, including 61 undergraduate, 32 Honours, and 40 Masters' students, with 56% of the cohort being female. These Scholars join a dynamic academic environment at one of Africa’s top research-intensive universities, where they will have access to cutting-edge resources, world-class faculty, and robust leadership programs. “Today, the University of Pretoria proudly welcomes 134 exceptional Scholars from 20 African countries into the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program! This marks the largest cohort UP has ever hosted, a testament to the Program’s commitment to transforming lives through education, leadership and impact-driven learning, expressed Dr Grace Ramafi the

Senior Manager at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP.”  In her powerful address, Dr Ramafi reminded Scholars that they were chosen not just for their academic excellence but for their potential to shape Africa’s future. With wraparound support, leadership training, and community engagement, these young leaders are poised to drive change across the continent. The launch event, held at The Function Hall on 28 February 2025, featured a powerful keynote address by the VC and Principal Prof. Francis Petersen, emphasizing the program’s transformative impact. Attendees were also inspired by Mr. Josiah Muriuki’s motivational talk, followed by an engaging cultural performance by Ms. Ruth Kasanga, reinforcing the program’s commitment to holistic development.

Beyond academics, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP is a catalyst for social change, equipping students with the skills needed to address critical African challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, gender-based violence, and digital transformation. Scholars participate in entrepreneurship training, leadership masterclasses, and career development initiatives, ensuring they graduate work-ready and socially responsible. The success of the program is evident in its strong alumni network, which includes innovators, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs making a tangible difference globally. From advancing food security in Zimbabwe to strengthening political engagement in Malawi, Mastercard Foundation
alumni continue to shape Africa’s future.

As we celebrate this new cohort, we reaffirm our belief that education is the cornerstone of progress. With the unwavering support of Dr Grace Ramafi and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team, these Scholars are set to flourish academically, grow as leaders, and ultimately transform their communities.

Welcome, Cohort 2025—the future of Africa shines brighter with you!