The University of Pretoria (UP) and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) recently co-hosted an event in Hatfield to welcome UP’s 2023 MCFSP cohort and to mark 10 years of the programme at the University.

“In 2013, UP entered into an agreement with Mastercard to support 347 scholars,” said Dr Grace Ramafi, MCFSP programme manager. “I’m proud to say that we’ve surpassed that number – the latest cohort brings the total number to 460. I hope that with the next funding, we will be able to support more than 1 000 students.”

The aim of the MCFSP is to develop leaders who will support social transformation and economic growth in Africa. Recipients are provided with financial, psycho-social and academic support, along with other relevant opportunities, to cultivate them into future leaders in their communities.

The Scholars in the 2023 cohort come from 18 African countries. This year, the programme welcomed 43 newcomers, with the remaining 24 scholars falling into previous cohorts and transitioning from undergraduate studies to honours, and from honours to master’s degree programmes.

UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe (centre) poses for a celebratory picture with this year’s recipients of support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

In his address to the recipients, UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe indicated that the MCFSP was initiated on the premise that “all young people, regardless of circumstances, should have the opportunity to obtain a quality education and pursue their aspirations”.

“To become a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, you must be academically sound, display high leadership qualities and demonstrate the zeal to impact the lives of everyone around you,” he said. “You have been selected for this programme because you’ve shown the capacity and potential to be a leader who will meaningfully contribute to the economic and social development of our continent. Thank you for choosing UP as your academic destination, and for partnering with us as we use education and knowledge as the basis for addressing the many challenges our planet faces and to create new societies for a better, more sustainable world.”

For Mosebetsi Khobotlo, a student from Lesotho who is studying towards a BA (Hons) in International Relations, the scholarship is a blessing.

“This means more than having my fees paid – it is more to do with being developed holistically in terms of leadership, personal development and academic aspirations. This is an opportunity that is going to open doors for me. Thank you to Mastercard for offering me this scholarship.”

South African student Motlalekgomo Mofokeng, who is studying towards a master’s degree in law, is equally grateful.

“This will help me to realise my dream career. I am looking forward to studying hard and getting good grades. I really appreciate this opportunity from Mastercard and UP.”

David Ouma, a Kenyan postgraduate who is studying towards a BA (Hons) in Rural Development, says the scholarship is the motivation he needed to excel.

“For someone who comes from a disadvantaged background like myself, this scholarship has come at the right time. I intend to perform exceptionally well and give back to my home country. I am grateful to Mastercard and UP for this opportunity.”

Read: UP and Mastercard Foundation launch 2022 Scholars Program