Transforming Africa Through Education: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill University (2024–2034)
Empowering Sub-Saharan Africa’s Next Generation of Leaders in Health, Agriculture, and Public Policy
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a groundbreaking scholarship and leadership initiative—currently the largest of its kind in Africa. Designed to transform higher education and foster inclusive development across the continent, the program supports visionary, high-potential students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue graduate-level education at world-class institutions.
From 2024 to 2034, the program at McGill University in Canada will offer fully funded Master’s scholarships to exceptional changemakers committed to advancing solutions in nutrition, public health, sustainable agriculture, and public policy. It is more than just a scholarship—it is a platform for systemic change through leadership development, interdisciplinary learning, and collaborative action.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to build a critical mass of ethical, entrepreneurial, and transformative leaders. By focusing on equity, inclusion, and innovation, the program directly supports the development of human capital that is needed to address Africa’s most pressing challenges. It enhances:
Located in Montreal, Canada, McGill University is one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions. Its strong global reputation, paired with its commitment to sustainability and public good, makes it an ideal host institution for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
At McGill, scholars benefit from:
The program is tailored for individuals with a clear commitment to leading change in four high-impact areas:
Scholars will engage in interdisciplinary training to improve food systems, tackle malnutrition, and promote community-level interventions that enhance nutritional outcomes.
Students will explore strategies for strengthening health systems, enhancing healthcare delivery, and advancing policies that reduce disparities across populations.
With a focus on evidence-based governance, scholars will be equipped to design, advocate for, and implement policies that foster equitable development.
Future agricultural leaders will gain knowledge in agroecology, food security, and climate-resilient farming systems to support livelihoods and ecosystems across Africa.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at McGill is open to graduate (master’s) level applicants who:
Candidates from marginalized or underrepresented communities—including women, refugees, and persons with disabilities—are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Mastercard Foundation scholarship is fully funded, providing:
What sets this program apart is its focus on long-term leadership development. Scholars engage in:
Over ten years, the program at McGill will cultivate a community of hundreds of visionary African leaders who are equipped with world-class education and the tools to drive meaningful, scalable impact across the continent.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is not just about academic success—it’s a movement to transform Africa through empowered, values-driven leadership.
Interested candidates should visit McGill University’s official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page to learn about:
.
Global South Opportunities is a one stop-digital platform addressing opportunity imbalances by sharing verified global prospects like jobs, scholarships, and grants to empower often marginalized communities, particularly in the Global South.
Through the Global South Indaba, we produce impactful video content on key topics like the SDGs, promoting positive change and advocating for the resilient Global South in their fight against poverty, hunger, and climate change.
Our Opinion Articles section amplifies diverse voices and expert insights, fostering meaningful global discussions.
[email protected]
source