Earth University – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Mastercard Foundation

The largest scholarship and leadership initiative of its kind in Africa, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program prepares talented and diverse young people with a commitment to giving back with the skills and mindsets they need to pursue their aspirations and enrich their communities. The Program is more than just a scholarship. It offers mentoring, leadership skills development, tutoring, internship opportunities, and career services in addition to covering tuition and basic living expenses. 

Implemented through a Pan-African and global network of more than 50 universities and non-governmental organizations, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is strengthening the higher education ecosystem by encouraging inclusion and accessibility, innovation in teaching and learning, research and collaboration across critical sectors and stakeholders.

The Mastercard Foundation is a Canadian Foundation and one of the world’s largest foundations, with a mission to advance education and financial inclusion. It works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is an independent organization and separate from the company. Its policies, operations and programs are determined by the Foundation’s Board of Directors and leadership.

About the Mastercard Foundation at EARTH University Partnership

EARTH is deeply grateful for the University’s longstanding partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. The current phase of partnership between the University and the Foundation includes four main components:

• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at EARTH
• Mastercard Foundation – EARTH University Fellowship Program
• EARTH Institutional Learning Office
• Partnership Communications

Since 2011, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at EARTH University provides educational opportunities to young people from disadvantaged communities in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. In addition to providing scholarships for young leaders, the Program at EARTH integrates services such as mentoring, career counseling, service-learning opportunities, and internships. Following successful completion of EARTH University’s four-year program, the majority of Mastercard Foundation Scholars return to their countries as part of a growing movement of leaders committed to transforming global food systems and contributing to sustainable livelihoods across the continent.