Mastercard Foundation Scholarship in Ghana: A Comprehensive Guide

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars (MFS) Program is a transformative education initiative that seeks to prepare talented young people from developing countries for careers in entrepreneurship, farming, governance, economic leadership, public and health services, and non-profit and human rights organizations.

The MFS has been instrumental in empowering young persons from various backgrounds to pursue their academic aspirations to contribute meaningfully toward the nation's development.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarships program is a dynamic, global initiative that has been sponsored by the Mastercard Foundation, a nonprofit entity that has been single-mindedly focused on driving financial inclusion and youth development since 2012. It, therefore, aims to provide scholarships to brilliant but economically disadvantaged students from Africa and other parts of the world.

Likewise, during implementation in Ghana, the MFS program has equally been contextualized in such a way that certain specific educational challenges and opportunities are addressed.

Paternered Universities In Ghana

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarships program has partnered with selected but few reputable universities in Ghana, which can provide scholarships to qualified students. The quality and supportive learning environment of these universities cultivate academic excellence and personal growth. Some of the institutions that have been identified in Ghana for this scholarship scheme are Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and Ashesi University

Mastercard Foundation Scholarship's Eligibility Criteria

The candidates applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship in Ghana must have the following:

1. Candidates have to demonstrate clearly brilliant academic performance during their secondary education.
2. All candidates must come from low-income backgrounds and be unable to fund their education with financial aid.
3. A candidate must reveal exceptional leadership qualities with a critical commitment to community service.
4. The candidate must be a Ghanaian citizen.

Application Process

Applications for Mastercard Foundation Scholarships to Ghanaian Universities normally involves:

1. Online Application: The applicants will need to make an online application by filling out the form concerning their academic achievement, financial need, leadership experiences, and future desires.
2. Academic Transcripts: The applicant must attach a copy of his academic transcripts and certificates.
3. Recommendations: Letters of recommendation by teachers or mentors should be provided to attest to their academic abilities, character, and potential.
4. Interviews: An applicant may be shortlisted for an interview as further a way of ascertaining his or her suitability for the program.

Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Success Rate

The competition is very high in the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships program in Ghana. Only a few selected candidates are being granted scholarship awards since there is only a limited number of scholarships relative to the huge number of eligible applicants. However, due to the demanding process conducted while selecting those for awarding, clearly, scholars emerge who deserve and have proved that they can make a difference.

Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships

Some of the benefits that accrue to the students from the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships program include the following:

1. The tuition fee for the beneficiaries is catered for in full.
2. Beneficiaries receive a stipend amount sufficient to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport.
3. Beneficiaries are allocated a budget for books, supplies, and other learning materials for use during the period.
4. Awardees go through leadership development activities which would make them even better than what they currently do, and also prepare them for future careers.
5. The awardees are assigned a mentor who would guide, support, and advise on career matters.
6. These awardees get exposure to alumni and professional networks that could avail them of insight and opportunities.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in Ghana offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for talented young individuals in Ghana. The Program provides access to quality and leadership development for the next generation of leaders who will be part of the contributing factors to the progress of the nation for the benefit of all.