Sh6.2b to aid needy students

About 1,000 students from poor families will receive scholarships through a partnership between USIU-Africa and the Mastercard Foundation.

The Sh6.2 billion scholarship targets young women, displaced or refugee youth, and youth living with disabilities.

“The partnership provides scholarships for high-potential students facing financial, gender, displacement or disability constraints,” said USIU-Africa Vice Chancellor Paul Zeleza.

He said the university has joined the foundation’s expanding global network of partners committed to developing a generation of African leaders who will use their knowledge and skills to lead change in their communities, and contribute to transformation across the continent.

The 10-year partnership will see selected students receive quality education and leadership development. The scholars’ programme at USIU-Africa is expected to kick off in the 2020-21 academic year.

“With the support of the Mastercard Foundation, we look forward to significantly expanding the impact and reach that USIU-Africa has had all across the world by moulding students who will catalyse Africa’s continued advancement into a better, brighter future,” said the VC.

Mastercard Foundation’ Chief Programme Officer Peter Materu applauded the university’s academic standing and commitment to equity and inclusion. 

“Our partnership with USIU-Africa builds on this historic work, which is already serving thousands of young leaders on the continent. Fundamentally, it is about expanding opportunity to young people, irrespective of their socio-economic background,” he said. Zeleza said by embracing the scholars’ programme, the university would increase its international student population.