PRETORIA – When 177 young leaders from 22 African countries gather in one hall, the future of a continent doesn’t just feel possible—it feels tangible.
This week, the University of Pretoria (UP) officially launched its 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, reinforcing its position as a hub for Pan-African excellence. Since becoming the first South African institution to partner with the Foundation in 2013, UP has transformed the scholarship from a financial grant into a comprehensive ecosystem for “connected excellence.”
Beyond the Classroom: A Holistic Mission
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Francis Petersen, reminded the cohort that their presence is a testament to talent that transcends borders. “We are a university, and as the word indicates, it is universal in nature,” he noted, stressing the bridge between local context and global impact.
The 2026 cohort is one of the most diverse to date, intentionally including:
- Socially conscious leaders from 22 different nations.
- Resilient young people facing economic barriers.
- Inclusion-focused placements for refugees and students with disabilities.
Building Ethical Architects of Change
This fully-funded program isn’t just about tuition. It is a rigorous leadership incubator. Scholars are immersed in mentoring, entrepreneurship training, and structured community engagement. The goal is clear: to return graduates to their home countries equipped to solve 21st-century challenges—from climate change and governance to technological disruption.
Dr. Grace Ramafi, Senior Programme Manager, described the launch as a “declaration of endless possibilities.” As these 177 stories of hope and aspiration converge at UP, they represent a collective commitment to leading Africa with integrity, purpose, and service.
