The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), invites applications for the 2026 Innovation and Technology Scholarship. This prestigious initiative aims to empower young African professionals through access to world-class graduate education in technology, innovation, and development.
Over the next five years (2025–2030), the program will support 160 talented individuals to pursue online master’s degrees offered by ASU. What makes this opportunity unique is its hybrid model—students will benefit from the flexibility of ASU’s online learning while receiving in-person academic and professional support through Kepler College in Rwanda. This partnership ensures a holistic experience that integrates digital education with mentorship, leadership training, and community engagement.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, 40 fully funded scholarships will be awarded. Each scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for a two-year master’s program, ensuring that Scholars can focus entirely on their academic and professional development.
Beyond financial support, Scholars will gain access to a comprehensive development experience that includes:
The scholarship is not only a pathway to academic excellence but also a commitment to driving social and economic change across Africa.
Successful applicants will be eligible to pursue one of the following ASU Online full-time master’s degrees:
Each program has been carefully selected to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to Africa’s technological, economic, and social transformation.
To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Incomplete or ineligible applications will not be reviewed.
The Innovation and Technology Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity that includes:
All awards are tenable for the full duration of the master’s program.
Interested candidates must apply by Sunday, 2 November 2025, at 23:59 GMT.
Applicants should first apply for the scholarship. Shortlisted candidates will then be guided through the formal ASU admission process. Please note that direct applications to ASU will not be considered at this stage.
The selection process includes an initial application review, followed by a virtual or phone interview for shortlisted candidates. Final scholarship decisions will be announced by April 2026, and successful applicants will begin their program in July 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda.
There are two ways to submit an application:
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility requirements and guidance notes before submission to avoid disqualification.
For more information, please visit the official Mastercard Foundation–ASU Scholars Program page or email [email protected] for inquiries.
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the scholarship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

.

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