Education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and societies. Around the world, access to quality higher education is increasingly viewed as a critical factor in addressing inequality, building leadership, and driving sustainable development. For students from Sub-Saharan Africa, the opportunity to study at world-class institutions abroad can serve as both a personal milestone and a pathway toward broader social impact.

In recognition of this, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, in partnership with Sciences Po in France, offers young leaders from Africa and beyond an extraordinary chance to pursue graduate studies in one of the world’s most respected social science universities. Through full scholarships, mentorship, and a vibrant academic environment, the program prepares students not only to succeed academically but also to return and contribute to the development of their home communities.

In Uganda, this opportunity has taken on new visibility thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Embassy of France, the Alliance Française de Kampala, Campus France Uganda, and the Uganda-France Alumni Society (UFAS). Together, these partners hosted an information session on September 24, 2025, in Kampala, introducing students to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po and answering key questions about eligibility, benefits, and application procedures.

This article provides a comprehensive look at the program, the importance of the Sciences Po–Uganda partnership, the details of the information session, and why this scholarship represents a transformative opportunity for Ugandan students.

About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) is one of the largest and most impactful scholarship initiatives in the world today. Launched in 2012, the program was created to address a critical issue: the lack of access to higher education for talented but financially disadvantaged young people, particularly in Africa.

Goals and Vision

The program is built on three core principles:

1. Access to Education – Breaking financial barriers by offering full scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
2. Leadership Development – Training students not only as graduates, but as socially responsible leaders who can contribute to positive change.
3. Community Engagement – Encouraging scholars to return to their home countries or regions and apply their skills in ways that strengthen communities.

Global Reach

Since its inception, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has partnered with over 40 universities and non-governmental organizations worldwide. It has provided opportunities to thousands of young people, with a special emphasis on women, refugees, and individuals from marginalized communities.

By joining this network, students benefit from much more than financial assistance; they enter a global community of scholars, alumni, and mentors working together toward inclusive growth and leadership.

Why Sciences Po?

Founded in 1872, Sciences Po (Institut d’Études Politiques de Paris) is widely regarded as one of Europe’s leading universities for the social sciences. Known for producing global leaders, policymakers, diplomats, and innovators, Sciences Po has built a reputation for academic excellence, interdisciplinary study, and global engagement.

Graduate Schools at Sciences Po

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is specifically tied to Sciences Po’s graduate schools, which include:

• School of International Affairs (PSIA) – Focused on global governance, diplomacy, and international security.
• School of Public Affairs – Specializing in public policy, management, and political strategy.
• School of Law – Offering advanced studies in international and comparative law.
• School of Management and Innovation – Combining social sciences with business and entrepreneurship.
• Urban School – Exploring issues of urban planning, sustainability, and development.
• School of Research – Dedicated to doctoral preparation and advanced research methods.

Each of these schools provides programs taught in English or French, giving Ugandan students flexibility depending on their language proficiency.

Global Reputation

Sciences Po is consistently ranked among the world’s top universities in political science, international relations, and public policy. Alumni include heads of state, UN officials, business leaders, and academics who shape global debates.

For Ugandan students, studying at Sciences Po means gaining access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research, and an international student body drawn from more than 150 countries.

The Uganda Partnership

The information session in Kampala highlighted the strong collaboration between French and Ugandan institutions to expand educational opportunities. This partnership brings together:

• The Embassy of France in Uganda – Supporting bilateral academic and cultural cooperation.
• Alliance Française de Kampala – Promoting French language and cultural exchange, as well as education outreach.
• Campus France Uganda – Serving as the official French higher education promotion agency, guiding students through application and scholarship processes.
• Uganda France Alumni Society (UFAS) – A network of Ugandan graduates from French institutions, providing mentorship and peer support.

Together, these organizations not only informed students about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program but also strengthened academic and cultural ties between Uganda and France.

Eligibility and Target Audience

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po is highly selective, ensuring that scholarships are awarded to students with both academic excellence and leadership potential.

Who Can Apply?

• Students must be graduates or currently completing a Bachelor’s degree.
• Only applicants from eligible Ugandan universities may apply.
• Candidates must demonstrate strong academic records, leadership experience, and a clear vision for how they intend to contribute to their communities after graduation.

Areas of Study

Applicants may pursue Master’s programs in any of Sciences Po’s graduate schools. Fields of focus include:

• Public policy and governance
• International relations and diplomacy
• Law and human rights
• Economics and development
• Urban planning and sustainability
• Management and entrepreneurship

This flexibility allows Ugandan students to align their studies with national development priorities, such as governance reform, economic transformation, and urban modernization.

Apply Here!

Information Session: September 24, 2025

The Kampala event offered a comprehensive introduction to the scholarship.

Highlights

• Presentation by Sciences Po: The Head of Sciences Po in East and Southern Africa outlined the university’s graduate programs and the specific support available to Mastercard Foundation Scholars.
• Testimonial from an Alumna: A graduate of the program shared her personal journey, including challenges faced, lessons learned, and opportunities unlocked through Sciences Po.
• Discussion Forum: Participants had the chance to ask questions about eligibility, program benefits, and application procedures.

Key Takeaways for Attendees

• The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and travel.
• Scholars gain access to academic mentorship, career guidance, and leadership training.
• Alumni networks provide long-term professional opportunities across Africa and globally.

Voices from the Program

The alumni testimonial underscored the life-changing impact of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Many graduates have gone on to:

• Work with international organizations such as the UN, World Bank, and African Union.
• Launch social enterprises in their home countries.
• Serve in public service roles, contributing to national policy and development strategies.
• Mentor new scholars, creating a cycle of empowerment.

For Ugandan students, these stories demonstrate that the scholarship is more than financial support — it is a platform for leadership and social change.

Benefits of the Scholarship

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po provides a comprehensive support package that extends beyond tuition:

1. Financial Coverage – Full scholarships including living allowances, housing, health insurance, and travel.
2. Academic Excellence – Access to Sciences Po’s world-class faculty, research centers, and interdisciplinary curriculum.
3. Leadership Development – Specialized workshops, training sessions, and mentorship to nurture responsible leadership.
4. Global Exposure – Opportunities to engage with students and experts from around the world.
5. Career Preparation – Professional internships, networking events, and career counseling.
6. Community Engagement – Scholars are encouraged to participate in service projects and return to contribute to their home communities.

Apply Here!

Application Pathway

Students interested in applying should carefully follow the steps outlined by Campus France Uganda and Sciences Po.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Check that your university is on the list of eligible institutions and verify your academic qualifications.

Step 2: Research Programs

Explore Sciences Po’s graduate schools and select the program that best aligns with your goals.

Step 3: Prepare Application Materials

This typically includes:

• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• A motivation letter
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of English or French proficiency

Step 4: Submit Application

Applications are made through the official Sciences Po admissions portal, with deadlines announced annually.

Step 5: Selection and Interview

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews, either online or in person.

Strategic Importance for Uganda

For Uganda, participation in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po is more than an academic opportunity. It is a strategic investment in human capital.

• Capacity Building: Graduates return with advanced knowledge in governance, economics, law, and policy — fields critical to Uganda’s development.
• International Networks: Alumni create bridges between Uganda and global institutions.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Scholars bring back ideas and skills that foster entrepreneurship and social innovation.
• Soft Power and Diplomacy: Educational ties strengthen cultural and diplomatic relations between Uganda and France.

Apply Here!

Conclusion

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po represents a golden opportunity for Ugandan students to pursue world-class graduate education, develop leadership skills, and join a global network of changemakers.

Through the collaborative efforts of the Embassy of France in Uganda, Alliance Française de Kampala, Campus France Uganda, and the Uganda-France Alumni Society, students now have better access to information, mentorship, and support in pursuing this scholarship.

As Uganda continues to invest in its young leaders, opportunities like this will play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. For students with ambition, vision, and a commitment to social impact, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Sciences Po is not just a scholarship — it is a pathway to leadership, innovation, and lasting change.

For more information, Visit:Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

:opportunitiesforwomen.org/