The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is expected to commit $45 million to fund studies for about 185 gifted, underprivileged MSU students particularly from Africa, according to a press release.
Two undergraduate and four graduate students receiving funds from the scholarship came to MSU this fall as part of the program.
The program is expected to fund a total of 100 undergraduates and 85 master’s students throughout the nine-year program.
The program is part of The MasterCard Foundation’s $500 million education initiative for scholars to receive education and experience to use in their home country and impact the global economy.
MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon said in the release that Africa has the capability for change and economic expansion, but graduation rates for secondary and higher education are below those globally.
Students in the program will receive financial, social and academic support, along with connections to use for future education or jobs in Africa, according to the press release.
MSU is the only university in the Midwest to be part of the worldwide program. MSU is expected to support the highest number of scholars out of other national colleges receiving funds.
To help scholars after completing the program, The MasterCard Foundation Scholars and Alumni network is expected to be created to give scholars local, national and global connections.
MSU plans to recruit a network coordinator to arrange annual conferences for the students, according to the press release.
MSU has a history of support and connections with Africa, including 2,500 African alumni.
Scholarship applications for the program will be available Nov. 15.
University spokesman Kent Cassella could not be reached for comment Wednesday evening.
Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
