Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Celebrates a Decade of Leadership Excellence at UCT

The UCT International Office was delighted to host the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program “Decade of Leadership Excellence” celebrations from 9 to 10 September 2025. All the exciting events marked a historic partnership milestone dedicated to empowering our Scholars as Africa’s future leaders.

Scholars Dialogue

The festivities began on 9 September with the inaugural Mastercard Foundation Scholars Dialogue, themed African Leadership in a Changing World. The Dialogue opened with remarks from Prof Quinton Johnson, Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the International Office at UCT. He recognised the Scholars as changemakers and challenged them as leaders to make our complex world better. This was followed by an address from the Canadian High Commissioner to South Africa HE James Christoff, who noted that “We are living through a time of profound global transformation.” He went on to say that academic diplomacy linking people, partnerships and progress is vital to addressing the many challenges faced by humanity. Africa will have nearly half the world’s youth in years to come and these young people are vital to inclusive, sustainable development. In his closing address, Vice-Chancellor Prof Mosa Moshabela said, “We had a remarkable panel of young Scholars sharing their leadership perspective. It was truly inspiring and left me optimistic about Africa’s future. Witnessing your growth, development, and achievements encourages me deeply, because it shows that what you do matters. I draw energy from your progress and success. Keep writing your stories and we will continue to celebrate you.” Current Scholars, graduates and alumni joined the discussion, sharing their perspectives on leadership and the transformative impact of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program over the past decade.

Scholars Luncheon

On 10 September, UCT welcomed distinguished guests, staff, Scholars and Alumni to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Luncheon at the Baxter Theatre. Serving as Programme Director, Prof Johnson guided the proceedings, which featured opening remarks from Prof. Moshabela, a keynote by Dr. Peter Materu, Mastercard Foundation Chief Program Officer, remarks from Acting DVC Research and Internationalisation Prof. Murugan about the “Decade of Leadership Excellence “publication, as well as reflections from the Scholars Council President, Mr Law Mugadhuyi. 

In his opening speech, Prof. Moshabela said that he was inspired by the growth, work and development of the Scholars, which was important to him. He urged the Scholars to keep writing, telling and sharing their stories, which will be celebrated as he congratulated the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on its 10th Anniversary. Dr Peter Materu went on to state that “It hasn’t been a linear journey, but it has been a successful journey, congratulations to the University of Cape Town and all those who have contributed to making this partnership work.”  The luncheon also marked the launch of the commemorative publication “Celebrating 10 Years of Leadership Excellence” presented by UCT Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Internationalisation Prof Jeff Murugan who said, “This publication stands as a proud testament of 10 years of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT. This volume is a celebration of excellence and the enduring belief that when young people are equipped with the tools to thrive, they will transform the world.” Prof. Johnson also noted that the publication that was launched provided a powerful narration of the journeys of our Mastercard Foundation Scholars and their impact, which was truly extraordinary.  It was a fitting moment to reflect on the accomplishments of Scholars and celebrate their leadership over the past decade. Moreover, the Scholars Council President Law Mugadhuyi graciously thanked the University, International Office, Mastercard Foundation and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars for their wonderful support over a decade of leadership excellence

Scholars Graduation

This celebratory week also coincided with UCT’s graduation ceremonies - always a spectacular occasion where families, friends and the broader university community come together to celebrate years of dedication and achievement. We were exceptionally proud to witness 21 of our Mastercard Foundation Scholars graduate across a wide range of disciplines from education and engineering to health sciences, commerce, humanities and law. The moment not only affirmed their academic excellence but also highlighted their resilience, leadership and determination. Their success stands as a beacon of inspiration for future generations and reminds us that education continues to transform lives and communities. 

Scholars Concert

On the evening of 10 September, the Baxter Theatre came alive with the rhythms of Africa at a celebratory concert featuring Em. Prof Dizu Plaatjies and the Ibuyambo Orchestra, joined by guest artist Thongo Tutsu. The event opened with introductory remarks from Ms Zinzi Nkalitshana, Program Manager, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This was followed by the welcome from Prof Johnson, alongside congratulatory messages from UCT Vice-Chancellor Prof Mosa Moshabela and the vote of thanks from Ms Maryam Gqamane, Scholars Council General Secretary. The concert beautifully captured the spirit of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program as vibrant, inspiring, narrational and deeply rooted in African culture. 

Over the past decade, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT has supported hundreds of Scholars, equipping them with not only academic excellence but also the leadership skills and vision to make a difference. Reflecting on this milestone, Prof Quinton Johnson said: “This has truly been an extraordinary journey and it was a privilege and honour to celebrate a decade of leadership excellence this week. We are incredibly proud of our Scholars and their achievements over the years and the lasting impact they will continue to make. This milestone marks just the beginning, and we eagerly anticipate what the future holds, because when young people are given the tools to succeed, they will have the power to transform the world.”

The International Office extends heartfelt thanks to all staff from the International Office, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Mastercard Foundation Scholars and Alumni, partners and guests who joined in celebrating this remarkable journey with us.