Leverage networks for success.
The key issue for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in Phase One has been whether there is a need to tailor support to scholars as a distinct group, where the University of Edinburgh’s own transition support is found to be quite general and not as useful as a UK-based student might find it.
Transitions out of studies – the power of networks
Learnings
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has learnt it needs to plug a gap and offer a level of Africa-oriented support to scholars (and, potentially, African students more generally) and acknowledge and think about the potential challenges involved in reconciling Eurocentric career development approaches with the realities which some scholars face in their Home Countries.
- There was a recognition amongst the Program team, of the realities of both the employment market and networking in Africa, in which scholars and alumni must ‘code switch’ between two realities.
- Career mentoring programs (with University of Edinburgh alumni and other Mastercard Foundation alumni based in relevant fields, especially in Africa), have supported scholars' confidence in transitioning out of studies
Scholar story
Gloria Omuya
Gloria Omuya graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 2021 after completing her MSc in Africa and International Development. Gloria is from Kenya a year before and had several years’ of experience working in the non-profit world focused on youth development and education before she won an internship with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at Edinburgh. Following a six-month stint researching alumni engagement amongst African students (including Mastercard Foundation scholars) Gloria moved to the University’s Development and Alumni team as Alumni Relations Project Officer.
Recommendations
- Linking Scholars with Alumni is hugely beneficial and is a clear opportunity to leverage sympathetic knowledge and experience.
- Transitions support requires resourcing to be successful to ensure effective networking between Alumni, Scholars and Alumni, and between Scholars.
- The Transitions Toolkit which is aimed at African International students, offers practical advice and support both for students and staff supporting them. This Toolkit helps those who want to better cope with the challenges that can appear when they transition into a new way of life and a new academic environment.
Scholar story
Sandra Garwe
Sandra Garwe graduated in 2019 with an MSc in Global Health Policy. Her experience as a scholar at the University of Edinburgh was a catalyst for her to realise her talent for and interest in communications. After gradation she won an internship with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team at the University of Edinburgh to lead their external communications.
Testimonials
Alumni are transitioning to Africa and finding employment quickly after graduation. They are entering roles which directly utilise the skills they have developed both academically and in terms of leadership, and actively seek challenges within their roles.
Mid-term Review Summary Report, page three
Read the Mid-term Review Summary Report
The Program has transformed the lives of its scholars and given them much improved opportunities for employment and further study, and that many graduates are working on the continent, in fields relevant to their field of study.
Final Evaluation Summary Report, page one
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