FAWE Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme: A Pathway for Marginalized Youth

The FAWE Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme is offering a significant opportunity for brilliant yet marginalized young people in Ghana to pursue higher education. This initiative, now accepting applications for its 2026-2027 academic year, aims to provide fully funded bursaries for study at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. The program specifically targets individuals who face financial barriers to education, with a strong emphasis on supporting female applicants, as well as those with disabilities or refugee and internally displaced status.

Understanding the FAWE Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme

The Forum for African Women Educationalists Ghana Chapter (FAWE Ghana), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is running the second phase of its bursary program. This program is designed to support the third cohort of students for the upcoming academic year. It focuses on providing access to STEM-related programs, leading to a Higher National Diploma (HND) or a Diploma. The goal is to equip young Ghanaians with valuable skills for future employment and community development.

Key Benefits of the Bursary

A total of 200 fully funded bursaries are available through this program. The distribution is structured to ensure broad access and support for underrepresented groups. Eighty percent of the bursaries are reserved for female applicants, recognizing the historical challenges women have faced in accessing higher education, particularly in STEM fields. The remaining twenty percent are for male applicants. Furthermore, a portion of these bursaries, between 5% and 15%, is specifically allocated to Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and individuals who are refugees or internally displaced persons (IDPs). This inclusive approach ensures that those most in need have a chance to advance their education.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To be considered for the FAWE Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme, applicants must meet several requirements. Firstly, they must have successfully completed their WASSCE (West African Senior School Certificate Examination) or Certificate II, demonstrating their readiness for tertiary education. A critical component of the application is the proof of financial need; applicants must show that they cannot afford to pursue higher education without assistance.

The age range for applicants is between 15 and 25 years at the time of application. The program is open to residents from all sixteen regions of Ghana. A crucial requirement is that applicants must have already secured admission into one of FAWE Ghana’s eleven partner TVET institutions. These institutions include well-regarded technical universities across the country, such as Accra Technical University, Kumasi Technical University, and Takoradi Technical University, among others. Finally, applicants must demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing positively to their communities through service and development initiatives. It is important to note that all information provided in the application, including details about household and living conditions, will be subject to verification.

How to Apply for the Bursary

Interested and eligible candidates can apply for the FAWE Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme through an online application portal. The application link is provided for easy access. It is essential for applicants to carefully fill out all required information, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Given the program’s focus on community contribution, applicants should be prepared to articulate their plans for giving back. The deadline for applications is August 21, 2026, so prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before this date. For further details and to access the application, candidates can visit the official FAWE Ghana website.

Conclusion

The FAWE Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme represents a vital opportunity for young Ghanaians, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, to access quality education in STEM fields. By offering fully funded bursaries and prioritizing female applicants, individuals with disabilities, and those facing displacement, the program actively works to break down educational barriers. This initiative not only supports individual academic and career aspirations but also aims to foster a new generation of leaders and innovators committed to community development across Ghana.