A decade of leadership excellence

The University of Cape Town’s (UCT) International Office hosted the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program’s “Decade of Leadership Excellence” celebrations from 9 to 10 September. All the exciting events marked a historic partnership milestone dedicated to empowering the university’s scholars as Africa’s future leaders.

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 Professor Quinton Johnson, the 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 said: “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.

UCT Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela delivered the closing address: “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, Mastercard Foundation 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 Professor Moshabela; a keynote by Dr Peter Materu, Mastercard Foundation chief programme officer; remarks from acting deputy vice-chancellor (DVC) for Research and Internationalisation, Professor Jeff Murugan, about the Celebrating 10 Years of Leadership Excellence publication; as well as reflections from the Scholars Council President, Law Mugadhuyi.

In his opening speech, Moshabela said that he was inspired by the growth, work and development of the Scholars, which was important to him. He urged them to keep writing, telling and sharing their stories. He also congratulated the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on its 10th anniversary. Materu noted: “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 Celebrating 10 Years of Leadership Excellence. Professor Murugan 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.”

Johnson also noted that the publication 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 scholars’ accomplishments and celebrate their leadership over the past decade. Moreover, Mugadhuyi graciously thanked the university, International Office, Mastercard Foundation and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars for their wonderful support over a decade of leadership excellence. Group photograph of UCT and Mastercard Foundation executives and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program staff with the launch of the “Celebrating 10 Years of Leadership Excellence” publication.

Scholars’ graduation

This celebratory week also coincided with UCT’s graduation ceremonies, a spectacular occasion where families, friends and the broader university community come together to celebrate years of dedication and achievement. Twenty-one Mastercard Foundation Scholars graduated 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 Emeritus Professor Dizu Plaatjies and the Ibuyambo Orchestra, joined by guest artist, Thongo Tutsu. The event opened with introductory remarks from Zinzi Nkalitshana, the programme manager of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This was followed by the welcome from Johnson, alongside congratulatory messages from Moshabela. The vote of thanks was given by Maryam Gqamane, the Scholars Council’s general secretary. The concert beautifully captured the spirit of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program as vibrant, inspiring, narrational and deeply rooted in African culture.