The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is at the forefront of nurturing the next generation of transformative leaders. I highly recommend this programme to others seeking a holistic and impactful scholarship experience.

Godbless James

Itumeleng is one of six Scholars from Africa currently undertaking an engineering-related Master’s degree at Cambridge. Itumeleng and her peers are among a wider cohort of 46 Scholars, who are drawn from 18 different African countries, and who are studying a range of subjects during the 2023-24 academic year as part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Established in 2022 as a collaboration between the University and the Mastercard Foundation, more than 500 Scholars from the African continent will have enrolled in the Program by 2030. This fully funded opportunity to complete a one-year Master’s degree, also involves developing transformative leadership skills and aims to contribute to climate resilience and sustainable futures in Africa.

We caught up with Itumeleng and her peers Godbless James and Chibuzor Ndubisi to find out more about their research backgrounds, their motivations for pursuing a Master’s at Cambridge, and their thoughts on the ‘Cambridge experience’ and future aspirations.

Itumeleng Sebata, MPhil in Industrial Systems, Manufacture and Management (ISMM)

Itumeleng, from Zimbabwe, has a background in electronic engineering and a passion for solving real-world problems. She first got to explore this passion during her A Levels, when she began learning coding and programming, and gained a deeper understanding of how computing works.

Itumeleng (Lucy Cavendish College), who is studying an MPhil at the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM), part of the Department of Engineering, was drawn to the MPhil in ISMM because of the company visits, projects and hands-on sessions it offers.

“Through ISMM, I’ve gained insights into the importance of effective collaboration among people, facilities and processes in order to improve business efficiency,” she said.

“Some of the manufacturing disciplines I’m currently covering include processes, operations, and supply chain management; data modelling and simulation; and new business development in the context of industrial systems across a range of business and/or industrial sectors.

“My journey so far has been fulfilling, with seminars and company visits providing invaluable insights into diverse manufacturing industries across the UK.

“These experiences have broadened my understanding of manufacturing, emphasising its significance beyond factory operations. It entails a comprehensive understanding of markets, product and process design, intricate supply chain management, distribution networks, and related services worldwide.

“I’m eager to apply the diverse industrial experience and knowledge gained through this MPhil in my future endeavours. My goal is to contribute to the advancement of industrial practices and continuous improvement back home (e.g. in the food industry or cement industry) by implementing new technologies and scaling up operations, tailored to our local context.”

We asked Itumeleng what the best part of her Cambridge experience has been so far?

She replied: “The incredible variety that Cambridge offers, both academically and personally. It’s been eye-opening to see the world from so many different angles. These experiences have not only enhanced my academic understanding but have also equipped me with practical knowledge and skills that I believe will be invaluable in my future endeavours.

“My academic journey at Cambridge has not just been about learning from books, it's been about engaging with real-world experiences and different ways of thinking. This inclusive culture that Cambridge has, fosters collaboration and mutual respect, creating a dynamic learning environment where everyone has something valuable to contribute.”

Godbless James, MPhil in Machine Learning and Machine Intelligence

Godbless, from Nigeria, has a background in technology consultancy, computer science and informatics. His focus is on building skills and expertise in machine learning, speech and language processing, computer vision and robotics for the research, design and development of state-of-the-art intelligent systems to help solve practical problems for the benefit of society.

Godbless (Homerton College) was drawn to the MPhil in Machine Learning and Machine Intelligence because of his desire to develop intelligent systems that can address practical challenges and contribute to societal improvement.

“Having witnessed the destructive effects of climate change in my riverine community, and drawing from my experience in machine learning, I envisage, for example, using AI to optimise carbon capture and storage systems to combat carbon emissions,” he said. “This would address the excessive heat experienced in communities around the Niger Delta, caused by gas flaring and oil spills.”

He added: “Additionally, given the busy and persistent traffic situation in a city like Lagos, where I lived, I could also explore the development of intelligent transportation systems to enhance urban mobility. This would involve leveraging computer vision and data analytics for safer and more efficient traffic management.”

We asked Godbless to share his thoughts on the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

He replied: “The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is at the forefront of nurturing the next generation of transformative leaders. I highly recommend this programme to others seeking a holistic and impactful scholarship experience. To prospective candidates, I would emphasise that being in the programme is a transformative experience that not only supports your academic journey, but also equips you with the skills and networks needed for success in your chosen field.

“On a personal level, the vibrant community at Cambridge has provided opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration, and has enabled me to forge connections and make lifelong friendships.”

Chibuzor Ndubisi, MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development (ESD)

Chibuzor, from Nigeria, has ambitions to drive change in Africa’s energy sector and confront a pressing challenge facing his community – the lack of stable energy.

Chibuzor (Magdalene College) was drawn to the MPhil in ESD because he aims to commercialise breakthrough energy innovations for African communities, upscale climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, and transform industries dependent on energy – each with a sustainability-focused and human-centred philosophy.

“I grew up watching my parents struggle unduly to ensure that we had power in our home,” he said. “I’d seen businesses crumble, plans fail, and dreams die because of Nigeria’s energy crisis. I’d read and heard reports of children developing chronic illnesses due to breathing in fumes from generators.”

He added: “As I advanced in education, I came to better understand how critical energy was to Nigeria’s development and how we were being stifled in its lack thereof. Today, this energy challenge has become interwoven with the global mandate for sustainable development. But although this increases the complexity of the problem, it also makes me more excited than I’ve ever been as an engineer. My mission is to address what I’ve termed Africa’s ‘energy paradox’: transitioning to clean energy technologies, while expanding energy access on the continent. The MPhil in ESD has so far proven to be a transformative step on this journey.”

We asked Chibuzor to describe what it is like being a Mastercard Foundation Scholar.

He replied: “Being a Mastercard Foundation Scholar in Cambridge provides access to distinguished people in all spheres of life, a portfolio boost due to the University’s reputation, and most importantly, a thriving community of Africans. To say that the Mastercard Foundation has made Cambridge a ‘home away from home’ for us would be an understatement.

“I can’t put into words how great it feels to be in such a place as Cambridge. Even more impressive than its intellectual density per unit area (I’m an engineer, don’t blame me!), the University overflows with diversity in its makeup. I’ve met people from countries large and small, heard stories historic and contemporary, and I’ve learned something from everyone I’ve met and tried to offer something of myself in return. This means everything to me.”