The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU Celebrates program graduates

For over a decade, Arizona State University has worked in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation to extend quality education opportunities to high-achieving African students confronting obstacles in pursuing higher education.

In the fall of 2022, 10 Mastercard Foundation Scholars began their Business Analytics and Information Technology studies through ASU Online. Through this unique partnership, Mastercard Foundation Scholars were able to earn a bachelor’s degree from Ashesi University and a graduate degree from ASU within a five-year timeframe. 

This spring, the Program will mark the graduation of five Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the last cohort.

Oliver Ngong, Hassan Alhassan, Precious Njeck, Joshua Owusu Ansah, and Samantha Mavunga will graduate with a Master’s degree in Information Technology offered by Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, ASU has graduated more than 300 Scholars. Leveraging the online modality and partners, such as Ashesi University, has allowed for scaling access to education and accelerating impact on the African continent. 

“Our partnership with Ashesi University has allowed these graduating Mastercard Foundation Scholars to obtain a high-quality degree from Arizona State University while living in Ghana. This is further evidence of the potential for online learning to reach students in their existing localities,” said Yeukai Mlambo, executive director, Africa Initiatives, and interim director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU.

A unique element of their academic journey was the opportunity to participate in a summer immersion experience in Tempe, Arizona. 

The five participated in the EngagEd REU program, an immersive eight-week research experience at ASU. Distinguished by its distinctive approach, this program pairs students with mentors from various esteemed institutions nationwide, offering a dynamic learning environment.

“In addition to their technical skills in information technology, the graduates have demonstrated skills through their online learning experiences such as time management, self-directed learning, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication, and many other proficiencies that will ensure they excel in the world of work that increasingly requires globally aware and digitally adept individuals,” Mlambo said. “We are extremely proud of our Mastercard Foundation Scholars.” 

During this intensive period at ASU's Tempe campus, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars engaged in collaborative endeavors with peers from across the U.S., facilitating a vibrant exchange of insights and ideas. 

Precious Njeck is one of the students in the graduating cohort who was able to participate in these opportunities and embed herself in the Arizona community.

“My summer immersion experience was an academic research journey enriched by the exceptional dedication of professors committed to my growth,” she said. “Altogether, this summer immersion experience was a memorable blend of academic enrichment and cultural exploration, with an unforgettable experience of Arizona’s scorching summer temperatures.”

We spoke to the graduates about their time at ASU, online learning, and post-graduation aspirations. Here are their stories.

Hassan Alhassan, hailing from a farming family of 15 in Tamale, Ghana, is a firm believer in the transformative power of education and technology.

Driven by the conviction that everyone deserves a chance to dream, despite obstacles, he launched CodeTheChange. This initiative has empowered over 50 underprivileged Ghanaian high school students by teaching them technology and problem-solving skills.

“My passion lies in problem-solving, technology, and everything related to data. I believe data is the ultimate source of truth and the key to our future,” Alhassan said.

His experience at ASU Online has been influenced by various mentors, leading to significant shifts in his perspective. 

Initially focused on practical applications, his view expanded to appreciate the value of research in computer science for its capacity to develop systems that are not only technically sound but are also inclusive and effective for diverse user needs.

“During this program, I gained a newfound appreciation for research in computer science and its transformative potential for systems and users alike,” he said. “I realized that research plays a crucial role in designing systems that are not only technically robust but are also inclusive and capable of meeting the diverse needs of users. It became clear to me that research is the key to unlocking innovation and creating impactful solutions.”

Joshua Owusu Ansah, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at Arizona State University, is deeply committed to making a positive impact on community well-being, particularly by fostering innovation among the youth in Ghana and across Africa.

While at ASU, Ansah has recognized the significant influence that faculty, staff, and the Mastercard Foundation team have had on his academic and personal growth. 

"In a world where connections often fade and support can be fleeting, a number of remarkable individuals stood as unwavering pillars throughout my journey at ASU," he said.

Ansah organized a month-long coding boot camp, supported by the Clinton Global Initiative and the Ford Foundation, to inspire local youth by demonstrating the vast opportunities available within technology. This initiative has empowered young people to shape their futures and contribute to their communities' development.

Ansah believes in the transformative power of education.

“By improving access to education, I could equip a new generation with the skills and knowledge to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development within their communities, perpetuating a cycle of empowerment and progress," he said.

At ASU, Ansah has been an active participant in the academic community. He served on the Graduate College Student Advisory Board, reviewed Scholar Nominations for the Outstanding Faculty Mentor Awards, and presented research on adaptability among engineering students at the CONVERGE conference. These contributions underscore his commitment to enhancing education and professional development in his field.

Samantha Mavunga, originally from Zimbabwe, completed a Master's in Information Technology at ASU Online as part of the International Accelerated Degree Program (IADP). She credits the program's online learning environment with enhancing her self-management and communication skills, highlighting the support from university staff as pivotal to her success.

A significant factor in her achievement was the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which alleviated financial pressures and opened networking avenues with peers, mentors, and alums. This network has been crucial for both her professional and personal growth.

“The university's responsiveness and support services like counseling, academic tutoring, and library access significantly enriched my learning experience,” Mavunga said. 

Engaging in extracurricular activities, including Venture Devils and the Office of Inclusive Excellence, Mavunga expanded her understanding of community involvement and leadership.

She reflects on a key accomplishment: Securing Venture Devils funding for her business, Toda Healthy Beverages, a significant milestone and advanced her business aspirations.

Looking ahead, Mavunga aims to further her expertise with a Project Management Certification and possibly a PhD while continuing to develop Toda Healthy Beverages. Committed to societal improvement, she is mainly focused on enhancing education for underprivileged children, leveraging her skills and experiences for a broader impact.

Oliver Ngong is a Technical Program Manager with a keen focus on developing cybersecurity tools. He actively participates in community service, working with organizations such as Hope for Cameroon and teaching Design Thinking to Cameroonian students.

He acknowledges the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for significantly contributing to his educational and professional development by providing financial aid, mentorship, and networking opportunities. 

This support enabled Ngong to share his insights on a global platform and launch a tech startup aimed at supporting African students. During his studies, he engaged in an eight-week research program in the summer of 2023, a turning point that broadened his research skills and network.

His time at ASU Online has transformed his research approach, and he has appreciated its significance and methodology more deeply due to the comprehensive resources and guidance available.

"A key aspect of the Program was connecting with industry professionals and mentors, who offered invaluable guidance for my career path," Ngong said. "This Program was pivotal, enhancing my research capabilities and introducing me to key figures who have greatly influenced my career.”

Precious Njeck, an IT professional with expertise in cybersecurity and data science, has a profound dedication to her community. 

This dedication not only influences her academic and career trajectory but also inspires her extensive volunteer work. She has supported fellow students academically and has been involved with Hope for Cameroon, an organization aiding those affected by the country’s political turmoil since 2016.

“My community has played a pivotal role in shaping my path, and I am committed to giving back through volunteering,” Njeck said. 

Driven by the belief that educational opportunities should be universally accessible, Njeck aims to revolutionize Cameroon's education system, prioritizing creativity and innovation over simple memorization.

She envisions “a world where education is available to everyone, regardless of their situation.”

Her participation in a summer immersion program at ASU stands out among her experiences. There, she collaborated with ASU faculty and presented her work at the CONVERGE conference in Maryland.

Njeck is furthering her education at ASU as a graduate research assistant, steadily progressing toward her PhD in Engineering Education Systems and Design.