Education and Transitions | Mastercard Foundation

Education and Transitions

Schoolchildren working around a desk.

We facilitate young people’s pathways from education to dignified and fulfilling work and entrepreneurship.

Our partnerships and programs enable young people to transition into the workforce by supporting skill development, employment readiness, and entrepreneurial business ventures.

Mastercard Foundation Fund for Alumni Start-ups in Transitions (FAST)

This fund helps young entrepreneurs to establish or grow their businesses by providing access to funding and structured support, including mentorship by experts, business advisory services and workshops, and networking opportunities.

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Mastercard Foundation Associates Program

This program provides young people with one year of high-quality work experience, equipping them with the competencies and capabilities required to thrive in their careers. The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program is designed to: build job-ready skills aligned with labour market needs; build strong private sector partnerships aligned with market needs; reach underserved youth populations through inclusive design; support young people's transitions into jobs and entrepreneurship.

Cheveux Organique, Banana Hair products, made from banana leaf, in Uganda, 2024.

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Educating Girls Generates Economic Transformation in Africa

Africa’s young, large workforce presents an unprecedented opportunity to generate economic transformation. But it hinges on a critical factor: harnessing the full energy and talents of young women and girls across Africa.

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