FAWEZA and Mastercard Foundation Award 200 Vulnerable Youths with STEM Bursaries in Zambia
The Forum for African Women Educationalists of Zambia (FAWEZA), in collaboration with FAWE Africa and the Mastercard Foundation, has officially announced the selection of 200 vulnerable youths for the 2025 Mastercard Foundation Bursary Support Programme – Cohort 2.
The beneficiaries, who will pursue STEM-related courses in various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, represent a major step in promoting inclusive and gender-responsive education in Zambia.
This year’s cohort includes 160 females and 40 males, of whom 11 are persons with disabilities and 15 are refugees. The selection reflects FAWEZA’s long-standing commitment to supporting marginalized communities and ensuring that young people from underrepresented backgrounds can access and complete tertiary education.
In an official statement, FAWEZA Executive Director Mr. Costern Kanchele congratulated the selected students and urged them to fully embrace the opportunity. “This bursary is more than financial support; it’s a pathway to transformation, academic success, and national impact,” he said.
The bursary support package covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, learning materials (books and digital tools), a monthly upkeep allowance, psychosocial support, and mentorship.
Students will also benefit from life skills training through TUSEME Clubs (Speak Out) and career development support, all designed to ensure academic retention, personal growth, and a successful transition into the workforce.
FAWEZA emphasized that this initiative aligns with Zambia’s broader education goals as outlined in national frameworks such as the National Education Policy (1996), Vision 2030, and the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).
“This programme represents FAWEZA’s ongoing mission to remove systemic barriers to education and empower girls and vulnerable learners to realize their full potential,” Mr. Kanchele added.
As FAWEZA celebrates over 20 years of championing education for disadvantaged groups, the organization reaffirmed its commitment to working toward a more equitable and inclusive Zambia, where no child is left behind.
