Mastercard Foundation Internship 2026 for Africans (Apply Now)

The Mastercard Foundation is inviting applications from ambitious, career-driven, and diligent young Africans for its 2026 Internship Program.

The program provides 11 months of hands-on experience, professional exposure, and mentorship to young people as they transition into the professional world of work. It contributes to the Foundation’s Young Africa Works strategy, equipping interns with skills for employment or entrepreneurship.

When is the deadline for applications?

The deadline is September 7, 2025 (11:59 PM EAT).

🏆 Describe the award to me:

The Mastercard Foundation Internship 2026 is a fully paid professional internship program designed to provide recent African graduates with hands-on work experience, mentorship, and career development opportunities across various departments of the Foundation.

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📚 Which fields qualify?

Opportunities are available in diverse areas, including:

• Finance & Program Finance
• Programs (Development Studies, Agriculture, Social Sciences, etc.)
• Impact, Research & Learning (Economics, Statistics, Data Analysis, etc.)
• Digital Data & Technology (Computer Science, IT, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, etc.)
• Legal & Compliance (Law, International Relations, Justice, etc.)
• Public Affairs & Communications (Media, Journalism, Social Media, etc.)
• Office of the CEO
• People & Culture

📝 The type:

Internship (Full-time, 11 months, non-renewable).

👥 Who is eligible to apply?

• Recent graduates with 0–4 years of work experience.
• Must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
• Actively engaged in community service or extracurricular activities.
• Available full-time (not enrolled in another program during the internship).
• If a Mastercard Foundation Scholar Alumni → must not be enrolled in study or another Foundation program.

🔎 How Do They Choose Applicants?

Applicants are assessed based on:

• Academic performance and leadership potential.
• Demonstrated interest in youth development, social impact, and inclusive growth in Africa.
• Problem-solving, research, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in diverse, multicultural, and collaborative environments.

🌍 Which nations are qualified?

Applicants must be eligible to work in one of the seven countries where Mastercard Foundation operates:
Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and Uganda.

📌 Where will the prize be accepted?

Internship placements will be at Mastercard Foundation offices in the eligible African countries listed above.

🔢 How Many Honors?

The Foundation has multiple internship slots across different departments and countries.

🎁 What Advantage Does the Award Offer?

• Competitive monthly salary.
• Mentorship and coaching from senior professionals.
• Access to career development programs & e-learning platforms.
• Hands-on experience in programs, operations, and partnerships.
• Professional networking opportunities with leading institutions, private sector partners, and government stakeholders.
• Enhanced readiness for employment or entrepreneurship.

⏳ What’s the Duration of the Award?

11 months (January 2026 – December 2026), non-renewable.

🖊️ How do I Apply?

Interested and qualified applicants should submit their applications through the official Mastercard Foundation careers portal.

👉 Click Here to Apply