RUFORUM/Mastercard TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships 2026/2027 Open for Young Africans
Young Africans passionate about agriculture have a big chance ahead. The RUFORUM/Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships 2026/2027 are now open. These fully funded awards support students from across Africa to build skills in agriculture, agribusiness, and entrepreneurship.
Overview of the Scholarships
The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) runs this program with the Mastercard Foundation. It targets young people who want to transform farming and food systems in Africa. Both women and men can apply, but the program strongly urges females, refugees, people displaced by conflict, and those with disabilities to submit applications. The goal is to train leaders who will work in agricultural value chains and help their communities grow.
Selection Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet clear requirements. First, you need to be a national of an African country. The program favors those who are economically disadvantaged, from marginalized groups, or from conflict areas, especially in Uganda. Age limits apply: under 30 for undergraduate studies and under 35 for master’s programs at the time of application.
Other key points include meeting the admission rules of the chosen partner university. Show a real interest in agriculture, agribusiness, or entrepreneurship. Prove leadership skills and a strong promise to work in agriculture after studies. A deep commitment to community change is also essential. Female applicants get special encouragement.
Partner Universities
Applications go through one of these partner schools. Each has its own call for applications with details:
- Université Mohammed VI Polytechnique
- Gulu University
- Egerton University
- Africa University
- University of the Free State
- Malawi University of Science and Technology
- University of Eldoret
- Uganda Martyrs University
- University of Port Harcourt
- University of Cape Coast
- University of Bamenda
- National University of Agriculture (English and French versions available)
Check the specific PDF for each university to learn program options and local rules.
Scholarship Benefits
This is a full-board package that covers everything needed for success. It pays tuition fees and research costs. You get funds for workshops, conferences, and a laptop. Living expenses include a stipend and hostel stay. The award also supports internships, community work, field attachments, and entrepreneurship training. No worries about money holding you back.
Application Details
The deadline is May 1, 2026. Start by reviewing the official calls from the partner universities. Prepare documents that highlight your background, interests, and leadership. Apply directly through the chosen university’s process. For full details, visit the official RUFORUM/Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships webpage. Act fast to meet the date and boost your community’s future through agriculture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the RUFORUM/Mastercard Foundation TAGDev 2.0 Scholarships?
African nationals under 30 for undergraduate or under 35 for master’s programs qualify, especially women, refugees, displaced persons, those with disabilities, and people from marginalized or conflict areas.
What benefits does the scholarship provide?
It covers full tuition, research costs, living stipend, hostel stay, laptop, workshops, internships, and entrepreneurship training.
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on May 1, 2026.
How do I apply for these scholarships?
Choose a partner university, review their specific call for applications and PDFs, then submit through their process.