In 2013, Makerere University partnered with Mastercard Foundation to implement the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program—an initiative designed to provide talented young people who have a demonstrated commitment to service, with access to quality higher education and leadership development opportunities. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere set out to deliver 1000, need-based scholarships to this end – with a particular focus on supporting young women. It has since exceeded this target.