On February 3, 2025, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar hosted a consultative meeting with key stakeholders to discuss ongoing efforts and challenges related to the program.
The event was attended by Dr. Kassahun Tegegne, Academic Vice President of the University of Gondar and Overseer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, Dr. Molalign Belay, Co-Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, program managers and staff, members of the Scholars’ Council, college deans, service providers, and invited guests.
Dr. Molalign Belay began the meeting with a welcome speech, emphasizing the University of Gondar’s significant role in serving the largest population of students with disabilities in Ethiopia. And he highlighted the importance of providing services that meet the unique needs of these students to ensure their success.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Kassahun outlined the meeting’s purpose: to explore ways to enhance the quality of services provided to Mastercard Foundation Scholars. Dr. Kassahun stressed the need to treat Scholars with dignity and to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the job market.
Dr. Nega Mihret, Part A Manager, then presented an overview of the Program’s activities, achievements, challenges, and concerns raised by Scholars regarding university services. He shared issues raised by Scholars a week before the meeting, including requests for improvements in campus security, cafeteria services, electricity, healthcare, guidance and counseling, and classroom accessibility. He also discussed challenges such as misunderstandings between Scholars and service providers, changes in education policies, and fluctuating academic schedules.
Dr. Bekele Adane, Faculty Development Coordinator of the Program and Queen’s University alumnus, provided valuable insights on inclusive service provision and reasonable accommodation, particularly focusing on accessibility and the barriers students with disabilities may face on campus.
After the presentations, Mastercard Foundation Alumni Roza Abraham, Berhanemeskel, and Shambel shared their personal experiences and the challenges they overcame in their journey to becoming faculty members. Abrak Amare, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, also shared his own experiences and journey.
Following these presentations, members of the Scholars’ Council and other Scholars asked questions, which were addressed by the service providers.
In closing, Dr. Molalign and Dr. Kassahun reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with service providers to address the challenges raised by both Scholars and service providers, and they emphasized their shared goal of continuously improving services and supporting the success of the Scholars.
