The Mastercard Foundation, in collaboration with Songhai, is calling on young Nigerians to apply for the Songhai/Mastercard Integrated Agriculture Scholarship. This program is part of the Youth Agricultural Empowerment Scheme aimed at empowering young Nigerians with practical skills and knowledge in modern farming techniques, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agricultural practices.
The Songhai/Mastercard Youth Agricultural Empowerment Scheme is set to train and seed over 3,000 young Nigerians in agriculture, with a significant focus on empowering young women (70% of participants) within the next three years. The goal is to train these youth as modern farm managers/technicians and agro-entrepreneurs who will drive the future of sustainable farming across the country.
This innovative partnership is now announcing the first in a series of three-month training programs that will cover essential areas in agro-business and offer hands-on experience in modern farming methods. The training will provide participants with an opportunity to grow their skills in agriculture while creating youth agricultural opportunities that contribute to socioeconomic development in Nigeria.
Application is now open for this 3-month Boot Camp, which will focus on the following key agricultural branches:
- Crop Production
- Animal Husbandry
- Aquaculture
- Food Processing
Each participant will be fully equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to start or scale their own agricultural ventures, particularly in sustainable farming practices. Additionally, they will be exposed to business growth kits, market linkages, and mentorship opportunities that will support their ventures after the program.
Program Benefits
Participants in the Songhai/Mastercard Foundation Agricultural Bootcamp will enjoy the following benefits:
- Free Accommodation: Comfortable housing during the training period.
- Free Feeding: Daily meals provided.
- Free Tuition: No cost for the training itself.
- Free Training Materials: All essential materials and resources for training will be provided.
- Free Business Growth Kit: Equip yourself with tools to grow your agro-venture after the bootcamp.
- Market Linkages and Access: Access to markets, partnerships, and potential buyers for your agricultural products.
- Mentorship Pool: Guidance and mentorship from experienced agricultural professionals and entrepreneurs.
- Data Sharing: Receive information on production, market trends, and insights that will help you succeed as an agro-entrepreneur.
This program is designed to help you kickstart or scale your agricultural career, providing the foundation for success in agriculture entrepreneurship and sustainable farming.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Songhai/Mastercard Agricultural Training Bootcamp, participants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Range: 18-35 years of age.
- Passion for Agriculture: Must have already started an agricultural venture or be passionate about starting one in the near future.
- Geographical Requirements: Participants must be able to travel to Ebony or Owerri for the training.
- Support Structure: A solid support system is required to ensure successful implementation of what is learned post-training.
- Commitment: You must be committed to starting or scaling an agricultural venture after completing the training.
The program is open to all young Nigerians who meet these requirements and are eager to make a difference in the agricultural sector by becoming agro-entrepreneurs.
This is a fantastic opportunity for young Nigerians interested in pursuing careers as agro-entrepreneurs or modern farm managers. The program offers extensive training in agriculture and sustainable farming, providing the necessary tools to succeed in the agro-business industry.
By participating in this agriculture scholarship program, you will gain valuable skills, access to mentorship, and market opportunities that will equip you to start or scale your own agricultural venture. Don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity to become a leader in the Nigerian agricultural sector!
Deadline
The deadline for applying has not been specified, but it is recommended to apply early to secure a spot in this highly competitive program.
How to Apply
To apply for the Songhai/Mastercard Integrated Agricultural Bootcamp, visit the official application page HERE
