EBS Supports Rural Women Leaders through the Graça Machel Scholarship Programme
Edinburgh Business School is partnering with the prestigious Graça Machel Scholarship Programme by waiving fees for two rural African women to study MBAs via distance learning. Supported by and named after the international stateswoman and wife of Nelson Mandela, the Graça Machel Scholarship Programme supports rural women who have had significant developmental impact at local level, to enable them to increase their skills and make an even more powerful contribution. Mrs Machel recognises that her own achievements would not have been possible without access to scholarships given her disadvantaged upbringing in remote rural Mozambique.
“Education can mean the difference between a life of grinding poverty and the potential for a full and secure one.”
By studying for the MBA the two women will have all the benefits of attending one of the world’s leading universities while applying their learning to the African context. In addition Mrs Machel is committed to ensuring they have access to influential networks, life long learning, and mentoring throughout their careers to ensure they have the maximum possible impact.
Introducing the Graça Machel Scholars
Martha Sambani, Malawi
Martha is an Administrative Officer at the University of Malawi’s Polytechnic, and has high hopes for improving the institution’s systems in order to offer a better educational experience to students. One of the key challenges the university faces is maintaining transparency given the shortage of staff with adequate ICT and financial skills.
“Our university lacks proper administrative and financial management skills due to lack of qualified personnel. Above all, I want to see a change in terms of university financial performance and accountability and this will be my greatest and first assignment to accomplish as soon as I qualify.”
Martha’s determination and commitment to be part of her university’s development are strongly demonstrated by the fact that all her academic qualifications, including a diploma and a BA, have been achieved whilst working.
Samekeliso Khumalo, Zimbabwe
Samekeliso works as a Finance Manager at the Bulawayo Agenda Trust, an organisation promoting public participation in democracy in Zimbabwe. The Trust’s work aims to ensure widespread understanding of the rights enshrined by democracy in order that people are prepared to take united action when these come under threat.
Her goal in undertaking this MBA is to help fellow Zimbabweans access economic opportunities which will enable them to be part of their country’s reconstruction over the coming years.
“As part of the economic recovery of this country, I am looking forward to establishing institutions of learning that will help men and women in the region attain skills and knowledge in the commercial sector. These courses must equip people with skills to start sustainable projects of their own. After graduating with an MBA, I also intend to help Bulawayo Agenda Trust grow into a bigger institute where I will be leading on the desk of gender and economic development.”
The Graça Machel Scholarships are managed by Canon Collins Trust
(registered charity no. 1102028)
