A decade-long partnership between the University of Gondar, Queen’s University in Canada, and the Mastercard Foundation has advanced disability inclusion and higher education access in Ethiopia.
The collaboration was highlighted this week during a forum marking the program’s 10th anniversary. More than 450 Mastercard Foundation Scholars have completed undergraduate and graduate studies at the university.
More than 60 faculty members have pursued advanced studies at Queen’s University in Canada. In 2021 the partnership helped launch Ethiopia’s first Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy program.
Alumnus Zelalem Dessalegn, founder of the Grand Assistive Technology Center, said: “The Mastercard Foundation program has given me more than just a degree; it created a platform for me to be a voice for others like myself.” More than 175 scholars have been trained in Community-Based Rehabilitation.
University of Gondar President Asrat Atsedeweyn said the collaboration has built “a sustainable and inclusive legacy that will serve Ethiopia’s future generations.” The partnership has produced more than 47 international research articles.
