Are you a young graduate looking for practical work experience and a pathway into meaningful employment? The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026, implemented in partnership with Jobberman, offers eligible young professionals an opportunity to gain 12 months of paid work experience while developing valuable career and workplace skills.
The 2026 programme is open to eligible applicants in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia, with applications running from 21 September to 21 October 2026.
What Is the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program?
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program is designed to help young people transition from education into meaningful work. Associates receive practical workplace experience, employability and professional-development support, mentorship and exposure to participating employers.
The Mastercard Foundation says the broader Associates Program provides 12-month paid work placements across Africa and has supported more than 1,000 Associates in 22 countries since 2023.
For the current West African recruitment, Jobberman is the placement partner for the Anglophone West Africa region, including Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia.
Who Can Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026?
The 2026 opportunity is targeted at recent graduates and early-career professionals. Applicants should generally meet the following requirements:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have a tertiary education qualification
- Have 0–2 years of work experience
- Be resident in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone or The Gambia
- Be unemployed or underemployed
- Meet applicable national-service requirements where relevant
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumni are also encouraged to apply. The programme places particular emphasis on inclusion and encourages participation from young women, persons with disabilities, refugees and internally displaced persons.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026
1. Check Your Eligibility
Before starting your application, confirm that you meet the age, education, experience and residency requirements. This can save you time and help you avoid submitting an application that does not meet the programme criteria.
2. Visit the Jobberman Application Platform
The 2026 West African recruitment is being administered by Jobberman. Applicants should use the official programme application process rather than links shared by unofficial individuals or pages.
You can also explore available opportunities and roles before submitting your application. Jobberman’s programme information confirms that Associates are trained and subsequently matched with participating employers based on their skills and career interests.
3. Prepare Your Documents
Have an updated CV, valid government-issued identification showing your date of birth, and your national-service certificate or exemption document where applicable. Evidence of participation in a Mastercard Foundation programme may also be relevant if you are an alumnus.
4. Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate information about your education, professional experience, skills and background. Review every section carefully before submitting because completing the application does not automatically guarantee selection. Applications go through screening and vetting.
5. Apply for Suitable Roles
Applicants can explore available Associate opportunities and apply for roles that match their qualifications and career interests. Tailor your CV to each relevant position and clearly demonstrate the skills you can bring to the role.
What Happens After You Apply?
Successful applicants go through the programme’s selection process before placement. The Associates Program includes professional development, mentorship and workplace experience, with Associates eventually placed with participating employers for a 12-month period.
Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026 Deadline
The application deadline for the current 2026 recruitment is 21 October 2026. Eligible applicants should avoid waiting until the final day to complete their applications.
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Program 2026 with Jobberman is an opportunity for young African graduates to gain practical experience, strengthen their employability and build professional networks. If you meet the requirements, prepare your documents early and submit your application through the official Jobberman process before the deadline.
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Written by Favour Akinyeye
An 88Lately Staff Writer
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