On November 14, 2024, the Cambridge Africa Mentorship Program (CAMP), a subcommittee of the African Society of Cambridge University (ASCU), teamed up with the Oxford University Africa Society (AfriSoc) to host an event that broke new ground: their first-ever Scholarship Webinar.
What made this webinar so special? Not only was it a resource-packed session for aspiring African scholars, but it was also the first event to bring together scholarship funders from both universities to share insights, learn from each other, and exchange ideas specifically with African applicants. This event was more than a webinar; it was a bridge-building initiative designed to unlock opportunities and foster equity in higher education.
A Historic Gathering of Scholarship Experts
The panel featured representatives from some of Cambridge and Oxford's most prestigious scholarship programs:
These experts shared invaluable insights, offering guidance on application processes, tips for crafting strong applications, and strategies to meet scholarship requirements.
Record-Breaking Engagement
The response to the event was overwhelming. Over 2,000 attendees joined the livestream, demonstrating the demand for tailored guidance for African applicants to Cambridge and Oxford. Participants listened and actively engaged, asking questions and gaining actionable advice to help them navigate the often-daunting scholarship application process.
The panelists’ advice resonated with attendees and offered clarity on how to stand out as an applicant. Many attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to hear directly from those influencing and managing these scholarship programs.
Why This Event Matters
This webinar was born from a shared recognition of the challenges African students face when applying to competitive universities like Cambridge and Oxford. The webinar was not simply about providing information, it was about leveling the playing field and creating a platform for access, opportunity, and empowerment.
Beyond its practical benefits, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration between scholarship providers, mentors, and societies like ASCU and AfriSoc. It was a step toward creating a stronger, more inclusive network to support African students.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
The success of this first Scholarship Webinar is only the beginning. To scholarship providers: ASCU urges you to join us in building a future where opportunity knows no borders. Partner with us for events that raise awareness of academic and professional opportunities, inspire prospective students, and help applicants put their best foot forward.
Through collaborations like this webinar, ASCU can continue to foster a new generation of African leaders who are equipped with the resources and knowledge to thrive at world-class institutions.
ASCU also calls on funders, alumni, and well-wishers to support the CAMP initiative financially. To fund the CAMP initiative, please email ASCU at african@cambridgesu.co.uk.
Did you miss the live webinar? Don’t worry—you can catch the recording here. Let’s keep the momentum going, and together, we can open doors to a brighter future for all.
Stay tuned for more exciting initiatives from CAMP and the African Society of Cambridge University!