Mastercard Foundation has ended its $45 million program with Michigan State University, citing that the organization has "lost confidence" in its partnership with the university following several recent reports of misconduct.
The programs included the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the Agrifood Youth Opportunity Lab.
Current students benefiting from these programs will continue to receive scholarship funding through the end of their program.
Michigan State University released an announcement in February outlining details of the dissolved partnership.
"Michigan State University has just been notified that, after careful thought and consideration, the Mastercard Foundation has decided to terminate their agreements with MSU," the announcement read.
The institution added: "The Mastercard Foundation is exercising its contractual right to terminate the agreements without cause, effective March 21, 2018. The Foundation acknowledged this decision was difficult and they expressed their ongoing respect for all people engaged in both programs. MSU is greatly appreciative of our partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and hopes to continue a relationship with them in the future."
The MasterCard Foundation also released a statement:
The Mastercard Foundation is dedicated to providing a safe environment for young people who participate in our programs. Due to extensive media reporting about issues involving Michigan State University (MSU), the Foundation has lost confidence in our partnership with the university. The Foundation will continue to support all current Mastercard Foundation Scholars at MSU. We will continue to cover the costs of their education, support services, and leadership development that are part of a comprehensive package offered by the Scholars Program. This support will continue until these Scholars graduate. We will work to support their safety and well-being. The Foundation will also honour any expenses incurred to date under the MSU Agriculture Youth Opportunity Lab projects as part of the termination of this partnership.
Students interested in enrolling in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2018-2019 school year are encouraged to visit our website for a full list of partner universities involved in the Program. The Foundation collaborates with 27 educational partners in the Scholars Program, including 25 placing Scholars at tertiary institutions. We have committed to supporting the education of nearly 35,000 talented, young African leaders, including 9,000 at the university level.
Sincerely,
The Mastercard Foundation
