---
titre: "Yakubu Bitrus, a Nigerian refugee in Cameroon, becomes a Mastercard Foundation Scholar"
chemin: "/blog/yakubu-bitrus-mastercard-foundation-scholar"
type: article
format: blocs
langue: en
groupe_traduction: 01a12936-3c84-7359-b98e-dd540365ba78
description: "With BRIGHT's mentoring and a Duolingo English Test, Yakubu Bitrus, a Nigerian refugee living in Cameroon, secured a fully funded Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda."
statut: publie
libelle_de_menu: "Yakubu Bitrus, scholar"
publie_le: 2026-02-15T09:00:00+00:00
version: 7
---
- type: prose
  texte: |
    My name is Yakubu Bitrus, a Nigerian refugee living in Cameroon. After obtaining a BSc in Medical Laboratory Science, like many graduates, I was determined to further my education by pursuing a Master's degree. However, financial constraints became a major barrier.

    From 2023, I actively searched and applied for several scholarships. Due to a lack of access to accurate information, the absence of an English proficiency certificate and limited awareness of refugee-focused opportunities, I was unable to secure admission or funding.

    Everything changed in early 2025, when I was introduced to BRIGHT. Through BRIGHT, I gained access to:

    - scholarship opportunities where I had a competitive advantage as a refugee;
    - the opportunity to obtain an English proficiency certificate, the Duolingo English Test;
    - continuous mentorship and guidance throughout the application process.

    With these opportunities, my determination and the support of mentors, I secured a fully funded Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), in Rwanda, where I will be studying for an MSc in Health Professions Education.

    > Their commitment to refugee empowerment made what once seemed impossible a reality. I am proud to be a BRIGHT mentee and scholar.

    [Education Mentorship](/programmes/education/)