Northern Trust Corporation Increases Graduate Scholarship Support Through UBF
Northern Trust Corporation has increased the value of its graduate scholarship support to the University of Botswana Foundation (UBF) by committing a total of USD 95,552 (approximately P1.3 million) over the next five-year term. The increase raises the annual scholarship value from USD 15,000 to USD 19,110 (approximately P253,000).
The enhancement is expected to strengthen the sustainability and overall impact of the programme to enable more deserving Batswana students to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Botswana (UB).
Speaking during a courtesy visit with Northern Trust senior management, UB Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris, welcomed the delegation led by Senior Vice President, Mr Stuart Carr and Client Relationship Manager, Ms Neema Yoxall.
Professor Norris described the increased funding as a strong endorsement of the programme’s impact, noting that investment in graduate education was vital for driving high-quality research, innovation and national development. He commended Northern Trust for its long-standing commitment to UB through the Foundation.
Mr Carr said the Corporation was proud to contribute to education outcomes in Botswana, highlighting that many scholarship beneficiaries had transitioned successfully into industry with some currently employed at the Bank of Botswana. He added that Northern Trust was particularly encouraged by the programme’s employability outcomes, with 99 percent of beneficiaries absorbed into reputable organisations.
UBF Acting Director, Ms Boitumelo Molefe, welcomed the increase, noting that it would help cushion the programme against inflation and exchange-rate fluctuations while also expanding support to students with disabilities. Ms Molefe said the additional funding would ensure the continued sustainability of scholarships.
Since its inception in 2011, the Northern Trust Scholarship Programme administered by UBF has supported 26 students, contributing meaningfully to UB’s vision of advancing postgraduate training and impactful, science-driven innovation.