By: Robert
Kwaku Annor
Airtel Africa Foundation has
launched a five-year, fully funded scholarship programme that will provide 50
technology scholarships to academically gifted students from vulnerable
backgrounds at the University of Zambia (UNZA) and Copperbelt University (CBU).
The Airtel Africa Fellowship
will award 25 scholarships to students at each university and is designed to
support young Zambians pursuing technology-related programmes while equipping
them with the skills needed to participate in the digital economy.
Under the programme,
selected students will receive fully paid tuition for the five-year duration of
their studies, accommodation, a new laptop, monthly data connectivity and a
monthly allowance.
The scholarship will also
provide internship placements to help students gain practical experience and
improve their readiness for the job market.
Airtel said the fellowship
forms part of its broader commitment to education and digital inclusion,
describing the initiative as a sustained effort to create opportunities for
young people rather than a one-off intervention.
Speaking at the launch,
Airtel Zambia Managing Director Hussam Baday said the company’s commitment
extends beyond telecommunications and connectivity.
“We are not here simply to
connect people; we are here to impact livelihoods, and there is no better way
to create lasting impact than by investing in the education of our citizens,”
Baday said.
The launch was attended by
the Permanent Secretary in Zambia’s Ministry of Education, represented by
Director of University Education Brian Makufele, who commended Airtel for its
continued contribution to education.
Makufele also recognised
Airtel’s broader activities and contribution beyond the education sector.
The event was also attended
by UNZA Vice Chancellor Professor Mundia Muya and Copperbelt University Vice
Chancellor Professor Imasiku Nyambe.
The Airtel Africa Fellowship
is expected to provide beneficiaries with both academic and practical support
throughout their five-year programmes, combining financial assistance with
access to technology, connectivity and workplace exposure.
Applications for the
scholarships are now open, with prospective first-year students enrolled in
eligible programmes at UNZA and CBU encouraged to apply through the designated
application platform.
