Airtel Zambia has launched a five-year technology scholarship programme that will provide full support to 50 students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and other technology-related studies.
The Airtel Tech Fellowship, launched in Lusaka with support from the Airtel Africa Foundation, will award 25 scholarships each to students at the University of Zambia (UNZA) and Copperbelt University (CBU).
The beneficiaries will receive support covering tuition fees, accommodation, laptops, internet connectivity, monthly allowances, mentorship and career development opportunities throughout their studies.
The company in recent years has invested over K12 million in the education sector, through the Airtel School Adoption Programme, which has led to the construction of five modern school facilities in five districts across Zambia.
Speaking at the launch, Airtel Zambia Managing Director Hussam Baday said the fellowship was more than a scholarship programme, as it was intended to ensure that talented young Zambians were not left behind in the digital economy.
“The Airtel Tech Fellowship is more than just scholarships, it is about ensuring that talented young Zambians are not left behind in the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” Baday said.
He said technology was transforming different sectors of the economy while Africa continued to experience growing demand for digital skills.
Baday highlighted that Airtel was investing in a new generation of engineers, software developers, cybersecurity experts, data scientists and technology entrepreneurs who would contribute to Zambia’s future.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr Kelvin Mambwe commended Airtel Zambia for investing in the country’s future workforce.
His speech was read on his behalf by Director of University Education Brian Makufele.
Dr Mambwe said the fellowship went beyond funding education, as it would support the development of future innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders capable of helping Zambia compete in the global digital economy.
“The Fellowship we are launching today is not merely about funding education. It is about investing in future innovators, future entrepreneurs, future leaders and future creators of solutions that will help Zambia compete in a global digital economy,” Dr Mambwe said.
And UNZA Vice Chancellor Professor Mundia Muya said the programme would help open opportunities for students who could otherwise fail to afford university education.
Professor Muya said the initiative was also aligned with the broader focus on human capital development, STEM education and increased participation of women and girls in technology.
He urged beneficiaries to approach their studies with diligence and integrity and, after graduating, use their opportunities to open doors for others.
“That’s how a scholarship becomes a legacy,” Professor Muya said.
Meanwhile, CBU Vice Chancellor Professor Imasiku Nyambe said the 25 scholarships awarded to the university would make a significant difference to students facing financial challenges.
Professor Nyambe said financial vulnerability should not be mistaken for a lack of ability, ambition or potential, noting that talent existed in every community but opportunities did not always reach every talented young person equally.
He commended Airtel Zambia for strengthening the relationship between higher education and industry and called on other corporate institutions to invest in the education of vulnerable young people.
Applications for the Airtel Tech Fellowship are now open, with eligible first-year students encouraged to apply.
Article by Karen Ngulube
