20 Ugandan Students Win Shs 3.85bn Airtel Africa Foundation Tech Fellowship to Boost STEM Careers
A fresh cohort of 20 Ugandan students has secured the Shs 3.85 billion Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, a major education initiative designed to support talented but financially disadvantaged learners pursuing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) courses.
The programme, implemented by the Airtel Africa Foundation, fully covers tuition and other academic-related expenses, allowing beneficiaries to focus on their studies and professional aspirations without financial pressure.
Among the scholars is Edgar Baluku, a Computer Science student at Uganda Christian University, who said the sponsorship has lifted a heavy financial burden that once threatened his education. At ISBAT University, Jordan Akatuha Byaruhanga is studying Networking and Cybersecurity, aiming to strengthen digital safety systems, while Khautharah Kanyange described the fellowship as a turning point after years of financial struggle.
Several beneficiaries are from Makerere University, including Isaac Mubiru, Juma Matovu Kikonyogo and Patricia Kisakye, all pursuing Software Engineering. Others from the institution — Nicholas Ojambo, Rishaliz Nakidde, Elisha Alvin Bifandhuba, Jasifa Ssegawa and Kalinzi Nassuna Rashida — are focused on using technology to solve real-world challenges.
From Mbarara University of Science and Technology, selected fellows include Melissa Atugonza Ateenyi, Gloria Nyakato and Michael Mukiibi Kirinnya, whose interests range from digital mental health solutions to community-based technological innovation.
At Kyambogo University, Gilbert Kizito, an Information Technology and Computing student, credited the opportunity to his parents’ sacrifices, while Esther Kisakye Faith described the fellowship as a pathway to achieving her long-term goals.
Additional fellows are expected to drive innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, health technology, cybersecurity and digital inclusion.
Speaking on the initiative, Soumendra Sahu, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Uganda, said the programme underscores the company’s commitment to equipping young Africans with the skills required for sustainable social and economic transformation.
The fellowship is part of a broader effort to nurture a new generation of innovators poised to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s growing digital economy and Africa’s technological advancement.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.