At least 20 students have been awarded fully funded scholarships worth over Shs 3.85 billion to pursue science and technology degree programmes at various universities across Uganda.
The scholarships, which will commence in February 2026, target talented students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Launched recently, the Airtel Africa Foundation Tech Fellowship is designed to support African undergraduates from low-income households by enabling them to pursue degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The programme directly addresses the financial and skills barriers that limit young Africans’ participation in the digital economy.
Beneficiaries will undertake their studies at leading institutions, including Makerere University, Kyambogo University, ISBAT University, Uganda Christian University, and Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
While unveiling the selected students, Airtel Uganda Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Soumendra Sahu, expressed confidence in the scholars’ potential to drive Africa’s digital transformation.
“Today marks a new chapter in the lives of 20 remarkable young Ugandans—the recipients of the Airtel Africa Foundation Tech Fellowship. Our mission is to create a tangible and lasting impact by ensuring that no bright mind is left behind due to financial limitations. These scholars are on a path to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s and Africa’s growing digital economy,”Sahu said.
He added that the foundation is committed to empowering the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who will shape Africa’s digital future. “Technology is the language of progress, and by equipping these students with education and skills, we are investing in people and solutions that will transform communities, industries, and nations,” he noted.
The fellowship underscores the Airtel Africa Foundation’s commitment to long-term impact in digital education. With a total value of approximately Shs 3.85 billion (USD 1.024 million) spread over four years, the programme represents a significant investment in developing future-ready talent.
One of the beneficiaries, Edgar Baluku, a student at Uganda Christian University, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, describing it as a turning point in his pursuit of a career in telecommunications engineering.
“I am very excited about this opportunity. Like many students, I have been struggling to raise school fees. This scholarship gives me the chance to pursue my dreams and make my parents and the entire clan proud,” Edgar said.
