The unveiling of Airtel Foundation Tech Fellowship
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Uganda’s push to close its widening digital skills gap has received a major boost following a Shs3.85 billion investment by Airtel Africa Foundation to train and support high-achieving students in Information Technology and related STEM fields.
The funding is being channelled through the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, a four-year programme designed to provide a full-ride academic experience to 20 students annually from low-income households. The comprehensive scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, a laptop, monthly stipend, data plan, and structured mentorship, ensuring beneficiaries are fully equipped to excel in their studies and future careers.
In an official statement, the Foundation said the initiative reflects a long-term commitment to developing Africa’s digital talent. “Through the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, we are making a strategic investment in Uganda’s human capital by empowering talented young people with the education, skills and support they need to become future technology leaders, innovators and contributors to economic growth,” the statement read.
The fellowship attracted overwhelming interest, with more than 300 applicants vying for just 20 slots. Following a rigorous selection process conducted by Airtel’s partner Q-Sourcing Servtec, successful candidates were chosen based on academic excellence and demonstrated financial need. The students are enrolled at Makerere University, Kyambogo University, ISBAT University, Uganda Christian University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology, pursuing degrees in Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering and other ICT-related disciplines.
With an annual commitment of approximately Shs195 million for the Ugandan cohort, the programme significantly lowers the barriers to higher education, particularly in costly STEM tracks that remain out of reach for many families. By removing the financial and psychological strain associated with tuition and living expenses, the initiative allows students to focus entirely on academic performance and innovation.
The strategic timing of the investment adds to its significance. According to the World Bank, Uganda’s ICT sector contributes about 9% to national GDP and is growing at an impressive annual rate of 14.8%. However, GSMA research indicates that the sector’s full potential—estimated at an additional Shs14.6 trillion ($3.7 billion) by 2030—is constrained by a persistent shortage of skilled professionals.
As the telecom industry rapidly shifts from traditional voice and SMS services to data-driven models powered by Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity and data science, demand for advanced IT skills continues to surge. By sponsoring students in these critical fields, Airtel is directly addressing the skills gap and laying the foundation for a sustainable, locally driven digital economy.
Upon graduation, the 20 students are expected to form a “ready-to-work” workforce capable of driving innovation in fintech, agritech, cybersecurity, e-commerce and software development. Their entry into the labour market is projected to generate a strong multiplier effect, as skilled graduates create jobs, attract investment, and boost productivity across multiple sectors.
The initiative also aligns closely with Uganda’s Digital Vision 2040, which seeks to transform the country into a knowledge-based economy driven by technology and innovation. Each cohort of fellows represents a fresh injection of talent, energy and ideas into the national development agenda.
Beyond Uganda, the programme is part of Airtel Africa Foundation’s broader continental strategy across 14 countries, aimed at democratizing access to elite education and building a network of “Airtel Fellows” who will spearhead Africa’s digital transformation.
For the 20 Ugandan beneficiaries, the fellowship is a life-changing opportunity. For the nation, the Shs3.85 billion investment represents a strategic bet on the power of education and technology to unlock inclusive growth, strengthen competitiveness, and secure Uganda’s place in the digital future.
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