The Airtel Africa Foundation launched the ‘Airtel Africa Fellowship Program’ for students at IIT Madras Zanzibar, the first international campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
Launched on September 10, 2024, the
Fellowship will support students studying for a Bachelor of Science in Data
Science and Artificial Intelligence.
The program, starting with an
investment of US$500,000, will provide financial aid to 10 students throughout
their 4-year degree.
Each student will receive full
coverage of their college fees, totaling US$12,000, plus an additional US$500
per month to cover living expenses.
The Airtel Africa Foundation,
founded in 2024, focuses on digital and financial inclusion, education, and
environmental protection across Africa.
The fellowship is the first telecom
company’s educational project and will support students from 14 African
countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, Rwanda,
the Democratic Republic of Congo, Niger, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Gabon,
Madagascar, and Seychelles.
The selected students, known as
‘Airtel Africa Fellows,’ are expected to become future technology leaders and
contribute to Africa’s economic growth.
Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and
Vocational Training, H.E. Ms. Lela Mohamed Mussa, praised the initiative,
saying, “IITM Zanzibar is creating a new path in technical education in our
region. This fellowship will provide access to high-quality education for
talented students from Tanzania and other African countries. We are grateful to
Airtel Africa Foundation for supporting our efforts.”
Dr. Olusegun Ogunsanya, Chairman of
the Airtel Africa Foundation, said, “We are excited to partner with IIT Madras
Zanzibar. This fellowship will help young Africans access quality education.
Our aim is to create a prosperous and sustainable continent by supporting
education, financial inclusion, and environmental protection.”
Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT
Madras, expressed his gratitude, stating, “IIT Madras is committed to building
a world-class campus in Zanzibar. We are delighted that Airtel Africa
Foundation is supporting us in this mission. This fellowship will greatly help
our students, who are the future global leaders.”
The first group of Airtel Africa
Fellows will start their studies this year, marking a significant step toward
empowering Africa’s next generation of innovators.