On October 7, 2024, Airtel Africa, through its foundation, officially launched the Airtel Africa Fellowship Program at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) in Zanzibar.
The initiative begins a transformative journey in technology education for students across 14 Airtel African countries. The fellowship offers a world-class education in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.
It fully funds 10 undergraduate students by covering the full tuition fee of $12,000 and providing an annual stipend of $500 for living expenses during their 4-year Bachelor of Science program.
The Airtel Africa Fellowship Program reflects the company’s commitment to advancing digital and financial inclusion across the continent, with the goal of "Empowering Africa’s Future, Today."
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Dinesh Balsingh, Managing Director of Airtel Tanzania and representative of the Airtel Africa Foundation Chairman, Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, highlighted the importance of the fellowship.
"The Airtel Africa Fellowship Program is a vital part of our broader sustainability and social responsibility efforts to build a better tomorrow by empowering Africans. Through full financial support, we are closing the digital divide and unlocking opportunities for Africa’s future leaders in the technology space. This initiative not only helps students excel in advanced technology but also creates a foundation for future projects that will uplift communities across Africa, including Tanzania," he noted
Hon. Lela Mohamed Mussa, Zanzibar’s Minister for Education and Vocational Training, underscored the significance of the partnership.
"Zanzibar is on its way to becoming an educational hub for Africa. With the presence of IIT Madras and support from companies like Airtel, we are nurturing future African technology leaders. This fellowship is a lifeline for talented students with aspirations in technology. It provides them with the skills needed to excel in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world. By investing in education and digital innovation, Airtel is playing a key role in preparing young minds to contribute to Tanzania’s growth and Africa’s development," she said.
Zanzibar’s Minister of Infrastructure, Communication, and Transport, Hon. Dr. Khalid Salum Mohamed, also emphasized the importance of digital education.
"Access to education in fields like Data Science and AI is essential for Tanzania’s economic progress. The Airtel Africa Fellowship is a powerful step in equipping our students to lead Tanzania’s digital transformation. This partnership between Airtel Africa and IIT Madras Zanzibar demonstrates the value of private sector collaboration in achieving our digital ambitions," he said.
Prof. Preeti Aghalayan, Dean of IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus, expressed her gratitude for the partnership.
"IITM is a globally recognized institution that has produced many high-tech professionals who are now leaders in the global technology sector. We are honored to collaborate with Airtel Africa Foundation to launch this transformative fellowship program. By supporting students from across the continent, we are fostering academic excellence and driving innovation," he noted.
Indian High Commissioner H.E. Mr. Bishwadip Dey highlighted the alignment between Tanzania's vision for digital education and India’s vision for 2047.
"India’s vision for 2047 focuses on universal digital access, and this partnership between Airtel, IITM, and the Government of Zanzibar is a great example of building future tech leaders of Africa. This fellowship is a powerful testament to the collaboration between our nations to bridge the digital divide and promote technological innovation."
The Airtel Africa Fellowship Program is a long-term initiative that reinforces Airtel’s dedication to empowering African communities through education and digital innovation.
By offering life-changing opportunities, the program is set to play a significant role in the future of technology and economic development across Africa.