Applications are open for the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, an undergraduate scholarship programme designed to support Nigerian students studying technology and ICT-related courses. The fellowship targets newly admitted students from selected public universities who demonstrate strong academic ability and genuine financial need. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply early and ensure all required documents are correctly submitted during the application process.
About Airtel Africa Foundation
Airtel Africa Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Airtel Africa plc, a major provider of telecommunications and mobile money services operating in 14 countries across Africa. The Foundation was established to support sustainable development initiatives that improve lives and expand opportunities across the continent. Its mission focuses on empowering Africa through financial inclusion, education, environmental protection, and digital inclusion.
The Foundation believes that access to quality education and digital skills is essential for Africa’s long-term growth. By investing in young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, the Foundation aims to reduce inequality and equip the next generation with skills that align with the demands of a digital economy.
About the Program
The Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship was launched to support young Africans who want to pursue higher education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). The programme is part of the Foundation’s broader goal of increasing the number of African youths with advanced technology skills and preparing future tech leaders from the continent.
Through partnerships with selected public universities in Nigeria, the Foundation supports meritorious students who have secured admission into tech-related undergraduate programmes. The fellowship is structured to remove financial barriers that may prevent talented students from completing their education, allowing them to focus fully on academic success and personal development.
Fellowship Reach
In Nigeria, the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship will support at least 100 students every year. This annual support ensures that multiple cohorts of students benefit from the programme over time. The fellowship is expected to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce that can support innovation, digital transformation, and economic growth within Nigeria and beyond.
Fellowship Coverage
The fellowship covers the full duration of eligible Bachelor of Technology, Science, and Engineering programmes, which typically last between four and five years depending on the course and institution.
Coverage includes sustained academic support throughout the approved study period, provided scholars continue to meet programme guidelines and academic performance requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following conditions to be considered for the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship:
- Admission into one of the seven participating public universities
- New entrants only, at 100 level
- Demonstrated financial need
- Not currently receiving any other scholarship, fellowship, or grant for the same purpose
- Willingness to be considered under gender diversity guidelines
- Minimum JAMB score of 230
- At least five O’Level credits, including English Language and Mathematics, obtained in one sitting
- Possession of valid JAMB result and university admission letter
- Availability of school ID card and WAEC certificate or result for shortlisting
Meeting these criteria does not automatically guarantee selection, as the fellowship is competitive.
Participating Universities
Eligibility for the programme is limited to students from the following seven public universities in Nigeria:
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU)
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)
Only students admitted into these institutions are eligible under the current application cycle.
Eligible Courses
The fellowship is open to students studying technology and ICT-related disciplines, including:
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
- Systems Engineering
- Computer Technology
- Data Science
- Software Engineering
- Library and Information Science
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Telecommunication Engineering
- Other approved technology or ICT-related fields
Courses must be offered by the participating universities.
Application Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements before applying:
- A valid personal email address
- An active phone number
- Ability to complete an online application form
- Accurate personal and educational information
Applicants are required to upload scanned copies of the following documents:
- Recent passport-sized photograph in JPEG format, not more than 200 kilobytes
- University admission letter
- Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) result
- O’Level result(s)
- A’Level, OND, or NCE result(s), where applicable
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applicants should follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the scholarship application portal
- Click on the “Apply Now” tab
- Select “Register Now” to create an account
- Check your email inbox and activate your account
- Return to the scholarship site
- Log in using your registered email and password
- Upload your personal information and required documents
Applications must be completed and submitted before the deadline stated on the portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Airtel Africa Foundation Undergraduate Tech Scholarship?
It is the first scholarship programme under the Airtel Africa Foundation, created to support high-performing Nigerian undergraduates studying technology and ICT-related courses. The programme provides academic and financial support each year.
Who is eligible to apply?
Eligible applicants must be Nigerian citizens, enrolled in one of the seven selected public universities, studying an ICT-related course, and able to demonstrate strong academic performance and financial need.
How many students will be selected?
A total of 100 students will be selected this year.
Which universities are covered?
The programme currently covers UNILAG, UNN, ABU, UNIBEN, OAU, UNILORIN, and TASUED.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship provides academic support including tuition, study materials, accommodation assistance, and a modest stipend.
How will candidates be selected?
Selection is based on a transparent, merit-based process involving screening, eligibility checks, and assessments.
Who can I contact for support or enquiries?
Enquiries can be made through the scholarship support email or phone line during official working hours.
Apply HERE
