By Our Reporter
Following the recent unveiling of the inaugural cohort of the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, attention has turned to the 20 outstanding Ugandan students whose academic journeys will be fully funded under the Shs 3.85 billion programme. Drawn from underprivileged backgrounds, the fellows share a strong passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and a determination to use innovation to transform their communities.
Edgar Baluku, a Computer Science student at Uganda Christian University, said the scholarship has eased the burden of tuition, allowing him to concentrate on his studies and strive to make his family proud.
At ISBAT University, Jordan Akatuha Byaruhanga, who is pursuing Networking and Cybersecurity, hopes to build a career focused on safeguarding digital systems and communities. Khautharah Kanyange, also a student at ISBAT, described the scholarship as a life-changing opportunity after three years of financial hardship.
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By Our Reporter
Following the recent unveiling of the inaugural cohort of the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, attention has turned to the 20 outstanding Ugandan students whose academic journeys will be fully funded under the Shs 3.85 billion programme. Drawn from underprivileged backgrounds, the fellows share a strong passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and a determination to use innovation to transform their communities.
Edgar Baluku, a Computer Science student at Uganda Christian University, said the scholarship has eased the burden of tuition, allowing him to concentrate on his studies and strive to make his family proud.
At ISBAT University, Jordan Akatuha Byaruhanga, who is pursuing Networking and Cybersecurity, hopes to build a career focused on safeguarding digital systems and communities. Khautharah Kanyange, also a student at ISBAT, described the scholarship as a life-changing opportunity after three years of financial hardship.
Several beneficiaries are pursuing technology-related degrees at Makerere University. They include Isaac Mubiru, Juma Matovu Kikonyogo and Patricia Kisakye, all studying Software Engineering; Nicholas Ojambo, who is pursuing Computer Science; Rishaliz Nakidde, studying Information Systems and Technology; Elisha Alvin Bifandhuba and Ssegawa Jasifa, both enrolled in Computer and Communications Engineering; and Kalinzi Nassuna Rashida, who also joins the programme from Makerere. Each brings a story of resilience, determination and a commitment to applying technology to solve real-world challenges.
From Mbarara University of Science and Technology, the beneficiaries include Melissa Atugonza Ateenyi, who is passionate about expanding access to mental health care through technology; Gloria Nyakato, pursuing Information Technology; and Michael Mukiibi Kirinnya, a Computer Science student focused on developing community-based technology solutions.
Gilbert Kizito from Kyambogo University, who is pursuing Information Technology and Computing, reflected on the sacrifices his parents made to support his education. Esther Kisakye Faith, an aspiring software engineer, sees the fellowship as the opportunity that will finally bring her professional ambitions within reach. Other fellows, including Daniel Manige and additional cohort members across partner universities, share similar aspirations of advancing innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, healthcare technology, renewable energy and digital inclusion.
Together, the 20 fellows represent the promise of Uganda’s next generation of innovators and young leaders whose academic pursuits and future careers are expected to contribute to the country’s expanding digital economy. Through the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, the Airtel Africa Foundation continues to broaden access to STEM education while empowering talented young Africans to transform their communities through technology.
Commenting on the programme, Soumendra Sahu, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel Uganda, highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative.
“Our mission is to empower 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.”
