UNZA, CBU students engage in Airtel Tech Fellowship

50 students from the University of Zambia (UNZA) and Copperbelt University (CBU) pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes have been engaged in the Airtel Africa Technology Fellowship. And the government has commended Airtel Zambia for being a…

50 students from the University of Zambia (UNZA) and Copperbelt University (CBU) pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes have been engaged in the Airtel Africa Technology Fellowship.

And the government has commended Airtel Zambia for being a trusted partner in investing in human capital development in the education sector.

Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Kelvin Mambwe says Airtel Zambia has made a positive contribution to the education sector, demonstrating that partnerships between government and the private sector can achieve greater outcomes for learners and the nation.

Represented during the official launch of the Fellowship by the Ministry’s Director of University Education Brian Makufele, Dr Mambwe said 25 students from each university, ranging from first to fourth year, will benefit from the fellowship.

He has since appealed to other private sector players to emulate Airtel Zambia by partnering with the government to strengthen education provision at all levels.

Dr Mambwe stated that the business community can support education through scholarships, infrastructure development, mentorship programmes, digital literacy initiatives, research collaborations, internships and skills development programmes.

The PS said the future of Zambia’s education sector cannot be the responsibility of the government alone, but requires collective efforts from all stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Dr Mambwe also commended Airtel’s partnership with UNICEF, to connect schools to the internet and support digital learning.

He said connectivity is now an essential component of education as it gives learners access to knowledge, innovation and opportunities, particularly those in underserved communities.

And Airtel Zambia Managing Director Hussam Baday said the 50 beneficiaries will each receive a laptop, fully paid accommodation and allowances for the duration of the five-year programme.

Mr Baday said the fellowship goes beyond paying university fees, as it seeks to unlock the potential of young people and create opportunities for them to achieve their aspirations.

He encouraged eligible students with an interest in STEM to apply for the fellowship through the airtel application provided by the company.

He said the students will also receive data connectivity, a monthly student allowance and access to career development opportunities.

He said the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship is aimed at not only supporting students to access university education, but also preparing a new generation of innovators, engineers, scientists and technology leaders who will contribute to Zambia’s socio-economic development.

The Airtel Zambia Chief revealed that Airtel has invested more than K12 million in the education sector through the construction of five modern school facilities in five districts across the country.

And UNZA Vice Chancellor Mundia Muya said the partnership is in line with the university’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, which seeks to position UNZA as a renowned university with global appeal driven by knowledge, research, innovation and responsiveness to societal needs.

Professor Muya said the fellowship supports the university’s strategic objectives, particularly in strengthening STEM education, enhancing linkages with industry, promoting digital transformation and mobilising resources beyond government funding.

He said the partnership between UNZA and Airtel Zambia demonstrates the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in supporting national development.

Meanwhile, Copperbelt University Vice Chancellor Professor Imasiku Nyambe echored Prof Muya in  calling on other industry players to emulate Airtel Zambia and support higher education through strategic partnerships.