Programme equips youth on social economic solutions

DAR ES SALAAM: SIGNIFICANT strides have been reached by the Airtel Africa Foundation through its flagship Airtel Africa Fellowship Programme in the country, as beneficiaries acquire practical, high-impact skills that enhance their capacity to develop innovative solutions, addressing complex socio-economic challenges and strengthening local leadership and problemsolving capabilities.

The programme broadens access to high-quality education, mentorship and international exposure, simultaneously enhancing human capital development and supporting long-term competitiveness.

Through the Fellowship, selected students in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at the International Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, Zanzibar, gain critical skills, networks and exposure, positioning them as innovators and catalysts for inclusive, sustainable development.

The initiative emphasises practical technical training, critical thinking and the development of strong professional networks, thereby enhancing fellows’ capacity to design future-ready, high-impact solutions that respond to real-world challenges while contributing to sustained economic and social progress.

Exposure to cutting edge research and diverse perspectives sharpens their expertise and prepares them for leadership roles in the digital future. One standout from the programme is Ms Milliam Rukanda, a high-performing beneficiary whose journey exemplifies the transformative impact of the Airtel Africa Fellowship.

She described the fellowship as a life-changing opportunity that gave her hope and direction. Coming from a modest background, her experience highlights how targeted interventions in education can overcome financial barriers, enabling talented individuals to access higher learning and realise their potential, thereby contributing to broader human capital development.

“The Airtel Africa Fellowship didn’t just support my education; it changed my future. It gave me the confidence to believe that my background does not define my potential,” she said.

Ms Rukanda emphasised that the programme has not only provided technical skills in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence but also empowered her to mentor other young girls in the technology field. She mentors young girls interested in technology and contributes to longterm innovation initiatives, including developing assistive technologies for children with special needs.

“This programme has shown me that with determination and the right support, I can pursue my dreams and inspire others to do the same.” She has also contributed to long-term innovation projects, including developing assistive technologies for children with special needs, reflecting her commitment to applying technology to solve real-world problems in her community.

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Studying at IIT Madras, Zanzibar has broadened her worldview, strengthened her leadership skills and connected her with fellow innovators from across Africa and beyond. Stories like Milliam Rukanda’s reflect the transformative power of Airtel’s strategic investment in education and innovation.

Through the Airtel Africa Fellowship Programme, Airtel Africa Foundation continues to unlock the vast potential of Africa’s youth and shape a more inclusive, innovative and prosperous future for the continent now with active participation from Tanzania. Another beneficiary is Mwewa Ruby described her Airtel Africa Fellowship experience as a door to new possibilities and a platform for personal and professional growth.

She highlighted the exposure to innovative tools, hands-on labs and entrepreneurial coaching, which allowed her to develop confidence in applying technology to solve real-life problems. She shared that participating in discussions, workshops and presentations at IIT Madras has expanded her technical expertise and strengthened her communication skills.

“This fellowship has shown me that the opportunities for young Africans in technology are limitless if we are willing to work hard and think creatively.” She is motivated to leverage her knowledge to build scalable technology solutions that improve lives across her community and beyond.

On the other hand, Mr Patrick Muchindu from Zambia shared that the fellowship has allowed him to combine his passion for football with technology, creating innovative solutions to enhance sports management and training. He expressed excitement at applying AI and data analytics to areas he is passionate about, stating, “Technology is a powerful tool. With the skills I’m learning, I hope to contribute to Africa’s sports development and inspire other young Africans to innovate in their areas of interest.” Mr Patrick also emphasised how exposure to mentors and peer networks has broadened his understanding of technology’s role in solving societal challenges and creating career opportunities.

On her part, Given Kangwa from Zambia described the fellowship as a bridge to achieving her professional dreams in the tech field. She highlighted the rigorous technical training and cultural exposure as transformative, saying, “This programme has empowered me to believe in myself and pursue a career in statistics and artificial intelligence, even as a young woman in a field dominated by men.”

Given also reflected on the practical aspects of the fellowship, including collaborative projects, mentorship sessions and innovation labs, which she says have sharpened her problemsolving skills and prepared her to develop technology solutions that address societal challenges in Africa. Ibrahim Silima Mnemba from Zanzibar shared his enthusiasm for using technology to tackle healthcare challenges.

He described his involvement in a project to develop a noninvasive diabetes monitoring tool as particularly meaningful, stating, “This programme has given me the tools and guidance to create solutions that can directly improve the lives of people in my community.” Ibrahim also emphasised the personal growth he has experienced through mentorship, exposure to cutting-edge technology and collaboration with peers.

He expressed determination to continue innovating and applying his skills to solve real-world problems across Zanzibar and the wider region. Through the Airtel Africa fellowship programme, the Foundation continues to equip young Africans with the knowledge, skills and networks to become Africa’s next generation of innovators, driving sustainable development and transformative solutions across the continent.