Airtel Launches Technology Scholarship Scheme for 100 Nigerian Undergraduates

Airtel Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to youth empowerment and digital inclusion with the launch of a new technology scholarship scheme targeting 100 Nigerian undergraduates. The initiative aims to equip young people with essential digital skills, academic support, and industry exposure necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The scholarship scheme is designed to provide tuition support, mentorship, and hands-on training for students pursuing degrees in computer science, information technology, software engineering, and other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Airtel’s move reflects its commitment to bridging Nigeria’s digital divide and fostering the next generation of innovators capable of driving economic transformation through technology.

During the launch ceremony held in Lagos, Airtel Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer, Carl Cruz, emphasized that the initiative aligns with the company’s goal of empowering young Nigerians and contributing to the nation’s digital development agenda. He noted that the scholarship seeks to identify and nurture exceptional talent that can make significant contributions to Nigeria’s fast-growing technology ecosystem.

Cruz stated that Airtel’s focus goes beyond financial support, as the company plans to integrate mentorship and professional development into the scholarship structure. Beneficiaries will not only receive financial aid for tuition and academic materials but will also participate in specialized workshops, coding sessions, and innovation challenges led by seasoned technology professionals.

He added that the programme is part of Airtel’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) framework, which prioritizes education, innovation, and inclusion. According to Cruz, Airtel believes that equipping young Nigerians with technology skills will help bridge the gap between education and employability while strengthening the country’s position as a major digital hub in Africa.

The scholarship will be implemented in collaboration with leading universities and technology hubs across Nigeria. Through these partnerships, Airtel aims to ensure transparency in the selection process and equitable access for students from diverse backgrounds. Applicants will be evaluated based on academic performance, leadership potential, and demonstrated interest in technology-driven problem-solving.

The initiative follows Airtel Africa Foundation’s recent efforts to support STEM education across the continent. Earlier this year, two Nigerian students, Terence Ifeanyichukwu and Ali Usman Mohammed, were awarded full scholarships to pursue technology-related degrees at Plaksha University in India under Airtel’s continental fellowship programme. This underscores Airtel’s consistent commitment to supporting young Africans in technology and education.

Cruz explained that the Nigerian scholarship initiative will serve as a domestic complement to the Africa-wide programme, focusing specifically on nurturing local talents who can contribute to the country’s digital transformation. He also noted that the company will continue to expand the number of beneficiaries in future editions, depending on the success of the pilot phase.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, commended Airtel for its forward-thinking investment in education and youth empowerment. She remarked that such initiatives are crucial to achieving the government’s vision of building a digitally skilled population capable of competing globally.

“The Nigerian government is committed to creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. However, the private sector’s involvement remains vital. Airtel’s scholarship initiative represents the kind of partnership needed to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation and inclusive growth,” Tijani said.

Education experts have also applauded Airtel’s move, describing it as a timely intervention given Nigeria’s need for a technologically competent workforce. They emphasized that the country’s youth population represents an immense resource that can be harnessed for innovation, provided they receive adequate support and access to opportunities.

The scholarship will also expose students to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity—areas identified as key drivers of the future economy. Beneficiaries will undergo periodic assessments to measure progress and impact, ensuring accountability and sustainable outcomes.

Airtel disclosed that recipients will gain access to internships within the company and its partner organizations, giving them hands-on experience in real-world projects. The company believes this exposure will enhance their employability and enable them to contribute meaningfully to the Nigerian economy after graduation.

Beyond its academic and professional benefits, the initiative aims to inspire other corporations to invest in education and innovation as part of their social responsibility. By prioritizing digital education, Airtel seeks to set a standard for corporate citizenship that aligns with national development goals.

One of the anticipated outcomes of the scholarship is the creation of a vibrant community of young tech enthusiasts who will mentor and support one another. Airtel plans to establish an alumni network to connect past and future beneficiaries, fostering collaboration and innovation across regions.

The company’s past initiatives, such as the “Adopt-a-School” programme and various digital literacy campaigns, have already demonstrated its commitment to improving access to quality education. With this new scholarship, Airtel aims to further amplify its impact, ensuring that Nigerian youths have the tools to compete on a global stage.

Industry observers believe that this initiative could become a model for other companies seeking to contribute to national development through technology and education. By supporting 100 undergraduates annually, Airtel is positioning itself as a leading advocate for digital empowerment in Nigeria and across Africa.

As Nigeria continues its journey toward a knowledge-based economy, programmes like this will play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of digital leaders. Airtel’s investment in education signifies a long-term commitment to building an inclusive future where innovation and technology serve as the foundation for sustainable development.

 

In essence, Airtel’s technology scholarship is more than a financial aid programme—it is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future. By empowering students with the skills, resources, and mentorship they need, the company is helping to shape a digitally literate generation capable of transforming the nation’s socio-economic landscape for decades to come.