The Airtel Africa Foundation is accepting applications for its Tech Fellowship 2026/2027 in Nigeria, an undergraduate scholarship for students in technology courses at 12 public universities. Selected fellows receive tuition support, stipends, mentorship and help with essential study needs, and the programme supports around 100 Nigerian students a year.
Deadline: Monday, 7 December 2026. Applying is free.
Key Details
- Sponsor: Airtel Africa Foundation
- Application partner: The Afara Initiative
- Country: Nigeria
- Level: undergraduate (technology-related degrees)
- Universities: 12 participating public universities
- Places: about 100 students a year
- Deadline: 7 December 2026
Benefits
- tuition support for your university programme
- stipends during your studies
- mentorship from technology professionals
- help with essential study needs such as learning materials
- career readiness and leadership development, with possible exposure to internships at Airtel Africa and partners
In the 2025/2026 cycle, the fellowship was described as covering the full length of a 4–5 year degree, and Airtel Africa Foundation inducted its first Nigerian cohort. Confirm the exact 2026/2027 terms on the application portal.
Participating Universities
- University of Lagos (UNILAG)
- University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN)
- Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria
- University of Benin (UNIBEN)
- Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU)
- University of Ilorin (UNILORIN)
- Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED)
- University of Abuja (UNIABUJA)
- University of Uyo (UNIUYO)
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO)
- University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID)
- University of Ibadan (UI)
Eligibility
- an undergraduate at one of the 12 participating universities
- studying a technology-related course: computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, systems engineering, software engineering or a related discipline
- a Nigerian student (the 2026/2027 call is for Nigeria)
The announcement doesn’t list a minimum CGPA, JAMB score, age limit or year of study. Last year’s call targeted new entrants and asked for a JAMB result, admission letter, school ID card and WAEC result, so have these ready and check the portal’s full conditions.
How to Apply
- Open the official Airtel Africa Foundation Tech Fellowship 2026/2027 application page (hosted by The Afara Initiative).
- Enter your first name, last name and email address, then click Continue. Your email saves your progress.
- Confirm that your university and course are covered.
- Complete the form with your personal and academic details and upload any documents requested.
- Submit before 7 December 2026.
Applying is free. Only use the official portal, and ignore anyone who asks for money to “secure” a place.
Tips
- Scan your JAMB result, admission letter, school ID and WAEC result before you start.
- Use an email address you check often; updates will come there.
- Explain clearly why you chose tech and what you want to build or solve.
- If you need financial support, describe your situation honestly; the fellowship aims to help students who need it.
- Submit early: don’t wait until the final weekend.
Sources: the official application portal (deadline and programme name) and MSME Africa (universities, courses and benefits).
