Airtel Africa Foundation in partnership with Tertiary DNS have launched a new initiative for Women designed to boost female participation in the technology sector.
Dubbed “Tech For Her” program aims at providing young women in Uganda, Zambia and Kenya with high-demand digital skills.
Resty Ayona, Head of Performance and Rewards at Airtel Uganda the five-weeks online program will offer over 100 hours of intensive training in areas such as Linux administration, cybersecurity and data analytics.
It will also feature a flexible learning model with weekend classes for working professionals and weekday sessions for other participants.
“We live in a world where algorithms shape our lives, apps build empires, and data drives economies,” Ayona said. “Yet, for many young women in Uganda, access to this digital revolution remains out of reach — blocked by gender bias, limited access, and a lack of opportunity. This program is our key to unlocking that door.”he stated.
According to Ayona,top performers in the program will receive certificates, along with internship opportunities at Airtel Uganda and mentorship from global tech leaders.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), women make up only 30% of tech professionals in sub-Saharan Africa.
Dr. Segun Ogunsanya, Chair of the Airtel Africa Foundation, said the initiative is crucial for the continent’s progress. “Africa’s digital revolution cannot reach its full potential without gender equity,” he said. “By investing in Africa’s women, we are investing in sustainable economic transformation.”
He added that the foundation will reserve 30% of training slots for women in rural and underserved communities, and 40% will prioritize applicants from low-income households.
Annika Poutiainen, a foundation committee member, said the program will create “a pipeline of female tech leaders who will help unlock the vast digital opportunities both at home, in Africa, and further afield.”
To be eligible, candidates need basic digital literacy and at least a national diploma in science and technology. Applications opened on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, on the respective country-specific Airtel websites. Graduates will receive 12 months of continued skill development support.