Girls in ICT Development Programme for Young Eswatini Women and Girls

Girls in ICT Development Programme for Young Eswatini Women and Girls

Science, Technology, and Innovation are key drivers of our increasingly global and digital society. However, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) states that less than 30% of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) professionals are women.

Globally, in tertiary institutions, there is approximately half the number of girls studying STEM subjects compared to boys, Eswatini is not an exception. With this inequality persisting through the 21st century, the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion of women in STEM is critical.

To this end, the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has initiated a ‘Girls in ICT’ Development Program, aimed at young ladies who are interested in pursuing an Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) related profession.

This scholarship is aimed at cultivating the presence and digital skills of young women and girls aged 17-24 in the career field of STEM, particularly ICT. The program will enable young girls without the necessary economic resources, to pursue careers in the ICT space.

Eligibility Requirements

The criteria for selecting potential candidates shall be based on individual merit. Students may apply for the Sponsorship if they meet the following requirements;

Citizen of Eswatini

Aged seventeen (17), or above, up to a maximum of twenty-four (24)

The candidate should have credited Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) related Subjects

Acceptance letter for an ICT-related undergraduate degree from an accredited local or South African Higher Learning Institution

Must be of good conduct, hardworking, and have excellent academic results

Involvement in extra-curricular activities, such as sports, community service etc. is a plus

Benefits

The sponsorship will comprise of;

Fully- funded tuition

Transport fees to and from, payable once every year

Study Permit costs, where applicable

Medical aid, where applicable

Prescribed textbooks

Monthly personal living allowance (stipend) to cover accommodation and living expenses

The scholarship holder will be expected to participate in two (2) annual initiatives promoted by ESCCOM, namely the international ‘Girls in ICT’ Commemoration, and Cybersecurity Awareness
Campaigns, among other initiatives.

How to Apply

For more information and job application details, see; Girls in ICT Development Programme for Young Eswatini Women and Girls