MTN Uganda Foundation and the Forum for African Women Educationalists Uganda Chapter (FAWE-U) recently launched the second round of university education scholarships for girls.
The scheme is designed for female students pursuing programmes in information and communication technologies (ICT) fields.
According to MTN Uganda’s chief executive officer, Wim Vanhelleputte, the firm will support 10 girls with tuition and related fees, scholastic materials, meals, accommodation, basic personal requirements, career guidance and mentorship support.
Vanhelleputte acknowledged that the scheme had grown from sponsoring two female students, who recently completed their degrees earlier this year.
“At MTN, one of our key priority areas is education and we recognize the value in empowering women in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT),” Vanhelleputte said. “ICT is a tool through which gender equality and women empowerment can be advanced to create communities where both women and men can substantively contribute to socio-economic growth.”
FAWE executive director, Christine Semambo Sempebwa, invited other corporate organizations and entities to join MTN in a cause to promote post- primary education.
Maria Kiwanuka, trustee, MTN Foundation, said this is coming at a time when girl-child education continues to struggle, and she is confident that this initiative will go a long way to help boost the mothers of the nation in key areas like ICT.
“This is because educated girls become educated women who have the knowledge, skills and opportunity to play a role in governance and democratic processes and to influence the direction of their societies,” she said.
“This scholarship was established to sponsor young, talented girls undertaking ICT courses, but may not be able to meet their university fees; they will also be taken through mentorship sessions to further guide them on their career paths.”
justuslyatuu08@gmail.com