Deadline: 16 January 2023
The Eswatini Communications Commission has opened applications for the 2023 Girls in ICT Scholarship for Emaswati.
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.
SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS
The sponsorship will comprise of; i. 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.
ELIGIBILITY
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 extracurricular activities, such as sports, community service etc. is a plus
HOW TO APPLY
Qualifying young girls are requested to submit the following application documents to scholarship@esccom.org.sz by 17H00 on Monday, the 16th of January 2023;
Two (2) page letter of motivation, including educational and professional goals, and achievements
Statement of results
Conditional / Acceptance letter from an accredited Higher Learning Institution
Applications should be addressed to:
Acting Director Support Services
Eswatini Communications Commission 4th Floor, North Wing, Sibekelo Building Mhlambanyatsi Road
Mbabane
For any queries, contact ESCCOM at 24067000.
Shortlisted applicants will be notified and invited to meet the scholarship panel.
How would I know if I got the application