The Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation has announced applications for its 2026 scholarship programme, targeting female African students pursuing undergraduate degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The initiative is designed to provide financial assistance to academically outstanding women from financially disadvantaged backgrounds while encouraging greater female participation in STEM education through volunteering and community development.

Beyond financial support, successful applicants will be required to participate in the WAAW Foundation’s STEM Outreach Chapter at their respective universities. They are also expected to contribute to programmes that encourage more girls and women to pursue education and careers in STEM fields.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 WAAW Foundation scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be female and of African origin.

• Reside and study in an African country.

• Be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree programme at a recognised university or college in Africa.

• Be in their first or second year of study, or third year if enrolled in a five-year programme.

• Be pursuing a degree in a STEM-related discipline.

• Demonstrate financial need.

• Have an excellent academic record.

• Provide evidence of leadership abilities, volunteering and community service.

• Be below 32 years of age.

Applicants must satisfy these conditions to be considered for the scholarship.

Eligible Courses

The scholarship supports undergraduate students studying disciplines within four major fields:

• Science

• Technology

• Engineering

• Mathematics

However, students studying Medicine and Nursing are not eligible to apply. Pharmacy students are eligible for consideration.

Scholarship Benefits

The WAAW Foundation scholarship offers financial assistance to female undergraduates to support their academic pursuits and help address financial barriers to STEM education.

The programme also places emphasis on community involvement, leadership and increasing women’s representation in science and technology-related disciplines.

Selected scholars are expected to use their participation in the foundation’s university-based STEM Outreach Chapter to support initiatives that inspire more girls and women to pursue STEM education.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates can access the application guidelines and submission requirements through the WAAW Foundation’s official scholarship webpage.

Applicants should review the eligibility conditions and ensure they meet the academic, age, location and course requirements before submitting their applications.

Application Portal: WAAW Foundation 2026 Scholarship

Source: WAAW Foundation