ENGAGE 2026 Applications Now Open: Empowering Young Women in Data Science & AI

Application Deadline: Not specified (apply early as spaces are limited)

About the Programme

The ENGAGE Project 2026, in collaboration with the University of Nairobi, UCSF, and other leading universities across Kenya, is inviting applications from young women for fully sponsored training opportunities in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. These programs are designed to build practical skills, real-world experience, and career pathways in AI, especially in addressing public health challenges. ENGAGE stands for ENabling Girls in AI and Growing Expertise (ENGAGE) in Data Science for Public Health. The project is committed to increasing women’s participation in AI and data science in Kenya and beyond by providing high-quality, accessible training to young women at different stages of their education journey.

Impact to Date

The ENGAGE Project has already made significant strides in empowering young women across Kenya:

• 329 beneficiaries trained to date
• 209 young women have received paid internships
• 38 internship sites across Kenya
• 34 training datasets created
• 18 trainings conducted
• 14 career days held
• 8 partners supporting the initiative
• 3 curricula developed for different education levels

Opportunities Available

Tier 1: Form 3 Students (Secondary School)

• Target: Girls in public secondary schools excelling in Mathematics
• Training Dates: 23 November – 4 December 2026
• Focus: Introducing high school girls to data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning
• Goal: Spark interest in data science careers among young women with a strong foundation in Mathematics

Tier 2: Diploma/TVET Students

• Target: Final-year STEM diploma students
• Training Dates: 3 August – 28 August 2026 (4 weeks)
• Plus: 6-week internship following the training
• Focus: Providing intermediate skills in AI and machine learning for young women pursuing STEM diplomas

Tier 3: Undergraduate Students

• Target: Final-year STEM students (university level)
• Training Dates: 3 August – 28 August 2026 (4 weeks)
• Plus: 6-week internship following the training
• Focus: Advanced, specialized training preparing women for leadership roles and innovation in the tech industry

Why This Programme Matters

Women remain significantly underrepresented in data science and AI across Africa, despite the continent’s growing tech ecosystem and the critical role these skills play in addressing public health challenges, economic development, and innovation.

The ENGAGE Project addresses this gap by:

• Providing fully sponsored training to remove financial barriers
• Creating clear pathways from secondary school through university to careers in tech
• Offering paid internships that provide real-world experience and income
• Focusing on public health applications that demonstrate the social impact of data science
• Building a community of women who support and mentor each other

For many participants, ENGAGE is a transformative experience. As one trainee shared: “What felt impossible before now feels achievable because someone believed in me. By investing in young women’s skills and confidence, the ENGAGE Project is not only changing individual lives but also building a more diverse and capable workforce for Kenya’s digital future.

What Participants Gain

• Hands-on experience in AI & Data Science – Practical, project-based learning
• Skills to build and deploy models – From concept to implementation
• Exposure to real-world problem solving – Addressing public health challenges using data
• A pathway into tech careers and innovation – Internship opportunities and career development support
• Confidence and mentorship – Learning from experienced professionals and connecting with peers

Training Highlights:

• All training is fully sponsored (no cost to participants)
• Internships provide real-world experience and are paid
• Participants join a growing network of women in AI and data science in Kenya
• Training is delivered by leading universities including the University of Nairobi and UCSF

Eligibility Criteria

Tier 1 (Form 3 Students):

• Must be a girl currently in Form 3 (third year of secondary school)
• Must be attending a public secondary school in Kenya
• Must be excelling in Mathematics
• Must have a strong interest in technology and data science

Tier 2 (Diploma/TVET Students):

• Must be a young woman in her final year of a STEM diploma program
• Must be enrolled at a recognized TVET institution or polytechnic in Kenya
• Must have a strong academic record in STEM subjects

Tier 3 (Undergraduate Students):

• Must be a young woman in her final year of an undergraduate STEM degree
• Must be enrolled at a recognized university in Kenya
• Must have a strong academic record in computer science, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or related fields

General Requirements for All Tiers:

• Must be a Kenyan citizen or resident
• Must demonstrate commitment to completing the full training and internship (where applicable)
• Must have access to a laptop or computer for the training (the programme may assist with access for selected candidates)

How to Apply

Application Link: Click here

Application Process:

1. Visit the ENGAGE Project website
2. Click “Apply Now”
3. Select the appropriate tier based on your current education level:

1. Tier 1 – Form 3 secondary school students
2. Tier 2 – Diploma/TVET final-year students
3. Tier 3 – Undergraduate final-year students

4. Complete the online application form with your personal and academic details
5. Submit any required supporting documents (academic transcripts, recommendation letters, etc.)
6. Submit your application before the deadline

Note: The application deadline is not specified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early, as spaces are limited and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

What Trainees Say

“I learned skills that I know will shape my career for years to come.” – Beverline Chebet Lori, Kabarak University (Tier 3)

“ENGAGE gave me the confidence to believe that I belong in data science.” – Cynthia Mutongoi Kimotho, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DEKUT)

“For the first time, I can confidently say I am ready for the tech industry.” – Elizabeth Akinyi Odhiambo, JOOUST

“I now approach problems with confidence and a data-driven mindset.” – Eunice Kawira Murithi, DEKUT

“This experience opened doors I did not even know existed.” – Faith Wambui Gichira, DEKUT

“The exposure and mentorship were exactly what I needed at this stage of my journey.” – Getrude Mugure Ngugi, DEKUT

“I gained practical skills that turned my curiosity into real capability.” – Irine Katulu Musau, SEKU

“This program completely transformed how I see myself and my future in technology.” – Janet Achieng Ojijo, JOOUST

“The training challenged me, stretched me, and ultimately changed me.” – Lydia Nyaboke Oyugi, Pwani University

“I am proud of how much I have grown, both technically and personally.” – Mary Njeri Kariuki, Pwani University

“This program empowered me to dream bigger and aim higher.” – Monica Wanjiru, Pwani University

“ENGAGE made me realize that my background does not limit my potential.” – Okello Veronica Atieno, JOOUST

“ENGAGE helped me turn theory into practical, impactful solutions.” – Rosemary Nyakinga Gacunga, DEKUT

“What felt impossible before now feels achievable because someone believed in me.” – Stacey Jahenda, JOOUST

“I never imagined I could work with real data and build solutions that actually matter.” – Wincate Wawira Njagi, Kabarak University

Apply for ENGAGE 2026 – Click “Apply Now” and select your tier

For More Information: Visit the Official ENGAGE Project Website