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UNLOCKED OPPORTUNITIES: Speak at AU InnoFest And Fund Your Degree

If your work touches youth, tech, or policy in Africa, this week offers two clear pathways: put your ideas on the continental stage at the African Union’s flagship innovation festival, or lock in a fully funded undergraduate degree with leadership and career support. Both are open now, with hard deadlines.

AU Innovation Festival 2026 (AU InnoFest’26)

If you’ve been developing bold ideas around AI, data governance, or youth skills, this is your moment to turn them into a continent‑wide conversation. The African Union Commission has opened a Call for Session Proposals for AU InnoFest’26, themed “Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty.”

  • A high‑visibility platform at the African Union Commission Headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29–30 September 2026.
  • Multiple session formats to choose from: panel discussions, fireside chats, lightning talks, interactive workshops, masterclasses, startup pitch sessions, design sprints, and showcase sessions.
  • The chance to shape policy and practice across key tracks including Digital Public Infrastructure; AI Innovation & Entrepreneurship; Digital Infrastructure & Trust; Data Governance & Responsible AI; Youth Skills & Future Jobs; Gender & Inclusive Innovation; Research, Indigenous Knowledge & Emerging Technologies; Youth Leadership; Recognition & Innovation Showcase; Youth Participation; and Digital Rights.

It’s open to:

  • Innovators, founders, and startup teams
  • Researchers and academics
  • Policymakers and government representatives
  • Youth organizations and civil society leaders
  • Practitioners in digital rights, data governance, and responsible AI

To qualify, your proposal should:

  • Align with the theme “Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty.”
  • Clearly describe the session format, objectives, and expected outcomes.
  • Include confirmed speaker/panelist names, titles, and email contacts.

Deadline: 11 August 2026.

Form available in the link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=qFAl_beE1EKexsGu8sdRmk9m2CXrI6ZCheotCSYF4jxUOUozSTVLSExEMkEyMlpaTU81Wk1XSTE4Qy4u&route=shorturl

2. University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

If you or a young person in your network is ready for a fully funded undergraduate pathway with strong leadership and career support, this is the one to act on now. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is open for applications.

  • Full tuition coverage for the duration of the undergraduate programme.
  • On‑campus accommodation, laptop and learning materials, monthly stipend, and health insurance.
  • Return ticket allowance, plus structured leadership development, mentorship, internships, and career support.

It’s open to:

  • Citizens of Rwanda and other African countries (including refugees and displaced youth).
  • Applicants under 28 years (up to 30 in special cases).
  • Students who meet University of Rwanda admission requirements and demonstrate leadership potential and community engagement.

To qualify, you must:

  • Be an African citizen (Rwandan or non‑Rwandan).
  • Meet the University of Rwanda’s academic entry criteria for your chosen programme.
  • Show evidence of leadership, resilience, and commitment to giving back to your community.

22 August 2026 at 11:59 PM (Central Africa Time).

Apply here: https://mcfsprecruitment.ur.ac.rw

Listen Mon–Wed at 11:14 on The Crossover with CHANTE. Links drop on our WhatsApp line +264 83 000 1099, save and apply right away.

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