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Applications are open for the African Observatory on Responsible Al Scholarship for African Women 2025. The African Observatory on Responsible Al is committed to fostering ethical Al governance across the continent. As part of its Women in Focus initiative, the Observatory is offering five fully funded scholarships for African women to participate in a short course on Al Ethics and Policy.
Opportunity Details
This initiative aims to bridge gender gaps in Al leadership and equip scholars with the skills to shape responsible Al policies in Africa. The Al Ethics & Policy in Africa course, offered by UCT's Ethics Lab in collaboration with the African Observatory on Responsible Al, provides essential insights into Al governance. The course is designed for students, professionals, policymakers, and regulators who wish to deepen their understanding of Al ethics and policy frameworks relevant to Africa.
About the Scholarship
Host Institution: University of Cape Town (in partnership with the African Observatory on Responsible AI)
Number of Scholarships: 5
Course Format: Online (two live sessions per week)
Coverage: Full tuition for the short course
Duration: 5 weeks
Certification: UCT short course certificate upon successful completion
Course Overview
The AI Ethics & Policy in Africa course, offered by UCT’s EthicsLab in collaboration with the African Observatory on Responsible AI, provides essential insights into AI governance. The course is designed for students, professionals, policymakers, and regulators who wish to deepen their understanding of AI ethics and policy frameworks relevant to Africa.
Course Content
Participants will explore key themes, including:
Introduction to AI and Ethics in Africa
Current Perspectives on AI and Ethics: Bias and Discrimination
African Ethical Frameworks for AI
African Ethical Design & Responsible Innovation
AI Governance and Regulation in Africa
AI, African Regional Integration and the Global Economy
AI and Gender in Africa
AI and Privacy in Africa
Autonomous Systems and Decision-Making
Future Perspectives on AI and Ethics: Inclusion and Equity
This scholarship presents a unique fully-funded opportunity for African women to gain specialized training in AI governance, engage with leading experts, and contribute to shaping responsible AI policies from an African perspective. Scholars will benefit from:
Comprehensive training – A structured curriculum on AI policy and governance.
Mentorship and networking – Connections with AI professionals, policymakers, and researchers.
Applicants must:
Identify as a woman and be of African heritage or nationality.
Hold a Bachelor’s degree.
Be a student, professional, or early-career individual with a demonstrated interest in AI ethics and policy.
Show commitment to ethical AI governance and responsible technology development.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee will assess applicants based on:
Interest and commitment to AI ethics, governance, and responsible AI policy.
Leadership potential and ability to influence AI-related discussions and initiatives.
Relevant academic, research, or professional experience in AI or related fields.
Interested candidates must submit the following documents via the application form:
500-word Motivation Letter - Detailing how the scholarship will impact their career and future contributions to AI ethics and policy.
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) - Highlighting relevant academic, professional, or research experience.
Only one submission per applicant is allowed. Incomplete or multiple submissions will not be considered.