African Leadership University Rwanda offers 100 scholarships in honour of Mandela

In honor of Mandela Day, the African Leadership University in Rwanda has announced that they will be offering 100 scholarships to students from disadvantaged backgrounds across Africa. The scholarships are a tribute to Nelson Mandela's legacy and his commitment to education and equality. Fred Swaniker, the Founder of the Africa Leadership University, joined CNBC Africa to discuss this initiative and shed light on the program's significance. The scholarships aim to embody Mandela's values of perseverance, passion, and service to others. Swaniker emphasized the importance of gender equality, with 50% of the scholarships going to young women and 50% to young men. The recipients come from 37 different countries across Africa, with 9 students hailing from Kenya. The selection process prioritized individuals who are deserving of the opportunity to study at ALU in Rwanda, with the goal of grooming them to be the future leaders of Africa. The diversity of the continent was also reflected in the selection, ensuring a wide representation of talent. Swaniker highlighted the practical approach of ALU's curriculum, which focuses on developing real leadership skills and entrepreneurial acumen. The program aims to equip students with the tools needed to not only excel in the job market but also to become problem-solvers and innovators in their own right. ALU aims to fill the gap in traditional education systems by providing a hands-on learning experience that prepares graduates for the demands of the modern workforce. Swaniker, a serial entrepreneur and investor, stressed the importance of building a strong team to drive entrepreneurial success. He believes that in Africa, the scarcity lies not in capital but in skilled individuals who can execute ideas effectively. By fostering a culture of boldness, perseverance, and excellence, entrepreneurs can attract the necessary capital to bring their ventures to life. Swaniker shared his own experience of successfully raising capital for various projects by focusing on assembling a talented team that can deliver results. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, including the recipients of the 100 scholarships, is to prioritize building a track record of execution and cultivating relationships with individuals who can help bring their ideas to fruition.