Telecel Ghana has unveiled the ten outstanding final-year female students selected for the 2026 cohort of its Female Engineering Students Scholarship Programme (FESSP), an early career development programme aimed at increasing female representation in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) field.

The female scholars, drawn from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), the University of Ghana (UG), the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), were selected through a competitive process that assessed academic excellence, leadership potential and industry readiness.

Each scholar receives financial support towards their final-year tuition, a new laptop, data bundle, professional mentorship, internship and national service opportunities. Outstanding participants are also considered for Telecel Ghana's NextGen Graduate Programme and future employment opportunities.

Speaking at the cohort announcement ceremony, Telecel Ghana's Human Resources Director, Rachael Appenteng, described the FESSP as the telco’s flagship talent development programme that has created opportunities for young women in engineering and technology, equipping them to lead innovation and strengthen Ghana’s technology ecosystem.

“Our mission is to create a culture of opportunity and excellence. FESSP reflects our belief that talent, when nurtured, transforms organizations and societies alike. We are proud to see these scholars embody resilience, innovation, and leadership” Ms. Appenteng said.

Launched in 2011, FESSP has grown into one of Ghana's longest-running talent development initiatives dedicated to developing female STEM talent. The programme has supported more than 100 young women, many of whom now hold successful careers within Telecel Ghana and across the engineering and technology sectors.

Addressing the scholars, Telecel Ghana’s Chief Executive Officer, Ing. Patricia Obo-Nai encouraged them to approach the opportunity with curiosity, confidence and a willingness to learn from every experience.  She said; “FESSP is more than a scholarship, it is an investment in Ghana’s future. By empowering young women in STEM, we are building the innovators and leaders who will drive our country’s progress.”

Alumna Clara Acquah, who joined in 2019, encouraged scholars to embrace engineering’s versatility: “Engineering equips you with transferable skills. Use it as a springboard and be creative, be innovative, and keep learning.”

Another alumna and a Telecel’s NextGen Graduate Executive, Sena Foli-Mensah, reflected on her own experience.

“FESSP became a real door of opportunity for me. Be open-minded, stay curious, build relationships and never be afraid to ask questions.

"At Telecel, you will be challenged, trusted with responsibility and expected to grow. Rise to those opportunities and believe in your abilities."

Parents also praised the programme’s impact, with Anthony, whose daughter is part of this year’s cohort, saying: “We are grateful for the opportunity. FESSP has strengthened our faith in STEM and the future of our children. 

"As parents, we will continue supporting our daughters to embrace innovation, critical thinking and excellence, and we appreciate Telecel's commitment to their development."

New scholar, Nana Ama Ampofowaa Antwi, said, “Securing a place in this year’s FESSP was quite competitive, so I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. I look forward to making the most of this experience and continuing to grow and build my skills in STEM.”

With each cohort, Telecel’s FESSP strengthens Ghana’s technology ecosystem by preparing engineers and scientists who will drive innovation, expand opportunities, and inspire others to pursue careers in STEM. Telecel Ghana remains committed to scaling this impact, ensuring that more young women step confidently into the future of science and engineering.