Young African innovators from Lesotho participating in the fully funded African Drone and Data Academy training in Malawi, learning drone assembly, aerial mapping, and data analytics to solve real-world challenges across Africa.

Fully Funded Training: African Drone and Data Academy (ADDA) 2025

by


Location: Malawi (with online components)

Overview

Young innovators from Lesotho are invited to apply for the African Drone and Data Academy (ADDA) — a fully funded, three-month training programme designed to build expertise in drone technology, aerial mapping, and data analytics. This opportunity empowers participants to use technology to address challenges in agriculture, climate resilience, and disaster management across Africa.

About ADDA

Established by UNICEF in partnership with Virginia Tech, the African Drone and Data Academy (ADDA) (adda.cired.vt.edu) is a premier institution dedicated to equipping African youth with hands-on technical and digital skills. Since its inception in 2020, ADDA has trained over 2,000 graduates who are now driving innovation across the continent.

Programme Highlights:

  • Hands-on drone construction and flight training
  • Aerial mapping and GIS applications
  • Data science and image analysis fundamentals
  • Exposure to AI and digital innovation tools
  • Career pathways in agriculture, climate tech, and humanitarian sectors
Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be citizens of Lesotho
  • Hold a diploma or bachelor’s degree in Engineering, IT, GIS, Data Science, or a related STEM field
  • Possess a valid passport
  • Be available for 11 weeks full-time (Malawi + online)
  • Be aged 22–27 years
  • Demonstrate strong motivation and passion for technology and innovation
Application Process
  1. Register on Yoma
  2. Complete the Drones & Data Learning Nugget
  3. Upload the completion certificate on the same platform
  4. Submit the application form
  5. Take a screenshot of the submission confirmation
  6. Return to the opportunity page and upload the screenshot as proof of completion

Application Deadline: 30 December 2025

Skills Acquired
  • Drone assembly and flight operations
  • 3D visualization and mapping
  • Data collection and analysis
  • Problem-solving using technology
  • Foundations in AI, GIS, and digital tools

Difficulty Level: Beginner
Language: English
Eligibility: Lesotho applicants only

Join a network of forward-thinking African innovators and gain the skills to shape the future of drone and data technology.

Leave a Comment