The Forum for African Women Educationalists Zambia (FAWEZA), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the 2026 GCE Remedial Learning Support and University Bursary Programme.
This initiative aims to increase access to tertiary education for young Zambians by providing a comprehensive pathway to university entry. A total of 750 bursaries are available for candidates seeking to improve their grades in STEM-related subjects and pursue four-year degree programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Bursary Breakdown
| Category | Allocation |
|---|---|
| Female Candidates | 80% |
| Male Candidates | 20% |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) | 10% |
| Refugees | 15% |
Programme Overview
Successful applicants will undergo a five-month residential structured blended learning programme (physical and virtual) designed to strengthen their performance in GCE examinations. Upon successful completion, candidates will be eligible for placement into STEM degree programmes at partner universities, with comprehensive financial, academic, and social support for the duration of their studies.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Aged between 17 and 25 years (young women are strongly encouraged to apply);
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Not currently on any other bursary or scholarship scheme;
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Have sat for the Grade 12 Ordinary Level Examinations;
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Need to re-sit a maximum of three (3) STEM-related subjects in the July/August 2026 GCE examinations. Eligible subjects include:
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Mathematics
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Additional Mathematics
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Science (Physics and Chemistry)
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Biology
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English
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Demonstrate proof of vulnerability as outlined in the application form;
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Be willing to give back to their community through development or volunteer service after completing studies;
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Be willing to undergo residential structured blended learning at any of the partner institutions listed below.
Priority will be given to:
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Young Persons with Disabilities
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Refugees
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Persons infected or affected by HIV/AIDS
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Orphans (total or partial)
Partner Institutions
Successful applicants will be placed at one of the following institutions:
| Institution | Location |
|---|---|
| University of Zambia | Lusaka |
| Copperbelt University | Kitwe |
| Lusaka Apex Medical University | Lusaka |
| Lusaka University | Lusaka |
| Mulungushi University | Kabwe |
| Eden University | Lusaka |
How to Apply
Step 1: Download the Application Form
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Visit the FAWEZA website at faweza.org.zm
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Navigate to the “Bursaries” or “Opportunities” section
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Download the official application form
Step 2: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Applicants must attach certified copies of the following:
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Current Grade 12 results
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National Registration Card (NRC)
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Refugee Certificate (if applicable)
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Disability Card (if applicable)
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Recommendation letter from one of the following:
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Former School
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Church
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Headman/Headwoman
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Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS)
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United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR)
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Zambia Agency for Persons with Disability (ZAPD)
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A motivational letter outlining career goals, community involvement, or volunteer experience
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications may be submitted through any of the following methods:
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Scan all completed documents as a single PDF and send to: fawezans@gmail.com | |
| Hand Delivery | Submit physical applications at any of the partner university campuses or at the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) offices in districts hosting partner institutions. |
Physical Submission Points:
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Lusaka District: University of Zambia, Lusaka University, Lusaka Apex Medical University, Eden University, Lusaka Business and Technical College
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Kitwe District: Copperbelt University
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Kabwe District: Mulungushi University
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Livingstone District: Livingstone Institute of Business and Engineering Studies
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Mongu District: Lewanika College of Nursing and Midwifery
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Kasempa District: Mukinge College of Nursing and Midwifery
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Ndola District: Northern Technical College (NORTEC), National Vocational Rehabilitation Centre (NVRC)
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Serenje District: Malcom Moffat College of Education
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Mansa District: Mansa College of Nursing and Midwifery
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Kasama District: Lukashya Trades Training Institute, Lukupa College of Nursing and Midwifery
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Mpika District: Zambia College of Agriculture
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Chipata District: Chipata Trades Training Institute
Important Notes
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Application Fee: There is no fee required to apply. All applications are processed free of charge.
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Accuracy: Inaccurate information, falsification, or incomplete applications will lead to automatic disqualification.
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Selection: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. The selection process will be conducted by an independent committee supervised by FAWEZA.
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Notification: Shortlisted candidates will be notified at each stage of the selection process.
Safeguarding Commitment
FAWEZA maintains a zero-tolerance policy to child abuse, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, and sexual harassment by its employees, consultants, volunteers, service providers, contractors, vendors, partners, or anyone associated with the delivery of FAWEZA programmes and services.
All complaints of misconduct should be reported to: faweza@faweza.org.zm
Closing Date
Friday, 20th March 2026
All applications must be submitted by this date. Late submissions will not be considered.
Enquiries
For further information or assistance, please contact the FAWEZA-Mastercard Foundation Bursary Programme Team during working hours:
Phone: +260 955 999 547 / +260 777 416 001
Email: fawezans@gmail.com
Website: faweza.org.zm
[DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM]
