SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) 2026: Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships for Tanzanian Students in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
Apply for the SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) Program 2026
The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology of Tanzania has officially announced applications for the SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) Program, a special initiative designed to develop highly skilled Tanzanian professionals in the fields of Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Allied Sciences.
The scholarship aims to strengthen Tanzania’s workforce by producing experts capable of meeting the growing demands of the digital economy, technological innovation, and emerging global industries.
Successful candidates will receive full sponsorship to pursue a Master’s Degree in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) Zanzibar Campus.
About the SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+)
The SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) is a government-funded initiative focused on empowering Tanzanian youth with advanced knowledge and skills in modern technology-related disciplines.
The program supports students pursuing postgraduate studies in:
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Machine Learning
- Cybersecurity
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Related Technology and Innovation Fields
The scholarship aligns with Tanzania’s national development goals and the increasing demand for highly skilled technology professionals both locally and internationally.
Host Institution
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) – Zanzibar Campus
All successful applicants will study at the renowned IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus, one of the leading institutions in science, engineering, technology, and innovation.
Scholarship Benefits
The SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) provides comprehensive financial support, including:
Full Tuition Fees
The scholarship covers all academic tuition costs throughout the study period.
Accommodation and Living Allowance
Beneficiaries will receive support for:
- Food
- Accommodation
- Daily living expenses
Books and Learning Materials
Funding for books, study materials, and academic resources.
Faculty-Specific Requirements
Coverage for any specialized academic requirements related to the program.
Research Support
Financial assistance for research activities and projects.
Health Insurance
Medical insurance coverage during the scholarship period.
Duration of the Scholarship
The scholarship will fund students for a period of:
Two Years
Funding will begin during the 2026/2027 Financial Year.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following conditions:
Nationality
Must be a Tanzanian citizen.
Admission Requirement
- Must have secured admission into:
- M.Tech. in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
- at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) Zanzibar Campus.
Age Limit
- Applicants must not be older than 35 years.
Academic Background
Applicants should:
- Have studied science subjects at Advanced Level (Form Six).
- Demonstrate strong academic performance, particularly in Advanced Mathematics.
Bachelor’s Degree Performance
Applicants must possess:
- A Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized institution.
- A minimum GPA of 3.8 or higher.
Required Application Documents
Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
Personal Documents
- Admission Letter
- National ID (NIDA) Copy
- Birth Certificate
Academic Certificates
- Form Four Certificate (CSEE)
- Form Six Certificate (ACSEE)
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
- Bachelor’s Degree Academic Transcript
Additional Documents
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Scholarship Terms and Conditions
Students awarded the SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) must comply with the following conditions:
Scholarship Agreement
Recipients must read, understand, and sign a scholarship agreement with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
Bank Account Requirement
Students must have a bank account where scholarship funds will be deposited directly.
Program Changes
Recipients are not allowed to change their academic program without written approval from the Ministry.
Study Deferrals
Deferral of studies is only permitted for verified medical reasons approved by the university.
Scholarship Withdrawal
- Students who choose to withdraw before commencing studies must submit a written notification to:
- Permanent Secretary
- Ministry of Education, Science and Technology
- P.O. Box 10
- 40479 Dodoma, Tanzania
- Email: ps@moe.go.tz
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the Ministry’s scholarship portal: temis.moe.go.tz
Applicants are advised to provide:
- A valid email address
- An active mobile phone number
- Accurate personal and academic information
Application Deadline
Applications are open from: Opening Date 29 May 2026 Closing Date 17 June 2026
Late applications will not be considered.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Artificial Intelligence and Data Science are among the fastest-growing industries worldwide. Organizations across sectors are increasingly seeking professionals who can analyze data, develop intelligent systems, strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure, and drive digital transformation.
The SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) offers Tanzanian graduates a unique opportunity to gain world-class education and contribute to the country’s technological advancement.
The SAMIA Scholarship Extended (DS/AI+) is one of the most valuable postgraduate scholarship opportunities currently available to Tanzanian graduates interested in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and related fields.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have secured admission at IIT Madras Zanzibar Campus, this scholarship can provide the financial support needed to pursue advanced education and build a successful career in the technology sector.
Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their documents early and submit their applications before the 17 June 2026 deadline.