Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do we apply?
To submit your application, click here
Applications are open until 11 PM on Wednesday, 12th June 2019.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
The applications are open to young data scientists and engineers based in Rwanda who are interested in using data tools and techniques to solve development challenges. Applicants should be interested in learning how to become creative problem solvers and be committed to generating innovative data solutions to help advance development in their country and in the region.
Applicants must apply in teams of minimum 2 and maximum 3 people. Teams are encouraged to combine skills in data science and data engineering.
Applicants must choose one challenge they wish to solve. They can apply to the program with or without an existing solution idea (they may generate their solution idea as they go through the program).
All applicants must be able to attend all training sessions and dedicate time additionally to continue developing their solution ideas.
3. Can I apply on my own or do I need a team?
You must apply in a team of 2-3 people. We encourage you to have a team that combines data scientists and data engineers.
4. Are there any conditions for applying as team?
Your team must have minimum 2 and maximum 3 people. We encourage you to have a team that combines data scientists and data engineers. All the team members must be committed to attending all training sessions.
5. Do I have to choose one challenge?
Yes, you must select the challenge you wish to solve when you submit your application.
6. How much time commitment is expected?
- Participants should attend all ten training sessions. The sessions will last 2 – 3 hours and will be delivered during weekdays.
- Participants are encouraged to attend the technical course offered by the World Bank.
- Besides the training sessions, participants should dedicate at least 2 hours per week to further develop their solution.
7. Do we have to be in Rwanda?
Yes, you must be based in Rwanda.
8. What kind of solutions are we expected to generate?
We are looking for innovative data solutions and working prototypes that address one of the three challenge statements:
- Youth employment
- Financial inclusion
- Food security
9. If I am accepted for the program, does it mean I will be able to pitch at the Final Challenge?
No, participating in the program does not automatically mean you will be pitching at the Final Challenge. You will need to submit your solution on 29th of July for it to be assessed. The organizing team will review all solutions and shortlist the most innovative ones.
The selected teams will pitch at the Final Challenge and have the opportunity to win:
- Seed funding grants of up to $10,000
- Mentorship support to further develop their solutions
10. What are the benefits?
All participants will benefit from:
- Skills and knowledge in Design Thinking and Big Data for Development
- Certificate of completion for participants attending all training sessions
- Opportunity to collaborate with other young data scientists based in Rwanda
- Opportunity to apply to pitch at the Final Challenge and win seed funding grants of up to $10,000 and mentorship support.