Frequently Asked Questions

TechAscend is a free 9-month hybrid tech fellowship program offering intensive training in Software Engineering and AI & Machine Learning. We provide hands-on learning, mentorship, and job placement support to transform aspiring tech professionals in Cameroon.

The program runs for 9 months full-time. Participants should expect to dedicate 25+ hours per week to succeed.

TechAscend is a hybrid program. Most learning happens remotely online, but there are mandatory monthly in-person community events and workshops in Douala.

University students and recent graduates with strong STEM foundations in Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering. We look for individuals passionate about tech, demonstrate determination, and can commit 40+ hours per week.

Applications are submitted through our online portal. You'll need to create an account, fill out personal information, select your track, and answer essay questions that help us understand your motivation and potential.

The application deadline for Cohort 2.0 is January 15th, 2026. We encourage early submissions.

You'll need a valid email, phone number, and answers to our essay questions. A laptop/computer is required to participate, and you'll indicate this in your application.

Once submitted, applications cannot be edited. Please review all information carefully before final submission. You can save your application as a draft and return to it before submitting.

Application decisions are released by January 15th alongside stipend awards. You'll receive an email notification with your status.

No, you must choose one track (Software Engineering or AI & Machine Learning) during application. Choose the one that best aligns with your interests and background.

Yes! All 50 seats in Cohort 2.0 are tuition-free. There is no cost for training, learning materials, or program access.

We offer three categories: (1) Internet + Transport Stipend (10 seats) - full financial support, (2) Transport Only Stipend (10 seats) - partial support, and (3) Program Access Only (30 seats) - free training with no stipend.

No. Stipends are limited (20 out of 50 seats) and awarded competitively based on essay quality, determination, and demonstrated commitment to the program.

Stipends are awarded based on students who answer essay questions well and demonstrate determination and commitment. We evaluate technical aptitude, application quality, and ability to attend mandatory sessions.

Yes! We encourage all eligible candidates to apply regardless of financial need. 30 seats are available for self-funded participants who cover their own internet and transport.

The full stipend covers monthly Internet data and transportation costs for mandatory in-person events in Douala. The partial stipend covers only transport.

We offer two tracks: (1) Software Engineering - Full-stack development, cloud computing, and DevOps, and (2) AI & Machine Learning - Deep learning, NLP, computer vision, and AI deployment.

You'll master full-stack web development (React, Node.js), cloud computing (AWS), DevOps (Docker, CI/CD), system design, software testing, and agile development practices.

You'll learn machine learning fundamentals, deep learning & neural networks, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, AI model deployment (MLOps), and ethical AI practices.

Track changes after selection are generally not permitted due to curriculum structure. Choose carefully during application.

Yes, a functional laptop or computer is required to participate in the program. You'll indicate laptop ownership in your application.

Reliable internet access is essential for remote learning sessions, project work, and collaboration. Monthly data stipends are provided for those who qualify.

For Software Engineering: Basic programming knowledge in any language is required. For AI & Machine Learning: Strong Python skills and understanding of statistics/linear algebra are essential.

Specific software requirements will be shared upon admission. Most tools are free and open-source (VS Code, Git, etc.). Cloud service credits will be provided where needed.

No, you don't need to live in Douala. However, you must be able to travel to Douala for mandatory monthly community events. Our transport stipend helps cover this for those who qualify.

Mandatory in-person community events and workshops occur monthly in Douala. These are essential for networking, collaboration, and hands-on learning.

In-person events include hackathons, networking mixers, industry panels, workshops, and community-building activities. They're designed to enhance learning and career opportunities.

We receive many applications for 50 available seats, making the program highly competitive. Strong essays, technical aptitude, and demonstrated commitment significantly improve your chances.

We evaluate STEM aptitude, application quality (thoughtful essay responses), commitment (ability to dedicate 40+ hours/week), and potential for growth.

Waitlisted candidates are in a strong position and will be notified if spots open up. We'll contact you via email if your application status changes.

Yes, you're welcome to reapply for future cohorts. We encourage you to strengthen your technical skills and essay responses before reapplying.

Cohort 2.0 starts in February 2026. Selected applicants will receive detailed onboarding information including exact start dates and preparation materials.

Selected applicants receive detailed onboarding information via email, including program schedule, preparation materials, communication channels, and first-day instructions.

While we provide job placement support, career coaching, and industry connections, employment is not guaranteed. Success depends on your performance, skills development, and active job search.

You'll receive mentorship from industry professionals, career coaching, resume/portfolio reviews, interview preparation, and introductions to hiring partners.