Exploring New Horizons: EdTech Fellowship for Leaders in MENA Region

Cambridge University and HP Announce EdTech Fellowship

In a significant move towards enhancing educational opportunities, Cambridge University Press and HP Inc. are launching an EdTech Fellowship aimed at leaders from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This initiative is a response to the rapidly evolving landscape of digital education, where technologies, notably artificial intelligence (AI), are presenting new avenues for teaching and learning.

The EdTech Fellowship program is designed for senior policymakers and education leaders, focusing on the creation of forward-thinking, evidence-based strategies that are scalable across educational contexts. Over a five-month period, participants will engage in collaborative learning and development, culminating in a residential week at Cambridge. This immersive experience will allow Fellows to work closely on a capstone project intended to promote access to educational technology and bolster resilient learning environments for all students.

This cohort marks an expansion of the Fellowship to North Africa, following its successful engagement in regions including Europe, Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Gulf. Currently, the Fellowship network boasts 99 Fellows from 49 distinct countries around the globe.

Throughout the Fellowship, participants will grapple with the implications of emerging technologies like AI on strategic innovation in education. They will gain practical skills needed to design and implement EdTech strategies that enhance accessibility and equity in educational settings, thereby contributing to their professional growth and development as education leaders.

Jane Mann, the Managing Director of the Partnership for Education at Cambridge University Press, emphasized the unique challenges and opportunities that educational systems in MENA face. She stated, "This Fellowship brings fresh ideas and empowers leaders to implement innovative solutions that enhance equity and resilience in education."

Additionally, Mayank Dhingra, Global Director of Education Business and Strategy at HP Inc., pointed out the growing demand for strategic EdTech leadership in the region. He noted that after a successful cohort in the Gulf, this expansion signifies a critical step forward in advancing digital transformation among local policymakers and education authorities as they work to shape the future of learning through technology.

The EdTech Fellowship has also been recognized for its transformative impact, as reflected in its nomination for the prestigious Bett Awards 2026 for Transformational Impact—the third consecutive year it has held this honor. Previous Fellows have shared insights on the program's exemplary effects on educational leaders in the Gulf region, stressing the potential long-term influence on learners and future generations. Dr. Asma Alhamadi, CEO of Applied College at the Saudi Electronic University, remarked on the profound effect the Fellowship has had on leaders in her region.

For those interested in applying, the deadline is set for January 16, 2026. Scholarships are available to support eligible candidates throughout this exceptional professional development opportunity. More information and application details can be found on the official EdTech Fellowship webpage.

This initiative showcases Cambridge and HP's commitment to leading the charge for EdTech transformation in the MENA region, setting an ambitious precedent for the future of education across diverse communities.