SUMMER SCHOLARSHIPS FOR BLACK STUDENTS 2026

Since 2020, The Knowledge Media Institute and Open University have provided financial support to Black scholars to enable them to experiment in a cutting-edge field, that can help to change the world. Hot technology topics previously covered include: Misinformation, Robotics, Human Computer Interaction, Blockchain and Knowledge Graphs.

As a KMi Scholar, students will receive a non-repayable bursary, mentoring, and support from the researchers, students and technicians who work in project spaces. The bursary can be used to cover living costs or make up for loss of earnings during the summer whilst carrying out a project lasting 8 weeks.

The project will start on 1st July 2026 and may be conducted online, at the Open University campus, or both. The award to each scholar will be £2,700.

The benefits:

KMi Scholars will create a story for future generations. The KMi team aim to make Black students feel at home in a computer science research environment and demonstrate what computing careers can offer. A scholarship could be a step forward in career development. It can provide skills and evidence which can be included in applications to study at university or for employment. Scholars will have a chance to explore and develop technologies in a playful way and contribute ideas to the project.

Application process:

The call for applicants to participate in summer 2026 is now open. These are the three research strands offered as part of a collaborative group project in the 2026 call.

• Research Stream 1: AI Awareness and Community Learning
• Research Stream 2: Prototyping Future Technologies
• Research Stream 3: Discovery of AI Benefits and Harm

Find out more:

To find out further information about the scholarships available and how to apply as well as further information relating to the themes available CLICK HERE or visit: https://kmi.open.ac.uk/scholarship/