The Click-On Kaduna Data Science Fellowship Programme (DSFP 5.0) reached another milestone last weekend as over 350 shortlisted candidates participated in the Computer-Based Test (CBT) at the Kaduna State University (KASU) Computer Centre. The CBT marks the third stage of the rigorous four-phase selection process designed to identify 40 of Kaduna’s most promising young data talents.

The test, which was held on Saturday, August 23rd, assessed candidates across three key domains: Quantitative Reasoning & Logic, Data Processing & Programming, and Health & SDGs. The exercise was jointly coordinated by staff of the Natview Foundation for Technology Innovation (NFTI), Kaduna State Bureau of Statistics (KDBS), and KASU ICT staff to ensure a smooth and transparent process.

According to the selection committee, the CBT was a technical evaluation and a reflection of the fellowship’s commitment to fairness and merit. Every candidate saw their aggregated scores immediately after completing their test. To maintain transparency, the average performance score was published publicly across our social media platforms.

The average scores recorded during the CBT were:

  • Male candidates: 55
  • Female candidates: 53

Applicants whose aggregate scores exceeded these averages will progress to the interview stage, which represents the final phase of the selection process before the official announcement of the DSFP 5.0 cohort. Interviews are scheduled to take place from Tuesday, August 26th, through Friday, August 29th, 2025.

Now in its fifth edition, the DSFP has trained more than 150 young professionals who are already contributing to projects in governance, health, education, agriculture, and social protection. Many alumni serve as data analysts, project managers, researchers, and decision support officers within the Kaduna State Government and international development organizations, with some recognized globally as ambassadors of data for social good.

The DSFP 5.0 selection process continues to embody this legacy. Through its merit-based structure—from essays to video applications, CBT, and interviews—the fellowship ensures that only the most capable and committed applicants join its ranks.

The final shortlist of 40 fellows is expected to be announced on September 3rd, 2025, followed by induction and orientation in mid-September. Classes for the new cohort are set to commence on October 6th, 2025, at the Amina J. Mohammed SDGs Data Lab.