About the THE AJABU SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM:
The Ajabu Scholarship Program is designed specifically to uplift the African bar community, with the generous support of our global partners. Educational institutions are invited to get involved through the direct donation of courses, whilst brands, businesses and even individuals may sponsor courses.
The courses are allocated via scholar applications, which are judged by an independent scholarship board. Current board members include Eileen Wayner (CEO Tales of the Cocktail, USA), Charlie McCarthy (Business Development – Spirits at WSET, UK), Christelle Reade-Jahn (Director SA Brandy Foundation, SA), Kojo Aidoo (Director Front Back, Ghana), Riche Barrow (F&B Manager Hero Bar, Kenya), Audrey Boistol (Liv lifestyle Management), Cairbry Hill ( Director; Professional Bar Training), Kirsty McKerrow (Founder, Edinburgh Whisky Academy).
The scholarships are available to anyone living on the continent who works in the African drinks industry. Applications are open regularly throughout the year, as donations come in, and invitations to apply are distributed to our Pan African Ajabu community via mailers and Instagram.
The scholarship program will be added every 6 months.
If you’d like to find out how to sponsor any scholarships, please get in touch with saskia@ajabufestival.com.
Professional Bar Training
These scholarships are recognised by the UAE and therefore getting a job in the UAE with this course is made easier.
- 10 x Professional Bar Training Level 2 certifications (across United Kingdom and International Version)
- 5 x Professional Bar Training Level 4 certifications
- 30 x Professional Bar Training Level 2 certifications
- 15 x Professional Bar Training Level 4 certifications
Level 2 Certificate - United Kingdom
- 30 Level 2 scholarships available between the UK & International version.
The first ever UK certified and globally recognised qualification for professional bartenders that gives a comprehensive understanding of the bar industry. The course covers the foundations of working in a bar and is designed to provide training and certification for bartenders and potential bartenders starting out in their careers.
Level 2 Certificate - International Version
- 30 Level 2 scholarships available between the UK & International version.
For bartenders working outside the UK. The first ever UK certified and globally recognised qualification for professional bartenders that gives a comprehensive understanding of the bar industry, with a focus on industry best practice rather than UK legislation. The course covers the foundations of working in a bar and is designed to provide training and certification for bartenders and potential bartenders in
markets outside the UK.
Level 4 National Diploma in Professional Bar Management
The Level 4 National Diploma in Professional Bar Management is the only dedicated qualification for bar managers. Certified in the UK and recognised globally, this in-depth course will give you the required skills - and confidence - to make the transition from bartending to bar management. The course is aimed at those with over three years’ bartending experience, with at least one year in a supervisory role. To take the Level 4 National Diploma in Professional Bar Management you must have passed the Level 2 Certificate in Professional Bartending Skills, or an equivalent qualification.
Wine & Spirit Education Trust
These qualifications are designed for those who are just starting out in their careers, as well as established professionals, and the many enthusiasts who have a passion for wines, spirits, sake and beer. The Wine & Spirit Education Trust is an awarding body and registered charity devoted to the development and delivery of qualifications and courses in wines and spirits. Established in 1969 for the UK wine trade, WSET has since grown to become the global industry leader.
- 10 x Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 1 certifications
- 25 x Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 2 certifications
Level 1 Award in Spirits
- 10 Level 1 Award in spirit scholarships available.
A beginner level introduction to spirits for those starting a career in the industry or pursuing an interest in spirits. For individuals new to the subject, this qualification offers a hands-on introduction to the world of spirits. You’ll explore the main styles and types of spirits through sight, smell, and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors affecting flavours and aromas. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin.
WSET® Level 1 Award in Spirits.
Level 2 Award in Spirits
- 25 Level 2 Award in spirit scholarships available.
An intermediate-level qualification exploring spirits and aromatised wines for those working in the industry or spirits enthusiasts. This qualification is intended for beginners wishing to learn about a wide range of spirits or those seeking to build on the introductory knowledge gained with the WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits. You’ll learn about the fundamental production methods and principal raw materials, discovering how they are used to make the key spirit styles. You’ll also explore the key practices and principles of serving spirits and the use of spirits in cocktails. Upon achievement you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin and will be able to use the associated WSET certified logo. For more information and full details on the course requirements, please see WSET® Level 2 Award in Spirits WSET Level 2 Systematic Approach to Tasting Spirits®.
Edinburgh Whisky Academy
The Edinburgh Whisky Academy is the only whisky education provider accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, offering a range of online and in-person courses designed to deepen understanding and appreciation of Scotch whisky. With a focus on academic excellence and hands-on learning, the Academy provides accessible and engaging training for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're just beginning your whisky journey or looking to enhance your industry expertise, the Edinburgh Whisky Academy delivers trusted, high-quality education rooted in Scotland's rich whisky heritage.
- 20 x Edinburgh Whisky Academy certifications (across Scotch, Irish and American Single Malt Whiskey)
Certificate in Scotch Whisky
- 10 Edinburgh Whisky Academy certifications available across Scotch, Irish & American Single Malt whisky certificates.
Turn your passion for whisky into true expertise with our comprehensive online course. Whether you're a curious newcomer, a dedicated enthusiast, or already working in a customer-facing role within the industry, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and refined craftsmanship behind Scotland's most iconic spirit. The Certificate in Scotch Whisky is a self-paced, online programme designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of whisky production, its historical evolution, and the modern-day Scotch industry.
Certificate in Irish Whiskey
- 10 Edinburgh Whisky Academy certifications available across Scotch, Irish & American Single Malt whisky certificates.
Dive into the essence of Irish whiskey with our comprehensive online course. Whether you're an enthusiast (newcomer or seasoned professional) or are already working in the industry (in a customer-facing role), this self-paced online course is your passport to unravelling the rich tapestry of Ireland's beloved spirit. The Certificate in Irish Whiskey has been meticulously crafted by renowned Irish whiskey experts Matt Healy and Fionnán O'Connor. The format is short, easy-to-follow multimedia lessons over eight accessible yet thoroughly challenging modules.
Introduction to American Single Malt Whiskey:
Embark on a voyage through the exciting new category of American single malt whiskey with our comprehensive online course created in partnership with the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission. The format is short, easy-to-follow multimedia lessons over seven modules. The course includes video explainers, panel discussions, text and quizzes, ensuring a rich and engaging learning experience. Each lesson features a Discussions tab for interactive engagement with peers and instructors.
About Our DONORS
Professional Bar Training
PBT is the first fully accredited online education programme to be created specifically for bar professionals. It is awarded by the Confederation of Tourism and Hospitality and accredited by Ofqual. Its courses provide unrivalled, comprehensive training that will help you unlock your full potential and take the next step in your career. Never again will bartending be seen as just a job you do on the side. PBT will help you make this your career and climb to the top of the hospitality industry.
WINE & SPIRITS EDUCATION TRUST
WSET is an awarding body and registered charity devoted to the development and delivery of qualifications and courses in wines and spirits. Established in 1969 for the UK wine trade, WSET has since grown to become the global industry leader. WSET qualifications are designed for those who are just starting out in their careers, as well as established professionals, and the many enthusiasts who have a passion for wines, spirits sake and beer.Â
Edinburgh Whisky Academy
EWA is the only whisky education provider accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, offering a range of online and in-person courses designed to deepen understanding and appreciation of Scotch whisky. With a focus on academic excellence and hands-on learning, the Academy provides accessible and engaging training for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're just beginning your whisky journey or looking to enhance your industry expertise, the Edinburgh Whisky Academy delivers trusted, high-quality education rooted in Scotland's rich whisky heritage.
THE AJABU SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM: HOW IT WORKS
We have now awarded 49 scholarships across Africa and we have a further 70+ scholarships to award by 15 September 2025.
We have the following certifications available:
10Â x Professional Bar Training Level 2 certifications (across the United Kingdom and International Version)
5 x Professional Bar Training Level 4 certifications
10 x Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 1 certifications
25 x Wine & Spirit Education Trust Level 2 certifications
20 x Edinburgh Whisky Academy certifications (across Scotch, Irish and American Single Malt Whiskey)
To apply for one of these scholarships, please email saskia@ajabufestival.com for an application form.
Applications for these scholarships will be open from 1 July 2025 till 15 September 2025. Once we’ve received your application, it will then go to the Ajabu Scholarship Board who will look at all of the applications and will award the scholarships based on the answers in the application forms.
The Ajabu team wishes you the best of luck. Please reach out if you need any other information regarding our scholarships. If you have applied before but have not won a scholarship for the previous round, then please do apply for this next round.