Digital Nova Scotia announces 2026 TechQuity Award recipient as interest grows
Digital Nova Scotia is proud to announce Osazemhojie Osaighale as the 2026 recipient of the Digital Nova Scotia TechQuity Award.
A graduate of Auburn Drive High School, Osazemhojie is beginning his studies in computer science at Dalhousie University.
“Receiving the TechQuity Award is an incredible honour,” said Osazemhojie. “It gives me the support and confidence I need to focus entirely on my studies at Dalhousie, and I am excited to contribute to Nova Scotia’s growing tech community.”
His interest in the field grew through high school programming courses and STEM programs designed for Black students. Seeing people from his community represented in science and technology helped him recognize that he belonged there, too.
“As soon as I started that class, I was hooked,” he shared of his first computer programming course.
Established by Digital Nova Scotia in partnership with the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia, the TechQuity Award supports African Nova Scotian students pursuing undergraduate studies in computer science, information technology, digital innovation, cybersecurity and related fields.
Backed by a $100,000 endowment fund, the award provides $5,000 annually to help reduce financial barriers and create more equitable pathways into Nova Scotia’s technology sector.
Interest in the award grew significantly this year, with more than six times as many applications received as in 2025—a reflection of its growing reach and the ambition of African Nova Scotian students preparing to pursue post-secondary studies in technology.
Throughout high school, Osazemhojie demonstrated a strong commitment to both his education and his community through peer tutoring, youth programming and volunteer work. At Dalhousie, he hopes to continue developing his programming and leadership skills while exploring how data and technology can be used to solve real-world problems.
Congratulations, Osazemhojie. Digital Nova Scotia is proud to support you as you take this next step.
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