The MTN Nigeria Foundation has made a remarkable contribution to education by awarding 13,717 scholarships to 4,949 students in the past 13 years. This was disclosed by Mrs. Aishatu Sadauki, the Foundation Director, during an award ceremony and alumni induction held recently to celebrate the scholars.
Mrs. Sadauki highlighted the foundation’s commitment to supporting students’ educational journeys, stating, “In the last 13 years, we have provided 13,717 scholarships to nearly 5,000 Nigerian students.” She continued by celebrating the success of 380 scholars who were graduating from the scholarship program. These students, she said, have not only fulfilled their academic potential but have also contributed to the development of Nigeria and beyond. Their perseverance and dedication to excellence have exceeded expectations. She encouraged the audience to applaud the scholars’ achievements.
Addressing the scholars directly, she reminded them that education is a powerful tool that shapes minds, encourages innovation, and drives societal change. She advised them to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the MTN Foundation to build strong networks and acquire the skills they need to succeed and give back to society. She shared a quote from Margaret Mead, stating, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” She emphasized that this belief has guided MTN’s mission over the last 18 years, affirming that individuals, no matter their background, can be trailblazers and problem solvers.
In his goodwill message, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), praised the MTN Foundation for its ongoing efforts in advancing youth education in Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of initiatives like the MTN scholarships in fostering individual brilliance and ensuring that no one, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), is left behind. Represented by Basirat Agbabiaka, the Head of the Disability Support Unit at JAMB, Prof. Oloyede emphasized JAMB’s commitment to creating equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their circumstances, through the creation of the Equal Opportunity Group in 2017. This initiative ensures that PWDs have equal chances to participate in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and pursue higher education.
Prof. Oloyede further acknowledged the positive impact of the scholarship programs on Nigerian students, describing them as a beacon of hope that contributes to the nation’s educational development. He also praised the collaboration between JAMB and MTN, emphasizing the power of partnerships in driving societal progress. “We are proud to be associated with MTN Nigeria Foundation in this noble cause. Your commitment to empowering young minds through scholarships is truly commendable and creates a ripple effect of hope and inspiration,” he added.
One of the scholarship beneficiaries, Faith Osemeke from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, expressed her gratitude to the MTN Foundation for the opportunity. She praised the foundation for its commitment to supporting students, particularly those in science and technology fields, and for its inclusion of visually impaired students and the top 10 UTME candidates.
The MTN Foundation’s scholarship initiative continues to be a significant support system for Nigerian students, particularly in promoting educational excellence and providing opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities.
