Sterling Bank has announced the first 30 recipients of its ambitious N2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship, a flagship initiative aimed at transforming access to university education and preparing young Nigerians for careers in high-impact sectors.
Unveiled on Thursday, August 7, 2025, the scholarship programme is designed to fund the undergraduate education of 600 exceptional students across Nigeria while connecting them to future-ready job pathways in sectors critical to national development.
Launched in June 2025, Beyond Education goes beyond traditional scholarships. It fully covers tuition at two partner institutions: Miva Open University, Nigeria’s first licensed online private university, and Hillside University of Science and Technology, a STEM-focused campus based in Ekiti State. Both schools are known for their innovation-driven curricula and emphasis on practical skills.
“This is more than a scholarship, it’s a national development strategy,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank. “We’re closing the gap between education and employability. Our mission is to prepare young people for the future of work in sectors that matter most to Nigeria’s progress.”
The bank stated that the initiative aligns with its HEART investment strategy, which prioritizes development in Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.
The inaugural cohort of scholars was selected through a transparent, community-driven process involving nominations and public voting by Sterling Bank account holders. Final selections were made after rigorous screening to ensure eligibility for admission into either of the partner universities.
Among the first 30 awardees are: Abdulahi Afolabi, Damilare Tijani, Abdulwahab Eniafe, Abubakar Isah, Tahir Enesi Ibrahim, Julius Agbene Agbo, Chinedu Kelechi Patrick, Ayomide Ojo, Fyneseed Nwogu, Miracle Woyinmomoemi Daniel, Serene Clinton, Temiloluwa Orekunrin, Udeme Umoh, Victor Esogwa, Rosemary Kosipre, Ali Mohammed, Usman Isiaka Ololade, Kayode Aikulola, Saviour Philip, Ademola Afolabi, Emmanuel Enekwa, Bashir Sani Ibrahim, Ezekiel Adeseye, Deborah Umeaku, Abba Kaka Lawan, Haisam Sunusi Mahmuda, John Gumuan, Afan Ajiji, Bajepade Kehinde, and Chioma Igwe.
While the scholarship covers full tuition fees, recipients will be responsible for ancillary costs such as internet access, learning materials, and living expenses. According to the bank, this co-funding model ensures the programme’s sustainability and scalability.
With 570 more scholarships to be awarded in the coming months, Sterling Bank reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education, skills development, and long-term human capital investment.
“This initiative is not just about sending people to school,” Ukachukwu added. “It’s about shaping the future of Nigeria, one student at a time.”
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