The Director, MTN Foundation, Mrs Aishatu Sadauki, says the foundation has offered 13, 717 scholarships to Nigerian students within 13 years.
Sadauki disclosed this at the Award Ceremony and Alumni Induction, organised by MTN for beneficiary scholars on Tuesday in Abuja.
She described education as a powerful tool that shapes minds, fosters innovation and drives societal change.
The director urged the scholars to take advantage of the foundation’s initiative to build meaningful connections, and gain the knowledge and skills they need to rise and give back to the society.
She quoted Margaret Mead as saying that “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed individuals can change the world”.
According to her, MTN has been driven by this thought for the last 18 years and every individual irrespective of their background or socioeconomic status can be a trailblazer, problem-solver and a visionary.
“Over the last 13 years, we have awarded 13,717 scholarships to 4,949 students.
“Today, we’re graduating 380 scholars whose achievements are not only a reflection of their potential, but also a contribution to the development of our great nation and beyond.
“They have surpassed our expectations by remaining steadfast and dedicated to excellence.
“To our current scholars, you have shown that obstacles are not roadblocks but detours that lead to greatness. You are now torchbearers and older siblings.
“Learn from our outgoing scholars and lend a helping hand to our incoming scholars. Remember, our Y’ello family believes in you and your ability to make a difference in the world around you.,” she said.
In his remarks, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, Registrar, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), lauded the foundation’s initiatives, saying such initiatives are critical in fostering individual brilliance and ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind.
Oloyede, who was represented by Basirat Agbabiaka, Head of Disability Support Unit, JAMB, highlighted JAMB’s shared commitment to providing access to higher education for all Nigerian scholars, irrespective of their background or circumstances.
He said JAMB’s created the Equal Opportunity Group in 2017 to ensure that persons with disabilities (PWDs) had equal chances to participate in the UTME and gain access to higher education.
According to him, the scholarship programmes have become a beacon of hope for many Nigerian students, contributing to educational advancement across the nation.
He lauded the foundation for its continuous investment in youth education and development.
Oloyede noted that the partnership between JAMB and MTN exemplified the power of collaboration in driving societal progress.
“We are proud to associate with MTN Nigeria Foundation in this noble endeavour. Your dedication to empowering young minds through scholarships is commendable and creates a ripple effect of inspiration and hope,” he said. Of
One of the beneficiaries, Faith Osemeke, a student of University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), expressed happiness and applauded the foundation for this initiative.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the scholarship programme covered students particularly in science and technology, students with disabilities and the top 10 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) candidates. (NAN)
