By Adedapo Adesanya

The British High Commission has celebrated 99 Nigerians who have recently completed their studies in the United Kingdom through the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships, pursuing a wide range of master’s degree, PhD, and fellowship programmes.

In Abuja and Lagos, the commission held Welcome Home ceremonies for the 30 Chevening scholars who have completed their studies, as well as the 69 beneficiaries who make up the Commonwealth scholars and fellows.

Chevening Scholarships are the UK Government’s global scholarship programme, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), partner organisations, and partner universities, while Commonwealth Scholarships are managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK.

At both events, the scholars and fellows shared their academic journeys and experiences, and their preparedness to use the skills and knowledge developed during their studies to contribute to Nigeria’s development. Additionally, they were celebrated for their exceptional academic achievements, received their completion certificates, and were officially inducted into the Chevening and Commonwealth alumni community in Nigeria.

Speaking at the reception, the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs Gill Lever (OBE), said, “We take great pride in welcoming back our Commonwealth and Chevening Scholars. Congratulations to every one of them for completing their studies, many with distinctions. I’m so happy that talented Nigerians have had the opportunity to study in the UK, returning with additional knowledge and skills to make a positive difference in their home country. I encourage them to aim for excellence in their future endeavours. I know they will be great ambassadors for the UK in Nigeria and make the most of the networking and knowledge sharing that being a Commonwealth or Chevening scholar presents. Keep in touch, everyone!”

British Council was represented at the welcome event by Mr Chikodi Onyemerela, Director of Programmes, British Council Nigeria. During his remarks, Chikodi congratulated the scholars for completing their master’s and PhD programmes in the UK.

He urged the scholars to be good Ambassadors of their institutions in Nigeria and urged them to apply the knowledge, skills and network that they have acquired in the UK to address challenges facing Nigeria in various sectors while maintaining ties with their UK institutions.

A Chevening Scholar, Nankur Pontip Ramdur, who studied Terrorism, International Crime and Global Security at Coventry University, UK, said, “I understand that peace and security are at the heart of every nation’s development and success; hence, I look forward to contributing to a safer Nigeria. I plan to continue outreach to schools and communities with my team, teaching responses and safe practices regarding sexual and gender-based violence. I am also currently writing a book to broaden the impact of this initiative in Nigeria and subsequently across the globe. I have so much more to meaningfully contribute to my country, and I am glad Chevening has propelled me towards achieving my dreams!”

A Commonwealth Scholar, Chimdi Ekwueme, who studied Health Policy, Planning and Finance at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK, said, “Studying in the UK has deepened my Nigerian perspective by allowing me to situate my local experience within wider international conversations and gaining practical insights I can apply at home.”

By Adedapo Adesanya

An education technology-based platform known as Aahbibi has officially rebranded as Hallos, also launching more than 5,000 self-paced courses aimed at strengthening knowledge transfer, accelerating skill acquisition, and improving literacy among everyday learners across Africa and beyond.

According to a statement on Thursday, the new identity signals a renewed commitment to building an inclusive, creator-driven learning ecosystem that equips individuals with practical, relevant skills for today’s economy.

Positioned as a creator-economy engine, Hallos brings together education, entertainment, and commerce within a single digital platform. It integrates live classes hosted by creators, social commerce and merchandising, podcast-driven learning, and quiz-based gamification. This blended approach is designed to deepen understanding, boost engagement, and promote fast, practical learning experiences for users at every level.

With creators already active on the platform from Kenya, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Lagos, the United States, and Dubai, Hallos is cultivating a truly global community rooted in African creativity and innovation. Its expanding international network offers diverse perspectives, practical insights, and culturally relevant content that resonates with learners across regions.

Beyond online learning, Hallos is also emerging as a creative economy powerhouse, driving engagement through physical and hybrid experiences.

Upcoming initiatives include the Learning247 Creator Summit at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), and a major exhibition at the Enugu Technology Festival. These events are designed to connect creators, learners, and industry stakeholders, fostering collaboration, showcasing innovation, and expanding opportunities in the creative and digital sectors.

At the heart of Hallos’ mission is a four-pillar strategy focused on long-term social and economic impact. The platform is dedicated to supporting women in technology, advancing massive open connected education, and positioning Africa as a global production hub through market-ready skills development. By empowering individuals with practical knowledge, Hallos aims to strengthen the labour market and unlock new economic opportunities across the continent.

Hallos is also introducing a social impact course that encourages collective participation in Africa’s transformation. The initiative invites individuals, creators, and organisations to help reshape narratives, broaden opportunities, and drive the continent toward greater prosperity.

With its new brand identity and expanded course catalogue, Hallos says it is charting a bold future for learning — one where creators lead, communities thrive, and practical knowledge is accessible to all.

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

An administrative building at the Community Secondary School, Enugwuabo Ufuma, in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State has been renovated by Fidelity Bank Plc.

The project underscores the bank’s long-standing commitment to investing in education as a catalyst for sustainable development, according to the Regional Bank Head for Fidelity Bank, Mr Nosa Orumwense, at a ceremony to officially hand over the building to the school’s leadership.

It was gathered that the leading financial institution comprehensively renovated the one-storey administrative block to address infrastructural challenges faced by the school.

“For us at Fidelity Bank, this project represents more than a building. It represents opportunity, progress, and a shared commitment to building a better future for our youths here in Enugwuabo Ufuma and beyond.

“By improving the educational infrastructure of this community, we are providing students and teachers with an environment that promotes learning, discipline, and pride,” Mr Orumwense stated.

On her part, the Commissioner for Education, Professor Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, who represented the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, described the project as a true demonstration of corporate social responsibility.

“Corporate social responsibility is what gives an organisation its human nature. What Fidelity Bank has done reflects compassion and a genuine commitment to touching lives,” she said.

“This school was earlier placed on an emergency list due to the deplorable condition of its buildings. During my last visit, I was genuinely concerned about the safety of both students and teachers. Today, the school wears a new look, thanks to Fidelity Bank’s support,” she added.

The Commissioner also expressed the state government’s appreciation to Fidelity Bank, saying, “We thank Fidelity Bank for this intervention, which clearly demonstrates the true meaning of corporate social responsibility – making tangible impacts that improve lives and strengthen communities.”