By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Entries for the Undergraduate Tech Scholarship in Nigeria by Airtel Africa Foundation have opened and applicants can register via candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/airtelfellowship2025.

This programme forms part of the foundation’s F.E.E.D. agenda, which promotes Financial Empowerment, Education, Environmental Protection, and Digital Inclusion, with a focus on creating pathways for talented young people who face financial barriers.

The scheme, according to a statement from the not-for-profit organisation, provides full tuition, accommodation support, and essential study materials for 100-level students with strong academic potential.

Applications are open to students pursuing courses such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and other ICT-related disciplines at participating universities: University of Lagos, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Ahmadu Bello University, University of Benin, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ilorin, and Tai Solarin University of Education.

Applicants must be enrolled in 100-level, have scored at least 230 in JAMB, and hold a minimum of five credits in WAEC, including English and Mathematics, in a single sitting.

Required documents include Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results, university admission letter, West African Examination Council (WAEC) certificate, student identity card, and academic transcript or university results.

Qualified students across the listed institutions have been encouraged to apply and position themselves for a stronger start in the technology sector.
the chairman of Airtel Africa Foundation, Mr Segun Ogunsanya, said the scholarship demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to nurturing Africa’s next generation of digital leaders.

“Young Africans are brimming with talent and ambition. What many need is a fair chance to pursue their education without financial pressure.

“This scholarship reflects our belief that investing in their growth will strengthen communities, empower families, and expand the continent’s digital future,” the former chief executive of Airtel Africa Plc, noted.

On his part, the chief executive of Airtel Nigeria, Mr Dinesh Balsingh, said, “Education is one of the most powerful tools for national development.

“As an organisation, Airtel is determined to build a platform for aspiring young Nigerians to learn, innovate and lead in the country’s expanding technology landscape.”

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Approval has been given to Summit University, Offa, Kwara, to operate a Campus FM Radio State, the chancellor of the higher institution of learning, Mr Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, said.

Speaking at the combined 5th and 6th convocation ceremony of the school at the Alhaja Adiat Abegbe Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, Mr Adegunwa, who doubles as the chairman of Rite Foods Limited, disclosed that the “notification was received a few days ago.”

“This development will help us reach our community more effectively and position the university as a champion of the knowledge economy.

“It will empower us to combat knowledge, poverty and the rising challenge of misinformation in society,” he noted.

He also identified investment in quality education as a catalyst for sustainable socio-economic development, adding that the dedication and financial commitment of stakeholders have continued to strengthen the university’s foundation and growth trajectory.

He appealed to well-meaning individuals to support the institution in its drive for sustainable development.

“This event marks a key milestone for our university. It honours our graduates and celebrates our shared success. An investment in knowledge pays the best dividend. The journey we have embarked upon with Summit University stands as one of the most rewarding investments.

“Our dividend from this investment is not only for today; it is also for posterity. Let us join hands to lift Summit University high, open doors to quality education, and change the world for the better,” he said.

Reflecting on the institution’s progress, the chancellor noted that the school has experienced remarkable growth since he assumed office as the pioneer chancellor in December 2023.

“Since the last convocation, undergraduate programmes have increased from eight to 16. Additionally, six academic programmes recently underwent reaccreditation, and full accreditation was secured from the National Universities Commission (NUC).

“I commend the university management, governing council, and board of trustees. The growth we see today is a testament to your hard work and strategic planning. Your commitment has strengthened the foundation of this university,” he said.

Mr Adegunwa highlighted the significant infrastructural advancement that had taken place in the University since its last convocation ceremony in 2023, adding that foundation for four major building was laid and one was already completed and ready for use while two were nearing completion.

“At this point, I sincerely appreciate Mosun Belo-Olusoga and other donors whose support continues to strengthen this university. Your generosity is a catalyst for our progress. May Almighty Allah bless you abundantly,” he said, revealing that preparations were underway for the verification of the university’s resources for new programmes in the College of Law and the College of Health Sciences.

“All documentation and agreements have been concluded, and we are hopeful that by the next convocation, both colleges will be fully operational,” he disclosed.

At the convocation ceremony, the school conferred honorary doctorate degrees (Honoris Causa) on Aderemi Muyideen Makanjuola and Lateefat Olufunke Gbajabiamila, as well as a posthumous honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration on the late Tiamiyu Adebisi Olatinwo, among other awardees.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor and Chief Academic Officer, Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu expressed appreciation to the Chancellor for donating the ongoing Senate Building project, which he said is now 30 per cent completed, noting that upon completion, the structure would significantly enhance the university’s infrastructure.

He announced that a total of 319 students graduated: 26 with first-class honours, 164 with second-class upper division, 108 with second-class lower division, 25 with third-class, and one with a pass.

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Scores of qualified students from host communities in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State have been awarded bursaries by Dangote Granite Mines, a subsidiary of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL).

This initiative underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, community upliftment, and sustainable development.

It also reinforces the Dangote Group’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and easing the financial burdens on local families.

It was gathered that the beneficiaries were chosen from the four major host communities of Ayebandele, Olorunmodu, Saliu Babarisi, and Idi Omo, reflecting the organisation’s dedication to inclusive growth.

The General Manager for Community Relations at Dangote Granite Mines, Mr Joseph Alabi, reaffirmed the mining firm’s long-standing commitment to social responsibility.

He disclosed that the beneficiaries include 40 tertiary-level students and 20 secondary school students, thus signalling Dangote Granite Mines’ robust commitment to both higher education and foundational learning.

He stated that the bursary scheme is part of a wide range intervention in Ijebu Igbo, which included the renovation of classrooms, development of health centres, the installation of solar-powered boreholes as well as social investments in sustaining cultural heritage of the people.

“The uniqueness of our bursary is such that it doesn’t stop as a one-off gesture; we continue to support the students throughout their study period,” Mr Alabi stated.

In his remarks, Mr Ademola Ariyo, who represented the paramount ruler, the Sopinlukale of Oke—Sopin, Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Mufutau Adesesan Yusuf, lauded the Dangote Group for its consistent dedication to community development.

“When you invest in the education of our children, you invest in the future of Ijebu Igbo,” the monarch said.

One of the recipients, Ms Zainab Ontilo, said, “This money would go a long way in ensuring I complete my tertiary education seamlessly.”