Sterling Bank Names First 30 Beneficiaries of ₦2bn ‘Beyond Education’ Scholarship

Sterling Bank Names First 30 Beneficiaries of ₦2bn ‘Beyond Education’ Scholarship

Sterling Bank has unveiled the first 30 recipients of its ₦2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship, a nationwide initiative aimed at funding university education for 600 exceptional young Nigerians and preparing them for careers in critical sectors.

Launched in June 2025, the programme fully covers undergraduate tuition at two partner institutions — Miva Open University, Nigeria’s first licensed private online university, and Hillside University of Science & Technology (HUST), a STEM-focused campus in Ekiti State.

Speaking during the announcement, Sterling Bank’s Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking, Obinna Ukachukwu, said the scheme was designed to bridge the gap between education and employability while supporting Nigeria’s long-term development agenda.

“This is more than a scholarship. It’s a national development strategy. We’re closing the gap between education and employability and preparing young people for the future of work in sectors that matter most to Nigeria’s progress,” Ukachukwu stated.

The beneficiaries were chosen through a transparent, community-driven voting process open to Sterling Bank account holders, with all nominees vetted to ensure they met the admission requirements of the partner universities.

The inaugural awardees include 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 tuition is fully covered, recipients are expected to bear additional costs such as internet access, learning materials, and living expenses — a model the bank says ensures sustainability and scalability.

Nominations for the next round will resume in September 2025, although voting remains open for verified nominees. With 570 scholarships still available, Sterling Bank says it remains committed to expanding access to quality education and building a future-ready workforce.

Sterling Bank is recognised for its HEART strategy, which drives investment in Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation, alongside purpose-driven initiatives with measurable impact.