Education is a fundamental right, but the financial burden can be overwhelming for many families in Nigeria. Fortunately, several foundations offer support to students struggling to pay their school fees. These foundations provide scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial assistance to ensure that deserving students have the opportunity to pursue their education. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 foundations that help students pay school fees in Nigeria.
1. MTN Foundation
The MTN Foundation is one of the most prominent philanthropic organizations in Nigeria, dedicated to empowering young Nigerians through education. The foundation offers the MTN Foundation Scholarship Scheme, which is available to students in public tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The scholarship covers tuition, book allowances, and stipends for successful applicants.
- Eligibility: Undergraduates in public tertiary institutions with a minimum CGPA of 3.5.
- Application Process: Applications are usually submitted online, and shortlisted candidates undergo an assessment process.
2. Shell Nigeria Scholarship Program
Shell Nigeria, through its Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), offers scholarships to Nigerian students at various educational levels. The Shell scholarship is one of the oldest and most respected scholarships in the country, aimed at supporting the academic pursuits of young Nigerians.
- Eligibility: Students in secondary schools, undergraduates, and postgraduates.
- Application Process: Applications are typically submitted online, and beneficiaries are selected based on merit.
3. The David Oyedepo Foundation
The David Oyedepo Foundation is a Christian non-profit organization committed to providing educational opportunities to young Africans. The foundation offers full scholarships to Nigerian students, covering tuition, accommodation, and other fees throughout their academic journey.
- Eligibility: Students who have gained admission into Covenant University or Landmark University.
- Application Process: Candidates are required to apply online and undergo a selection process based on academic excellence and leadership potential.
4. Agbami Medical and Engineering Professionals Scholarship
Sponsored by Chevron Nigeria and its Agbami partners, this scholarship program targets students in the fields of medicine and engineering. The scholarship aims to build a pool of well-trained professionals who will contribute to the development of Nigeria.
- Eligibility: Undergraduates in Nigerian universities studying medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and engineering.
- Application Process: Online application and selection based on academic performance and other criteria.
5. The NNPC/TotalEnergies National Merit Scholarship
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in collaboration with TotalEnergies offers scholarships to Nigerian undergraduates. The scholarship is aimed at promoting academic excellence and providing financial relief to students.
- Eligibility: Full-time undergraduates in any accredited Nigerian university.
- Application Process: Interested students apply online, and successful candidates are selected based on academic performance.
6. Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship
The Jim Ovia Foundation provides scholarships to Nigerian students through the Jim Ovia Scholars Program. This program is designed to provide financial aid to outstanding students from low-income families to pursue their education.
- Eligibility: Undergraduates in Nigerian universities.
- Application Process: Applications are submitted online, and candidates are selected based on academic performance and financial need.
7. The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program offers comprehensive scholarships to talented yet economically disadvantaged students in Africa, including Nigeria. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, books, and other educational expenses.
- Eligibility: Students admitted to partner institutions such as the University of Pretoria and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
- Application Process: Students apply through the partner institutions, and selection is based on academic excellence and leadership potential.
8. Guinness Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme
Guinness Nigeria Plc, as part of its corporate social responsibility, offers scholarships to Nigerian undergraduates. The scholarship is aimed at supporting students in Nigerian universities who are in need of financial assistance.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students in Nigerian universities.
- Application Process: Applicants are required to submit an online application, followed by a selection process based on academic performance.
9. The Tony Elumelu Foundation
The Tony Elumelu Foundation is renowned for its entrepreneurship programs, but it also offers educational support to young Africans. The foundation’s scholarship program is designed to empower students with the resources needed to complete their education.
- Eligibility: Students in secondary schools and tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
- Application Process: Interested candidates apply online and are selected based on merit and financial need.
10. SEPLAT Joint Venture Scholarship Scheme
The SEPLAT Joint Venture, in partnership with NPDC, offers scholarships to undergraduate students in Nigerian universities. The scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and support students in achieving their educational goals.
- Eligibility: Full-time undergraduates in Nigerian universities, particularly those in their second year of study.
- Application Process: Online application, with selection based on academic merit and other criteria.
Conclusion
Education is a powerful tool that can transform lives, but for many Nigerian students, financial constraints can hinder their academic pursuits. The foundations listed above are playing a crucial role in alleviating these challenges by providing scholarships and financial support to deserving students. If you or someone you know is struggling to pay school fees, consider exploring these opportunities and apply to the ones that best suit your needs.
By taking advantage of these scholarships, you can focus on your studies and achieve your academic and career goals without the added stress of financial burdens. Remember to apply early, meet all eligibility requirements, and prepare thoroughly for any assessments or interviews to increase your chances of success