Sterling Bank Unveils First Winners of ₦2bn “Beyond Education” Scholarship

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By Alofe Ayomoses

Sterling Bank Plc has announced the first set of beneficiaries of its ₦2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship, a groundbreaking programme to fund the university education of 600 brilliant Nigerian youths and link them to career opportunities in vital sectors of the economy, News Alert reports.

The initiative marks one of the bank’s boldest moves in driving inclusive growth by investing directly in human capital.

More Than a Scholarship – A National Development Agenda

Launched in June 2025, Beyond Education goes beyond paying tuition fees. The programme creates a clear bridge from classrooms to careers, equipping beneficiaries with skills needed in sectors critical to Nigeria’s growth.

It is anchored on Sterling’s HEART strategy focusing on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation to ensure beneficiaries are positioned for impact in industries shaping the country’s future.

“This is more than a scholarship; it is a national development strategy,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank. “We are closing the gap between education and employability, preparing young people for the future of work in the sectors that matter most to Nigeria.”

Partner Universities Leading the Change

The scholarship fully covers tuition at two pioneering institutions:
• Miva Open University – Nigeria’s first licensed private online university.
• Hillside University of Science & Technology (HUST) – a STEM-focused campus in Ekiti State.

These institutions were selected for their forward-looking curriculum and alignment with the nation’s development needs.

First 30 Beneficiaries Announced

The inaugural 30 scholars were chosen through a transparent, community-driven voting process open to Sterling Bank account holders. Nominees underwent thorough vetting to ensure they met the universities’ admission criteria.

The winners are: 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.

Scholarship Structure for Sustainability

While the scheme covers 100% of tuition, recipients are expected to bear the costs of internet access, learning materials, and living expenses. Sterling Bank says this approach will allow the programme to remain sustainable while scaling to impact more students nationwide.