Aeesha's Blog

Category: Scholarships and Job Hunt

  • Apply Now: FME Launches ₦50 Million Equity-Free Grant for Students – Dateline Jan 23

    The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) has launched applications for the Student Venture Capital Grant (S‑VCG), a national initiative aimed at funding student-led innovations across Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The programme provides equity-free grants of up to ₦50 million to students with market-ready projects in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medical Sciences (STEMM).

    The online portal is now open, and applications close on 23 January 2026. Interested students can apply here: Apply for S-VCG Grant.http://Apply for S-VCG Grant.

    Empowering Youth Innovation

    According to Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, the S‑VCG is designed to transform tertiary institutions into hubs of entrepreneurship and research commercialisation. “We are looking for the next generation of Nigerian innovators whose projects can grow into impactful businesses,” he said.

    The initiative forms part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Education, linking academic research to real-world solutions and promoting youth-led startups.

    Who Can Apply

    • Full-time students in accredited tertiary institutions.

    • Must be in at least 300 level or postgraduate programmes in STEMM fields.

    • Ventures must operate under a CAC-registered business name.

    • Applications can be individual or team-based.

    Shortlisted applicants will pitch before a 12-members panel of experts from academia, industry, and venture capital.

    Beyond Funding

    Successful applicants gain:

    • Intensive incubation programmes

    • Mentorship from industry leaders

    • One-year Google Gemini Pro licence

    • Access to learning resources and business development support

    Even unsuccessful applicants will be added to a national Innovation Repository, increasing their visibility for future opportunities.

    Partnerships and Impact

    The S-VCG is backed by organisations including Google, TETFund, Bank of Industry, Afara Initiative, and Afrilabs, ensuring students benefit from funding, networks, and technical expertise.

    Analysts say the programme could boost research commercialisation, intellectual property development, and youth job creation, while supporting innovative solutions in healthcare, agriculture, digital technology, and renewable energy.

    Student Voices

    Campus innovation hubs and student groups have expressed excitement, calling the grant an opportunity to turn classroom ideas into viable businesses. Some advocates, however, encourage the government to expand future grants to include arts, social sciences, and creative industries.

    Apply Now

    Eligible students nationwide are encouraged to submit applications before the deadline.

    Apply here: https://svcg.education.gov.ng/

  • PTDF Opens Applications for 2026 Fully Funded Overseas Postgraduate Scholarships

    The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has announced the commencement of applications for its 2026 Overseas Scholarship Scheme, offering fully funded opportunities for Nigerian students to pursue Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) degrees in selected institutions across the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Malaysia.

    The scheme, a flagship human capital development programme of the Federal Government, is designed to build indigenous capacity for Nigeria’s oil, gas and energy sectors through advanced training and international exposure.

    According to information released by the Fund, successful candidates will enjoy full tuition coverage, monthly stipends, accommodation, health insurance, and round-trip airfare, making the award one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available to Nigerian students.

    PTDF stated that the scholarship targets academically outstanding Nigerians whose fields of study align with national priorities in petroleum, gas, renewable energy, engineering, environmental management and other related disciplines critical to economic growth and energy transition.

    The Fund urged eligible applicants to submit their applications early, noting that the application deadline is February 27, 2026.

    Industry analysts say the overseas scholarship scheme remains a strategic intervention to address skills gaps in Nigeria’s energy sector, especially as the country balances fossil fuel development with emerging clean energy demands. Over the years, PTDF scholars trained abroad have contributed to research, policy formulation and technical innovation within the sector.

    Prospective applicants are advised to review eligibility criteria and submit applications through the official scholarship information platform.

    Further details on requirements and the application process are available at:

    Apply via the PTDF Scholarship Portal:
    https://scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng/create/applicant

  • How to Apply for a NELFUND Student Loan: Step-by-step Guide

    The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has outlined a structured process for eligible Nigerian students seeking financial support for tuition and upkeep in public tertiary institutions.

    Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

    Applicants must:

    • Be Nigerian citizens

    • Have secured admission into a public university, polytechnic, college of education, or approved vocational institution

    • Possess a valid JAMB admission letter

    • Have a Bank Verification Number (BVN)

    Step 2: Visit the Official NELFUND Portal

    Applicants are advised to apply only through the official website to avoid fraud:

    https://nelf.gov.ng

    NELFUND warns against third-party agents or unofficial links.

    Step 3: Create an Account

    • Click on “Apply for Student Loan”

    • Register using a valid email address and phone number

    • Verify your account through the confirmation message sent to your email

    Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

    Applicants will be required to provide:

    • Personal details

    • Academic information (institution, course, matric/JAMB number)

    • Bank details for upkeep allowance

    • BVN for identity verification

    Step 5: Upload Required Documents
    These may include:

    • JAMB admission letter

    • School admission confirmation

    • Valid means of identification

    Step 6: Submit and Track Application

    After submission:

    • Applicants can track their application status on the portal

    • Approved tuition fees are paid directly to institutions

    • Upkeep allowances are credited to students’ bank accounts

    NELFUND advises applicants to monitor official updates and respond promptly to any request for clarification.

    NELFUND in Brief: What Students and Parents Should Know

    The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) is a Federal Government initiative created to ensure that no qualified Nigerian student drops out of school due to lack of funds.

    Key Things to Know

    • The loan is interest-free

    • It covers tuition fees and student upkeep

    • Repayment begins after graduation and employment

    • No political, ethnic, or religious discrimination applies

    For Parents

    Education authorities say NELFUND is designed to:

    • Reduce financial pressure on families

    • Encourage uninterrupted schooling

    • Support national human capital development

    Parents are advised to help students submit accurate information and avoid individuals demanding payment to “fast-track” approval.

    For Students

    Students are encouraged to:

    • Apply early

    • Use only the official portal

    • Beware of scams on social media

    NELFUND emphasises that application is free and does not require any middlemen.

    Official Application & Information Portal:
    https://nelf.gov.ng

  • Mauritius Government Scholarships Strengthen Africa–Mauritius Educational Ties

    The Government of Mauritius has opened applications for its 2026 Government Scholarship Programme, offering fully funded undergraduate, master’s and doctoral studies to students of African origin, reinforcing educational collaboration between Mauritius and African countries.

    The scholarship covers full tuition fees, travel expenses and living allowances, and is open to eligible African students until March 27, 2026.

    Applicants and stakeholders are encouraged to visit the official announcement and application page here: Apply for the Mauritius Government Scholarships 2026
    (Fully Funded).

    Strategic Investment in Human Capital Development

    Education and foreign affairs experts say the Mauritius Government Scholarship reflects a strategic investment in human capital that deepens academic exchange and supports continental development goals.

    By enabling African students to access higher education in Mauritius, the programme is expected to boost knowledge transfer, research collaboration and people-to-people ties between Mauritius and participating African states.

    “The initiative strengthens educational cooperation and contributes to long-term development efforts by equipping scholars with global competencies,” a foreign affairs analyst told sources.

    Wide Academic Opportunities and Institutional Partnerships
    Sources gathered that the scholarship is available for a broad range of programmes at public higher education institutions in Mauritius, for both undergraduate and postgraduate study.

    Eligible applicants must apply for full-time on-campus programmes and then forward completed forms through their country’s nominating agency, typically part of the Ministry of Education or Higher Education.

    Scholarship benefits include return airfare on the most economical route, tuition coverage, and a living allowance to support daily expenses while studying.

    Context: Education Diplomacy and Regional Linkages

    The scholarship scheme comes at a time when African nations are increasingly leveraging educational exchanges to strengthen diplomatic relations and build workforce capacity.

    Analysts note that such initiatives not only enhance individual career prospects but also foster stronger bilateral and regional linkages that can contribute to economic growth and innovation.

    Guidance for Prospective Applicants

    Prospective applicants are advised to carefully review eligibility criteria, start the application process early, and coordinate with their national nominating agencies to ensure timely submission of all required documentation.

    As competition for the scholarships is expected to be high, early engagement with relevant authorities and submission of complete applications is critical.

  • TETFund Allocates N6.452bn to 271 Tertiary Institutions for 2026

    The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has approved a total of N6.452 billion for 271 tertiary institutions across Nigeria for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at improving infrastructural development, research, and staff training in the nation’s higher education sector.

    According to a statement released by the TETFund management, the allocations are part of the agency’s annual intervention programme designed to enhance the quality of education in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

    The statement highlighted that the funds would be disbursed across various intervention categories, including academic staff training and development, research and publication, library development, and teaching and learning equipment.

    TETFund also emphasized that the allocation is performance-driven, with institutions required to provide evidence of proper utilization of previous allocations to remain eligible for future funding.

    Key Points from the Allocation:

    • Total number of institutions benefiting: 271

    • Total allocation for 2026: N6.452 billion

    Focus areas: Infrastructure, research, staff training, teaching and learning resources

    • Eligibility criteria: Proper accountability of previous TETFund disbursements.

    Speaking on the allocations, TETFund Executive Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed, stressed that the fund remains committed to transforming tertiary education in Nigeria. He noted that the agency continues to ensure that funds are judiciously utilized to achieve measurable improvements in academic standards.

    “This year’s allocations reflect our continued commitment to empowering institutions and ensuring that Nigerian students have access to world-class learning environments,” Dr. Mohammed said.

    The fund’s intervention has, over the years, contributed to the construction of lecture halls, laboratories, hostels, and libraries, as well as the provision of modern equipment to facilitate teaching and research in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

    Stakeholders’ Response

    University administrators and education experts have welcomed the allocations, describing them as timely and critical for addressing infrastructural deficits and promoting quality education.

    Some experts, however, urged TETFund to enhance transparency and timely release of funds to maximize the impact on academic activities.

    The 2026 allocations mark another significant milestone in TETFund’s continuous efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s tertiary education sector, ensuring that institutions can meet global educational standards.

  • JAMB Issues Strict Warnings on Biodata Changes, Double Registration Ahead of 2026 UTME

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has issued stern warnings to prospective candidates of the 2026 UTME and Direct Entry (DE) registration exercise, emphasizing strict adherence to biodata integrity, biometric capture, and identity verification.

    In a statement signed by the Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the Board underscored that post-registration changes to candidate biodata will not be tolerated.

    • Key Points from JAMB’s Statement:

    ° Registration Timeline:
    Registration for both Nigerian and foreign applicants begins Monday, January 26, 2026, and ends Saturday, February 28, 2026.

    • Biodata Integrity:

    ° Candidates must use biodata supplied by NIMC.

    ° No post-registration biodata changes will be effected.

    ° NIMC updates will only be applied if candidates undergo a RE-QUERY process (TEMPL 007) during registration.

    • Double Registration Prohibited:

    ° Candidates cannot register more than once.

    ° Errors must be corrected through the Board; duplicate applications nullify all registrations.

    ° Multiple National Identification Numbers (NINs) used for double registration, impersonation, or identity manipulation are strictly banned and subject to severe sanctions.

    • Biometric Verification:

    ° Only candidates’ ten fingers must be captured individually and correctly at CBT Centres.

    ° Successful biometric verification is mandatory to sit for UTME or Mock exams.

    • Third-Party Restrictions:

    ° Parents, guardians, or proxies are prohibited from transacting on candidates’ profiles.

    ° Candidates who share passwords or profile codes are responsible for any alterations made by others.

    • Disclosure of Prior Admissions:

    ° Candidates must declare previous UTME/DE registration and admission details.

    ° False or non-declaration will invalidate registration and previous admission.

    • Approved Registration Centres Only:

    ° Registration is allowed only at JAMB-approved centres.

    ° Centres will be monitored live from JAMB headquarters.

    ° Any registration at unmonitored centres may be invalidated and will not be compensated.

    JAMB Emphasizes:

    “Integrity, transparency, and adherence to registration rules are paramount. Candidates must comply fully to avoid disqualification.”

    The Board concluded that all centres participating in the 2026 registration exercise will be under strict supervision to ensure compliance with all guidelines.

  • 2026 UTME/DE: Create Your Profiles Now Ahead Registration, JAMB Urges Candidates

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has urged prospective candidates for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) to begin the creation of their profiles ahead of the commencement of registration.

    The Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, made the call in a statement issued by the Board’s spokesperson in Abuja on Tuesday, stressing that early profile creation would help to ensure a seamless registration process and reduce last-minute challenges.

    According to Oloyede, the profile creation exercise is a compulsory preliminary step for all candidates intending to sit for the 2026 UTME or apply through the Direct Entry mode, noting that no candidate would be able to register without a valid JAMB profile.

    He explained that candidates are required to generate their profiles by sending their National Identification Number (NIN) via SMS to the designated JAMB shortcode or by using approved online platforms, in line with existing guidelines.

    “The Board advises all prospective candidates to commence their profile creation early to avoid congestion and unnecessary pressure as the registration deadline approaches,” Oloyede said.

    He reiterated that the integration of NIN into the registration process remained a critical requirement aimed at enhancing data integrity, eliminating multiple registrations and curbing examination malpractice.

    The registrar also cautioned candidates to ensure that their personal details, including names and dates of birth, were correctly captured in their NIN records before initiating the profile creation process, as discrepancies could affect their registration and admission chances.

    Oloyede warned candidates against patronising cybercafés and individuals not accredited by the Board, noting that JAMB would not be held responsible for errors arising from the use of unauthorised centres.

    He further disclosed the details of the 2026 UTME and DE registration timetable, approved centres, examination dates and modalities would be officially announced by the Board in due course.

    The Board assured candidates and other stakeholders of its commitment to conducting a transparent, credible and hitch-free examination, urging parents and guardians to guide their wards appropriately throughout the registration process.

    Sources report that the UTME is a prerequisite for admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, while the Direct Entry pathway allows candidates with advanced qualifications to gain admission directly into higher levels of tertiary institutions.

  • Intel Region Launches Twitter (X) Program To Enable Users Earn ₦10,000 Monthly

    Intel Region, a digital news and information platform, has announced the launch of a Twitter (X) engagement programme aimed at enabling active users of the social media platform to earn a monthly stipend of ₦10,000.

    The initiative, tagged Intel Region Twitter (X) Programme, is open to individuals who are active on Twitter (now known as X) and willing to participate in online engagement activities coordinated by the platform.

    According to a statement issued by the Intel Region administration on Monday, interested participants are required to complete an online application form to be considered for the programme.

    “To apply and start earning, interested persons are expected to fill out the official application form provided by Intel Region,” the statement said.

    The organisation further clarified that applicants who may have previously filled the form are required to refill and resubmit their details to ensure eligibility under the current phase of the programme.

    Intel Region explained that the programme is part of its broader strategy to expand digital engagement, promote information sharing, and empower social media users with legitimate online income opportunities.

    The application form can be accessed via the official link provided by the platform.

    Intel Region also advised applicants to ensure that the information submitted is accurate, as only qualified and active Twitter (X) users will be selected for participation.

    For further enquiries, the organisation directed interested members of the public to contact its administration through its official email channel.

    The programme is expected to attract a wide range of participants, particularly youths and digital content consumers, as part of ongoing efforts to leverage social media for information dissemination and economic empowerment.

  • McMaster University Scholarships In Canada 2026 | How to Apply

    McMaster University has announced a wide range of scholarships, bursaries and financial aid opportunities for the 2026 academic year, targeted at both international and domestic students seeking admission into undergraduate, graduate and professional programmes.

    The institution said the funding opportunities are designed to attract high-achieving students, support those with financial need, and promote academic excellence across faculties at one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities.

    Available Scholarship Categories

    1. Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships

    These scholarships are available to students commencing undergraduate studies in September 2026.

    They are divided into:

    ° Automatic Entrance Scholarships, awarded based on admission average without a separate application.

    ° Application-based Entrance Scholarships, which require completion of an online awards application.

    Examples include the McMaster University Award of Excellence, faculty-specific awards, and competitive entrance bursaries.

    2. International and Faculty-Specific Scholarships

    ° McMaster University also offers scholarships specifically for international students and for students admitted into particular faculties such as Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences and Science.

    ° Some of these awards are granted automatically based on academic performance, while others require a formal application and supporting documentation.

    3. Graduate and Research Scholarships

    ° Graduate students may access a variety of internal scholarships and research funding through the School of Graduate Studies.

    ° These include merit-based awards, research assistantships, conference travel grants and thesis-related funding opportunities.

    Scholarship Value and Benefits

    The value of scholarships varies depending on category and faculty:

    • Undergraduate entrance awards may run into several thousand Canadian dollars and can be renewable.

    • Some faculty-based international merit scholarships provide substantial multi-year funding.

    • Bursaries are designed to support students with demonstrated financial need and do not require repayment.

    Key Deadlines for 2026

    McMaster University noted that:

    • Most entrance scholarship applications close around February 2026, with many deadlines falling on or about February 19, 2026.

    • Deadlines vary by award type and academic level.

    Applicants are advised to verify deadlines for each scholarship on the official awards portal.

    Eligibility Requirements

    Eligibility criteria differ depending on the scholarship:

    • Entrance scholarships generally require strong academic performance and confirmed admission for the 2026 academic year.

    • International students must meet minimum academic and programme-specific requirements.

    • Need-based bursaries require proof of financial need and may involve income or government aid assessments.

    Application Procedure

    McMaster University manages its scholarships and bursaries through an online platform known as AwardSpring.

    Applicants are required to:

    1. Activate their McMaster MacID after receiving an offer of admission.

    2. Log in to the AwardSpring portal and complete the general application form.

    3. Monitor and complete any additional follow-up requirements such as essays or references for specific awards.

    4. Submit all applications and supporting documents before the stated deadlines.

    Official Application Link

    Prospective students can explore and apply for available scholarships via the official portal:

    https://mcmaster.awardspring.ca

    Applicants may be required to log in using their McMaster MacID credentials.

    Guidance for Prospective Applicants

    The university advised applicants to:

    • Regularly check the AwardSpring portal for updates and new opportunities.

    • Complete the general application early to unlock eligible awards.

    • Carefully review requirements and deadlines for each scholarship.

    McMaster University reaffirmed its commitment to widening access to quality education through structured financial support for deserving students worldwide.

  • No Plan To Hike UTME Form Price, Says JAMB

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has dispelled rumours of an impending increase in the cost of application forms for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) registration.

    In a statement contained in its Weekly Bulletin released on Monday in Abuja, the board emphasised that the fees for UTME and DE application documents will remain unchanged, maintaining the same cost structure that has prevailed for several years.

    JAMB noted that it has not increased the price of its application documents in the last nine years, and in fact, has reduced some charges for prospective candidates within that period.

    The board attributed the stability in fees to its commitment to making access to tertiary education more affordable for Nigerian families, particularly in the face of prevailing economic challenges.

    According to the bulletin, the decision to maintain the current fee regime reflects the directive of the Federal Government to align the board’s activities with national development priorities that emphasise affordability and transparency in educational processes.

    The Board warned that fees would only be reviewed upwards if it becomes absolutely necessary to sustain the integrity and quality of the examination process.

    It urged parents, guardians and prospective candidates to plan early for the upcoming exercise as the cost implication for the 2026 UTME/DE remains largely the same as that of the previous year.

    JAMB also advised candidates to ensure that their National Identification Number (NIN) details are accurate before registration begins, noting that any discrepancies could affect the registration process.

    The board is expected to commence the sale of application documents and the registration process in the coming weeks, with strict enforcement of the registration window once it opens, it added.

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