Arochukwu/Ohafia: Over 235 Shortlisted for Ibe Okwara Osonwa’s Foreign Scholarship Initiative
A total of 239 candidates have been shortlisted for the next phase of the prestigious foreign scholarship programme spearheaded by the Ibe Okwara Osonwa Foundation (IOOF), a philanthropic initiative focused on advancing educational opportunities for young Nigerians.
In a statement released by the office of Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, Member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, the Foundation confirmed the conclusion of its rigorous application review for the IOOF Tertiary Education Scholarship Programme. The programme is exclusively available to constituents from the lawmaker’s district and offers a fully funded one-year postgraduate study opportunity abroad, including tuition and visa sponsorship.
“This marks a significant step forward in our mission to invest in Nigeria’s future leaders,” the Foundation stated. “We are proud to support 239 outstanding individuals who met the eligibility requirements to proceed to the next round.”
The IOOF scholarship aims to open global academic pathways, particularly for talented but underprivileged youth in the region. Designed to address the challenges faced by Nigerian graduates in accessing quality education and international exposure, the initiative has been hailed by education experts as both timely and strategic.
However, the Foundation clarified that while the scholarship covers the first year of postgraduate studies, candidates pursuing multi-year programmes must plan ahead.
“Applicants pursuing multi-year programmes must be proactive about securing additional funding and ensuring timely visa renewals beyond the first year,” the statement noted, urging candidates to take ownership of their educational journeys.
With increasing interest in overseas education due to limited opportunities locally and growing emigration trends, this initiative represents a meaningful intervention in the lives of many aspiring scholars.
The Foundation stated that further details regarding the next stage—whether interviews or documentation review—will be communicated to the shortlisted candidates in the coming weeks.
“We congratulate every applicant who made it this far,” the statement concluded. “Your drive and academic aspirations inspire us, and we look forward to the impact you will make on the global stage.”
The scholarship programme is one of several social empowerment initiatives supported by Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa as part of his agenda to build human capital and uplift his constituency through sustainable development.
