100 Nigerian Scholars For Postgraduate Studies In US

A non-governmental organisation, i-Scholar Initiative (ISI), has onboarded 100 Nigerian scholars into its mentorship and scholarship programme to support their pursuit of postgraduate studies at universities across the United States ((US).

Speaking virtually during the ceremony, recently, the founder and president of i-Scholar Initiative, Victor Ogunmola, said the organisation was established to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity by empowering young Africans through education.

He said that although the initiative was launched in 2019, it has continued to expand its impact through the commitment of volunteers and development partners.

According to Ogunmola, the organisation’s vision is to raise a new generation of African leaders by helping talented students gain admission into world-class universities through fully funded scholarships.

He noted that many qualified Nigerian graduates are unable to compete for international postgraduate opportunities due to the high cost of standardised tests, application fees and other admission requirements.

“We sponsor standardised tests, application fees, provide mentorship and give them access to an ecosystem of support because we believe that lack of means should never limit exceptional talent,” he said.

Ogunmola added that beneficiaries become part of a lifelong community, expected to mentor future scholars and contribute to the initiative’s mission.

Chairman of the Board of Trustees of i-Scholar Initiative, Dr Tolulope Ewherido, welcomed the new scholars, describing them as the reason for the organisation’s existence.

She said the initiative was committed to supporting the scholars throughout their academic journey and expressed appreciation to members of the Board of Trustees, donors and development partners for sustaining the programme.

Ewherido said the organisation invests in young people because of its belief in their potential, regardless of their backgrounds.

Delivering the keynote address, titled “Unlocking Your Potential to Rise Beyond Barriers,” Chairman of the Nigerian-American Multicultural Council (NAMC), Ufuoma Ewherido, urged the scholars to approach their academic journey with confidence, resilience and perseverance.

He encouraged them to remain focused despite setbacks, noting that persistence often distinguishes successful candidates from those who give up.

According to the i-Scholar Initiative (ISI), it focuses on expanding access to quality global education, providing mentorship, and sponsorship for standardised examinations, graduate school application support, and access to a professional network for academically outstanding but financially disadvantaged Nigerians.