The Umaru Shinkafi Legacy Foundation and the Abubakar Atiku Bagudu Foundation have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to sponsor 50 girls from educationally disadvantaged states, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto, through scholarships at Miva Open University, Nigeria’s first fully online tertiary institution.
The official signing ceremony took place at the Medicaid Radio Diagnostic Centre, Abuja, in the presence of the leadership and teams from both foundations, alongside representatives from Miva University. This collaboration aims to expand access to quality digital education for underserved girls across Northern Nigeria.
The 25 scholarships awarded by each foundation were announced at the 50th birthday celebration of Mr Sim Shagaya, founder of Miva University. This MOU honours the enduring legacy of two notable statesmen: the late Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi and Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu.
Speaking at the signing, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, CEO of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and Trustee of the Umaru Shinkafi Legacy Foundation, emphasised the significance of this partnership:
“This MOU represents more than just financial support—it’s a powerful statement of our collective belief in the transformative power of education. By investing in these young women, we are investing in the future of their families, communities, and the nation at large.”
Mr Sim Shagaya, founder of MIVA University, commended the collaboration, saying:
“We are proud to work alongside organisations that share our commitment to expanding access to quality education. This scholarship programme ensures that no girl is left behind, no matter where she lives.”
The scholarship recipients will be selected based on need, with particular attention to girls who have demonstrated academic promise but face barriers to higher education.
This strategic partnership reflects a growing commitment among stakeholders to bridge the gender gap in education through sustainable, innovative platforms like Miva Open University.
