A new ₦250 million scholarship fund has been launched by prominent Nigerian figures Tunde Onakoya, Akintunde Sultan, and Samuel Otigba to address the digital skills gap. This initiative specifically targets recent graduates and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, aiming to equip them with job-ready technical skills. The program seeks to transform the mandatory service year into a productive period for career development in the technology sector.
A Strategic Intervention for Youth Employment
This scholarship is a direct response to the challenge of graduate underemployment in Nigeria, aiming to provide a practical solution. Co-founder Samuel Otigba emphasized the goal is to turn the service year into a launchpad for sustainable tech careers, effectively tackling the issue one corps member at a time. The initiative represents a significant contribution from the private sector to bolster the nation's human capital development.
The founders are building on their past collaborative efforts, such as the SIWES-connect programme, which linked students with internship opportunities. This new venture further solidifies their commitment to bridging the gap between academic qualifications and industry demands. By leveraging their extensive social and professional networks, they aim to create a robust ecosystem of support for young Nigerians entering the workforce.
Scholarship Details and Programme Offerings
Each successful applicant will receive a scholarship valued at ₦160,000, which covers the ₦10,000 application fee and ₦150,000 in tuition. Beneficiaries can enroll in a variety of high-demand diploma programmes hosted by AltSchool Africa, a leading ed-tech platform. The courses include AI-powered full-stack engineering, cybersecurity, cloud engineering, data analysis, and technical product management.
These comprehensive diploma programmes are designed to run for a period of nine to twelve months, providing in-depth and practical training. A key feature of the curriculum is its career-focused structure, which allows participants to begin applying for internships from their sixth month of study. This approach ensures that learners gain real-world experience and are prepared to enter the job market upon completion.
Overcoming Barriers with Comprehensive Support
Recognizing that access to hardware is a major hurdle for many, the organizers have included a provision for free laptops. A select number of qualified beneficiaries will receive these devices through a separate evaluation process, ensuring they have the necessary tools for effective learning. This holistic support system is designed to remove common barriers to entry into the tech field for aspiring professionals.
Beyond technical training, the initiative offers extensive career support, including mentorship, portfolio development guidance, and direct job placement through the Jobs59 platform. Tunde Onakoya highlighted that the program focuses on building discipline, resilience, and practical skills essential for long-term success. This comprehensive support structure prepares participants for opportunities well beyond their NYSC programme.
Eligibility and Application Process
The scholarship is open to a broad range of young Nigerians, including current NYSC corps members, prospective members, and recent alumni. This inclusive eligibility criteria ensures that the opportunity reaches those at a critical transition point in their careers. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the official scholarship portal to complete the application form and submit it for eligibility review.
This ₦250 million scholarship initiative represents a pivotal and timely intervention aimed at empowering Nigeria's youth with critical digital competencies. By combining financial aid, technical training, and robust career support, the program provides a clear pathway to meaningful employment in the tech industry. The collaborative effort of Onakoya, Sultan, and Otigba stands as a powerful example of leveraging private-sector leadership to address national development challenges.