Sterling Bank has unveiled the first 30 recipients of its ₦2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship, a nationwide initiative designed to fund university education for 600 outstanding young Nigerians and connect them to future careers in high-impact sectors.
Launched in June 2025, the programme represents the Bank’s most ambitious education-focused investment to date. It is aimed at closing the gap between academic learning and employability by building a talent pipeline for industries vital to Nigeria’s long-term development.
According to the Bank, Beyond Education is more than a scholarship scheme—it is a national development strategy focused on preparing young people for the future of work in sectors that matter most to the country’s progress.
The inaugural beneficiaries, selected through a transparent voting process open to Sterling Bank account holders, are: Abdulahi Afolabi, Damilare Tijani, Abdulwahab Eniafe, Abubakar Isah, Tahir Enesi Ibrahim, Julius Agbene Agbo, Chinedu Kelechi Patrick, Ayomide Ojo, Fyneseed Nwogu, Miracle Woyinmomoemi Daniel, Serene Clinton, Temiloluwa Orekunrin, Udeme Umoh, Victor Esogwa, Rosemary Kosipre, Ali Mohammed, Usman Isiaka Ololade, Kayode Aikulola, Saviour Philip, Ademola Afolabi, Emmanuel Enekwa, Bashir Sani Ibrahim, Ezekiel Adeseye, Deborah Umeaku, Abba Kaka Lawan, Haisam Sunusi Mahmuda, John Gumuan, Afan Ajiji, Bajepade Kehinde, and Chioma Igwe.
All nominees were vetted to ensure they met admission requirements at partner universities. While the scholarship covers full tuition, recipients will fund additional costs such as internet access, learning materials, and living expenses—a structure the Bank says ensures the programme remains sustainable and scalable.
Nominations for the next set of beneficiaries will resume in September 2025, as the Bank works toward its goal of supporting 600 students across Nigeria.
Sterling Bank says the initiative reflects its commitment to inclusive national development through strategic human capital investment, with a vision of linking education directly to employment opportunities in priority sectors.
