Dangote Cement Plc has expanded its scholarship and skills empowerment programmes for host communities in Gboko, Benue State, reinforcing its commitment to education and human capital development.
The company recently tripled its scholarship fund from ₦10 million to nearly ₦30 million, providing financial support to 230 students across six host communities, including Mbayion, Mbatur, Mbazembe, and Pass Brothers. The expansion ensures inclusiveness, equity, and broader access to educational opportunities beyond the immediate community.
Speaking at the presentation of the symbolic cheque, Gboko Plant Director, Abhijit Dutta, said, “The sustainability of this scholarship scheme for indigent but deserving students reflects our deep-rooted passion for education and human capital development.” He added that the fund is transparently administered to guarantee fairness across all beneficiary communities.
The ceremony also marked the graduation of participants from the Dangote Cement Gboko Plant Youth Skill Acquisition Programme, supervised by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF). In addition to scholarships, the company has implemented several community-focused programmes, including a Women Empowerment Programme for 150 beneficiaries, a Farmers’ Empowerment Programme for 50 beneficiaries, and a Youth Empowerment Programme for 30 youths.
“These interventions are designed not only to provide skills but to restore dignity, promote self-reliance, and stimulate sustainable livelihoods within the communities,” Dutta said.
Representatives from the Industrial Training Fund and community leaders lauded Dangote Cement for its long-term commitment to social and economic development. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, with students pledging to responsibly use the scholarship for educational purposes and serve as ambassadors for the company’s initiatives.
With these interventions, Dangote Cement Plc continues to demonstrate that empowering communities through education and vocational skills contributes to sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
