PTDF screens over 700 candidates for overseas scholarship

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has initiated the screening of over 700 shortlisted candidates for its prestigious 2024/2025 Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme in the Southwest region.

The rigorous exercise took place at the Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan on Monday, drawing candidates from a wide range of disciplines including engineering, applied sciences, social sciences, and more.

AbdulWasiu Kayode Bawa-Allah, representing Lagos State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC), was in attendance to oversee the process.

He emphasized that the PTDF’s efforts align with the FCC’s constitutional duties to ensure fairness and equity in the distribution of opportunities across Nigeria’s geo-political zones.

Raji Wasiu Adeyinka, a computer science graduate from the University of Ibadan, and Adebola Osifowokan, a chemical engineering graduate from Covenant University, commended the PTDF for what they described as a seamless and well-organized exercise.

Bawa-Allah highlighted the FCC’s role in ensuring the integrity and merit-based selection of candidates, stating, “FCC does not compromise merit, and that is why whoever is qualified is selected and given the opportunity at the end of the exercise.”

He assured that the process was transparent and that all selected candidates had been thoroughly verified with no cases of impersonation.

He also noted the importance of the scholarship as a social benefit funded by the resources from Nigerian states and advised the PTDF to enhance awareness for future editions to attract more qualified applicants.

The PTDF’s postgraduate scholarships are highly sought after, offering Nigerian students the chance to pursue advanced studies abroad, furthering their education and contributing to the nation’s development upon their return.