Sterling Bank has announced the first 30 beneficiaries of its ambitious ₦2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship Fund—an innovative, impact-driven programme designed to fund university education for 600 outstanding young Nigerians and connect them to future-ready careers in key sectors of the economy.
Launched in June 2025, Beyond Education marks Sterling Bank’s most comprehensive education intervention yet, targeting not just access to education but long-term employability and socio-economic mobility. The initiative reflects the bank’s growing commitment to human capital development as a foundation for inclusive national growth.
“This is more than a scholarship. It’s a national development strategy,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank. “We’re closing the gap between education and employability. Our mission is to prepare young people for the future of work in sectors that matter most to Nigeria’s progress.”
Unlike conventional scholarship schemes, *Beyond Education* integrates academic funding with a structured pathway to high-impact industries such as health, agriculture, renewable energy, and digital technology. The program also seeks to build a sustainable talent pipeline to support Nigeria’s developmental priorities.
The first cohort of 30 scholars was selected through a transparent, community-based voting process that involved Sterling Bank customers. All nominees underwent a thorough verification process to confirm they met admission requirements at the partner universities.
Among the newly announced recipients 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, and Udeme Umoh—alongside 17 others selected from across the country.
While the scholarship covers full tuition fees, beneficiaries are expected to bear the costs of living expenses, internet access, and learning materials. According to Sterling Bank, this model ensures sustainability and allows the programme to reach more students over time.
With this milestone achieved, the nomination window for the next batch of candidates will remain closed until September 2025, as the Bank focuses on onboarding and supporting its inaugural class.
Through Beyond Education, Sterling Bank is redefining the role of financial institutions in nation-building—shifting from transactional support to transformative investment in Nigeria’s youth.
