The right to education is a fundamental human right that should be guaranteed for all, regardless of one’s socioeconomic background. However, for many students from disadvantaged communities in Nigeria, access to quality education remains an elusive dream due to financial constraints. This is where the Unubiko Foundation Scholarship Program comes in – as a beacon of hope that is helping transform lives through education.
Overview of the Unubiko Foundation and its Scholarship Program
The Unubiko Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2016 with the aim of enhancing the quality of life for underprivileged communities in Nigeria. Their focus areas are education, healthcare, economic empowerment and community development. As part of their educational initiatives, the Foundation runs a comprehensive scholarship program that aims to remove financial barriers and increase access to tertiary education.
The Unubiko Scholarship Program offers financial aid covering tuition, accommodation and living expenses to deserving Nigerian students enrolled in accredited tertiary institutions across the country. There are three scholarship categories – for university, polytechnic and college of education students.
Eligibility criteria includes:
- Minimum CGPA requirements (4.0/5.0 for universities, 3.5/4.0 for polytechnics and 4.0/5.0 for colleges of education)
- Six O-level credits including English and Mathematics
- Open to full-time students who are indigenes of Abia State or non-indigenes enrolled in Abia State institutions
- Applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds are given preference
The application process is free, online, transparent and merit-based. Shortlisted candidates undergo screening tests and interviews before final selections.
Transforming Lives Through Education
Since its inception, the Unubiko Scholarship Program has supported over 500 students with full scholarships worth over ₦500 million. By eliminating financial burdens, these scholarships have helped brilliant but needy students achieve their full academic potential and career aspirations without interruption.
Many alumni of the program have graduated with top grades and taken up influential roles in various sectors. They are now well-placed to uplift their families and give back to society. The experiences of beneficiaries like Chidimma and Oluchi illustrate the transformative impact of the Unubiko Scholarships.
“As an orphan from a remote village, I could only dream of going to university. The Unubiko scholarship made this dream a reality by supporting me financially and helping me believe in myself. I graduated top of my class in Accounting and now have a prestigious job with an international firm. I am so grateful for this life-changing opportunity.” – Chidimma, University Scholarship Recipient
“Without the Unubiko scholarship, I would have dropped out in my final year due to lack of funds after losing my parents. Instead, I was able to complete my studies and achieve my long-term goal of building a school in my community. Education changes everything!” – Oluchi, College of Education Scholarship Recipient
The Foundation also tracks the progress of beneficiaries through regular engagements to provide mentorship and career guidance. By investing in human capital development, the Unubiko Foundation is empowering young change agents who will drive positive transformation in underserved communities.
Broad Eligibility Criteria Across Diverse Fields
The Unubiko Scholarship program is open to students from all fields of study offered at accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria including:
- Sciences: Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Chemistry
- Social Sciences: Economics, Sociology, Accounting, Business Administration
- Medicine & Health Sciences: Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing
- Engineering & Technology: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
- Arts & Humanities: History, English, Fine Arts
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Law
- Media & Communication Studies
This extensive coverage allows students an opportunity to gain financial support regardless of their area of interest. By promoting participation across diverse fields, the program aims to develop well-rounded leaders equipped to make meaningful contributions within their domains.
In addition, the scholarships are open to students in all years of study – from first year undergraduates to final year students. The continuity in funding ensures that beneficiaries can complete their tertiary education uninterrupted by financial instability.
Award Process Marked by Transparency and Fairness
The Unubiko Foundation runs an open and transparent scholarship application and award process guided by ethical conduct. The online portal provides comprehensive information regarding eligibility, required documents and FAQs.
Once applications are submitted, an independent panel of reviewers assesses each application carefully based on merits and need. Shortlisted candidates are invited for tests and interviews where selections are made based on performance.
The evaluation metrics focus on academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, leadership credentials, communication skills and future aspirations. Preference may be given to female students from very disadvantaged backgrounds.
The selected scholarship recipients are notified directly through letters and email. Rejection or acceptance details outlining the basis of decision are also communicated clearly to all applicants. This ethical approach has built trust and understanding among stakeholders.
Scholarship Funds Supporting Holistic Growth
The Unubiko Foundation Scholarships cater to the comprehensive needs of recipients through generous provisions for tuition, accommodation, living expenses, healthcare, books and supplies. By taking care of major financial burdens, students can focus wholly on their academics and personal development.
The scholarship benefits are disbursed directly to the educational institutions to ensure accountability and minimize misuse. Funds are allocated at the beginning of each academic year and disbursements made each semester upon proof of enrollment and acceptable grades. In addition, the Foundation organizes regular educational enrichment and mentoring programs for scholars. These involve skill-building workshops, motivational talks, career guidance, internship opportunities and networking events with professionals that inspire confidence. Occasional recreational activities promote bonding, mental wellness and balanced growth.
The Foundation also tracks student performance and liaises regularly with institutions to address any emerging needs of scholars. Guidance is provided even after graduation to aid smooth transition into careers or higher education pursuits.
Sustainable Model with Wide Ranging Impact
The Unubiko Foundation implements a sustainable strategy to ensure continuity and maximize reach of its education initiatives. Prudent financial management and partnerships help mobilize sufficient funds annually to support scholarships. Donations from corporate organizations and philanthropic individuals also assist expansion efforts to touch more lives.
Over the past five years, the number of annual scholarships awarded has grown remarkably from 50 to 500 students. Going forward, the Foundation intends to extend its program across all states in Nigeria to provide equal opportunities countrywide. Exposure tours, community outreach activities and development of free digital learning portals are other upcoming initiatives aligned to their access-for-all vision.
The Unubiko Scholarship Program stands out for its structured approach, ethical conduct and impactful results which align closely with Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 – Quality Education. As the Foundation continues to drive change through education, the future looks brighter for disadvantaged youth who will thrive as empowered citizens.
How to Apply for the Unubiko Foundation Scholarship Program
The application window for the 2024 Unubiko Foundation Scholarship Program is now open. All interested applicants who meet the eligibility criteria can apply by February 28, 2024 via the simple steps outlined below:
Step 1: Check If You Are Eligible
Before starting the application process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria below:
- Full-time students enrolled in accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria
- Minimum CGPA scores (4.0/5.0 for universities, 3.5/4.0 for polytechnics & 4.0/5.0 for colleges of education)
- Minimum 6 O-level credits with English & Mathematics
- Indigenes of Abia State or non-indigenes studying in Abia State institutions
- Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You need to have scanned copies of the following documents ready for upload during the online application:
- Passport Photo
- School ID Card
- Admission Letter
- Birth Certificate/Age Declaration Document
- O-level results
- JAMB results (for university applicants)
- Letter confirming your Local Government Area in Abia State
- Signed School Verification Form
Step 3: Visit Application Portal
Go to the official Unubiko Scholarship Portal using this link: https://scholarship.unubikofoundation.org
Create an account with your valid email address and enter all required details to complete the application form before February 28, 2024.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Double check that all information entered is accurate before submitting your application. You will receive an acknowledgement message with your application reference number. Save this for future reference.
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted later for the next stages of screening tests and interviews. Wish you all the best! The Unubiko Foundation Scholarship Program is making giant strides in expanding access to education, especially among talented youth from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Nigeria.
Students no longer have to give up on their tertiary education dreams due to financial constraints. By eliminating this barrier, the program is nurturing high-potential students to become successful professionals and change-makers. The application process is quite straightforward and I encourage eligible students to apply for this life-transforming opportunity before the February 28 deadline.
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