The Chairman of the Ebonyi State Scholarship Board, Chief Chaka Nweze, has commended Governor Francis Nwifuru for his administration’s impactful policies, particularly in the education sector, noting that they have significantly contributed to widespread public support.
Speaking on the achievements of the administration, Chief Nweze stated that Governor Nwifuru has performed beyond expectations across key sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, youth empowerment, and sports.
He emphasized that education remains central to the administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs,” with the National and Overseas Scholarship Programme serving as a flagship initiative.
The programme, which targets 1,000 beneficiaries—300 for overseas studies and 700 within Nigeria—is designed to support academically qualified Ebonyi indigenes in pursuing postgraduate degrees in critical fields such as engineering, technology, medical sciences, and law.
Chief Nweze noted that the selection process was strictly merit-based, ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and equitable representation across all Local Government Areas, without political considerations.
Beneficiaries of the overseas scholarship are currently enrolled in reputable universities in the United Kingdom, while others are studying in leading Nigerian institutions.
He further disclosed that the programme has recorded outstanding academic performance, with a significant number of students graduating with distinctions and many advancing to doctoral studies.
According to him, over 200 beneficiaries have either completed or are nearing completion of their Master’s programmes, while a second batch of over 90 students recently commenced their studies abroad.
Chief Nweze described the initiative as a major investment in human capital development, noting that it has provided opportunities for many families who would otherwise be unable to afford such education.
He reiterated that the programme has strengthened public confidence in the administration and positioned the state for long-term socio-economic growth.
