Senator Barau Jibrin to Fund 300 Master’s Scholarships in Nigerian Universities
By Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu
Northern Bureau Chief
January 7, 2025
Barely a week after facilitating scholarships for 70 students to pursue postgraduate studies abroad, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has taken another significant step toward fostering educational advancement. Through his philanthropic initiative, the Barau I Jibrin Foundation (BIJF), he is set to sponsor 300 students for Master’s degree programs in leading Nigerian universities for the 2025/2026 academic session.
This laudable initiative comes on the heels of the successful departure of 70 scholars to India on December 29, 2024, from the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA). These scholars, drawn from across the three senatorial districts of Kano State, were selected based on their outstanding academic performance and potential to contribute to the nation’s development.
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In announcing the new domestic postgraduate scholarship program, Senator Jibrin, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, emphasized his commitment to human capital development. He noted that the BIJF’s latest effort is aimed at nurturing a generation of well-educated, innovative professionals equipped to address Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
“The foundation remains committed to providing opportunities for deserving graduates in Kano State. We believe that access to quality education will serve as a catalyst for economic and social transformation in Nigeria,” Senator Jibrin stated.
According to Dr. Maikudi Lawan, Secretary of the Postgraduate Scholarship Committee, the program will focus on fields critical to national development, particularly in science, technology, and engineering. The courses covered include M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics Technology, Cyber Security, Data Science, Software Development, Mineral Exploration, and Metallurgical Engineering, among others. In addition, advanced engineering programs such as M.Eng. in Mechatronics and Intelligence Systems will also be funded.
“This scholarship program offers a rare opportunity for bright minds to delve into advanced research and technological innovation. By investing in postgraduate education, we aim to enhance Nigeria’s intellectual capital, foster innovation, and create a pool of skilled experts ready to tackle emerging challenges in various sectors,” Dr. Lawan explained.
Six prestigious universities have been carefully selected for the program, including Bayero University Kano, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, and University of Nigeria Nsukka. These institutions were chosen for their strong academic reputation and expertise in delivering high-quality postgraduate education.
The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend for the duration of the program. Interested applicants have been advised to visit the foundation’s official website to submit their applications, which will be screened by a panel of seasoned academics and professionals.
The move has received widespread commendation from stakeholders in Kano State and beyond. Many have described it as a visionary approach to empowering the youth and addressing Nigeria’s educational and technological gaps. By providing access to higher education both locally and internationally, Senator Jibrin continues to distinguish himself as a leader who prioritizes the welfare and future of his people.
As applications open, hopeful candidates from across Kano State are preparing to seize this life-changing opportunity. With his unwavering commitment to education and human capital development, Senator Barau Jibrin is undoubtedly shaping the future of Kano State and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s progress.
