The Ebonyi State Government has approved the extension of its scholarship scheme to enable beneficiaries currently undergoing master’s degree programmes to transition into doctoral studies, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen human capital development in the state.

The approval, granted by the Ebonyi State Scholarship Board, comes nearly one year after Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru launched a landmark education initiative that saw over 200 Ebonyi indigenes sponsored to the United Kingdom for postgraduate studies.

Also, more than 500 others were placed in reputable universities across Nigeria.

Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Leo Oketa, announced the extension of the scholarship in a statement on Saturday.

According to him, several beneficiaries are completing their master’s programmes this month, with others expected to finish by June.

He said the scholars have been directed to formally begin applying to various universities to initiate seamless progression into PhD programmes, in line with institutional requirements.

Oketa described the move as part of a well-structured and long-term strategy rather than a one-off intervention.

The Initiative, he said, was designed to promote academic excellence, leadership development, and sustainable growth by equipping Ebonyi indigenes with advanced knowledge and global exposure.

Oketa noted that Governor Nwifuru’s administration had continued to emphasize capacity building as a cornerstone of its development agenda, prioritizing investments in education over short-term gains or publicity.

He explained that the scholarship scheme reflects a deliberate commitment to preparing a new generation of professionals and researchers who will contribute meaningfully to the state’s future.

Oketa added that the scholarship extension is expected to further enhance the state’s growing pool of highly trained manpower and reinforce Ebonyi State’s position as a strong advocate for education-driven development. (The Guardian)