Rhodes Scholarship Scheme to be Re-Introduced in Nigeria

Rhodes Scholarship Scheme is to be Re-Introduced in Nigeria – The Chief Executive Officer of Rhodes Trust and Warden of Rhodes House in Oxford, Mr. Charles Conn has said Nigeria will benefit from Rhodes scholarship, the world’s most preeminent post-graduate scholarship scheme.

According to him, two exceptionally bright students will receive full funding, valued at between £40,000 and £50,000 per annum, to study at the prestigious Oxford University, United Kingdom.

Conn announced the re-introduction of the scheme during the 3rd Business Forum of the Oxbridge (Oxford & Cambridge) Club of Nigeria, facilitated by Afrinvest, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja recently.

He explained that the Rhodes Scholarship covers all university and college fees, a personal stipend for room and board, health insurance and travel, as well as the costs of the Rhodes Programme including those of Rhodes House.

“Depending on the course of study, the total value of the scholarship could range from £40,000 to £50,000 per annum, with the average tenure for a Rhodes Scholar being 2.8 years and 3 – 4 years for PhD courses. Over time, up to four scholars in residence will be supported under each scholarship at a total of approximately £200,000 each year per scholarship, which is sustained by a 4 percent take rate on the endowment funds, he said.”

The managing director of Afrinvest and a Rhodes Scholar, Ike Chioke is driving the 15-year campaign with the Rhodes Trust to reinstate the Nigerian award which led to Conn’s visit to Nigeria as a guest speaker at the Oxbridge Club Business Forum.

According to Chioke, “the Rhodes scholarship is indeed a great opportunity for young Nigerian scholars to fulfill their dreams. As a beneficiary of the scheme, I am passionate about helping young people develop to their full potential through quality education and training. This is the surest way to secure the future of our country and the African continent as a whole.”