The Federal Government (FG) has launched a new scholarship program aimed at providing post-graduate educational support to students from Ogoni land, Rivers State.
This initiative aligns with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report recommendations for aiding impacted communities in the Ogoni region, as part of ongoing efforts to address socio-economic and environmental challenges in the area.
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), tasked with implementing the program, emphasized that this scholarship targets human capacity development within Ogoni land, with a strong focus on building a skilled and educated workforce capable of driving sustainable progress in the region.
Professor Zabbey Nenibarini, HYPREP’s project coordinator, highlighted the program’s core values, saying, “This scholarship initiative is grounded in integrity, fairness, and transparency, ensuring each candidate is given equal opportunity to participate and benefit accordingly.”
Professor Nenibarini further explained that HYPREP has instituted various measures to uphold transparency throughout the process.
“We have put in place measures to enforce transparency in the process, and all information you require will be made available through our communication channels,” he said.
The coordinator also underscored the importance of involving community-based organizations and civil society in overseeing the program, noting their critical role in ensuring accountability and providing guidance.
During a workshop held in Port Harcourt, participants were sensitized on the scholarship’s objectives and the procedures for application.
The workshop emphasized empowering Ogoni post-graduate students with the knowledge and confidence needed to engage fully in the program.
“This sensitization is critical because it will equip you with the knowledge needed to participate confidently and effectively,” added Professor Nenibarini.
He assured attendees that the workshop was designed to answer any questions, clarify objectives, and help students understand how advanced education can position them as transformative contributors to Ogoni land and the broader Nigerian society.
HYPREP’s educational support initiative is seen as a significant step forward in fostering human capacity development in Ogoni land, with hopes that it will create lasting positive impacts on the region’s socio-economic landscape.