scholarships
From Scholarships to Skills: Global Push to Train Youth
Governments and companies are moving from scholarships to skills training, funding everything from nursing degrees to esports and creative arts.
Governments, universities and companies are widening the path from scholarships to skills, rolling out programs that fund everything from nursing degrees to esports and traditional weaving. The shift marks a broader move by funders to tie education money to employable skills and measurable outcomes.
Arizona State University will open registration for its fall 2026 ASU Combine in the week of Aug. 24, a semester-long competition that awards scholarship dollars to students who compete across more than 35 video games. The program, funded by a gift from the Ultimate Endgamers League to The GAME School, awarded $10,000 in total scholarships this spring.
“This is the only program at ASU where broad-based gameplay skills are recognized and incentivized,” said Pavan Turaga, director of The GAME School.
In Ghana, Google opened applications for 100,000 Google Career Certificate scholarships, distributed through the government-backed One Million Coders Program. The certificates offer flexible online training designed to make participants job-ready in high-growth fields in under six months, with no prior experience required.
The initiative supports President John Dramani Mahama’s goal of training one million Ghaanaians in digital skills by 2030. Google is working with the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations to integrate its certifications into the national framework.
Why the shift matters
The move from scholarships to skills reflects a growing emphasis on employability. Funders increasingly want proof that money produces workers who can fill specific labor gaps.
The trend is visible across regions and sectors. In the Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in the Cordillera Administrative Region is offering scholarships for 21 creative skills, covering levels II to IV. The list includes ballet and performing arts, traditional Filipino embroidery, 3D printing, scriptwriting, radio and audio production, and film and video postproduction.
Other offerings include marble carving, shell craft production, abaca hammock production, artisanal and backstrap handloom weaving, wood and basket weaving, paper mache making, mat weaving, beadwork accessories making and embroidery. Romar Agpes, a senior specialist at TESDA-Benguet, said some programs date to 2019, while most were created in 2025 after Baguio City was designated a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Art.
The Department of Trade and Industry values the Philippine creative sector at PHP2 trillion, about 7 percent of gross domestic product, supporting roughly 8 million jobs.
In Nigeria, OPay expanded its N1.2 billion, 10-year scholarship commitment in 2026 to include the National Innovation Challenge, delivered with Google and the 3 Million Technical Talent program. The OPay Scholars Programme now has more than 1,200 direct beneficiaries and has previously supported students at more than 20 tertiary institutions.
The company’s broader social investment includes Play4aChild, which has reached more than 14,000 direct beneficiaries with educational materials, and a Women Empowerment Programme that has provided skills development and startup assistance to more than 100 women.
In Kenya, the Simon Kathumo Foundation pledged continued scholarships and skills training in Matungulu Constituency. Founder Simon Kathumo said the foundation offers nursing scholarships with Aga Khan University Hospital to students who scored B+ or A in KCSE, and equips young mothers with tailoring, electrical installation and plumbing skills.
For international students, the search for funding still starts with institutions
Colleges and universities remain one of the best scholarship resources for international undergraduates in the United States, where students generally cannot receive federal or state aid. Experts recommend contacting a school’s financial aid office and using search tools such as InternationalStudent.com.
Meredith Twombly, vice president of enrollment management at Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island, said strong applicants communicate effectively, demonstrate leadership and teamwork, and present a consistent academic record.
Several named awards illustrate the range. The Wien International Scholarship Program at Brandeis University, established in 1958, has brought more than 890 scholars from 115 countries to the school. Clark University’s Presidential Scholarship covers full tuition, on-campus housing and food for four years regardless of financial need, while its merit scholarships begin at $32,000 annually.
American University in Washington, D.C., considers international applicants for merit scholarships worth up to $35,000 annually and has expanded its Emerging Global Leader Scholarship to cover full tuition, housing and food for two students, with up to eight others receiving as much as $40,000 annually. Beginning with its fall 2027 entering class, the university will also consider admitted international students for need-based aid.
Applicants must check whether a college is need-blind or need-aware. At a need-aware institution, a student’s ability to pay may factor into admission. Karan Gupta, CEO of Karan Gupta Consulting in India, advised students to build a list mixing need-blind schools with need-aware schools they can afford.
What to watch next
Deadlines and verification will shape who benefits. Students should confirm awards are open to international applicants, check whether a separate application is required, and compare total costs after aid rather than sticker prices.
Experts also warn against submitting AI-drafted essays as original work. Gupta said many universities now permit limited AI use for brainstorming or proofreading, but submitting a substantially AI-drafted essay can violate application rules.
As the fall 2026 ASU Combine opens and Google’s Ghana rollout continues, the broader test will be whether these programs convert scholarship money into durable skills and jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the shift from scholarships to skills?
It refers to funders tying education money to employable skills, such as Google Career Certificates in Ghana, esports scholarships at ASU, and creative skills training through TESDA in the Philippines.
Can international students get scholarships in the U.S.?
Yes. International students generally cannot receive federal or state aid, but colleges and universities offer institutional scholarships, merit awards and need-based grants. Policies vary by school.
What mistakes should scholarship applicants avoid?
Experts say applicants should avoid submitting work that is not their own, exaggerating accomplishments, waiting until the last minute, and submitting AI-drafted essays as original work.
Related Articles
scholarships
Foundation Launches Scholarship for Nigerian Students: Apply Now
Care Wave Foundation launches scholarship for Nigerian students covering tuition, books, accommodation, and stipends. Deadline: November 9, 2026.
The result you want is simple: your school fees paid, your books bought, your accommodation sorted, and a small stipend in your pocket so you can focus on your degree instead of your next meal. That is exactly what the Care Wave Foundation launches scholarship to deliver for Nigerian students who are struggling financially.
The Abuja-based foundation recently announced the Care Wave ARISE Scholarship Programme. It is designed to expand access to tertiary education for students facing financial barriers. If you have ever considered dropping out because your family could no longer afford the fees, this programme is aimed directly at you.
What the Care Wave Scholarship Covers
The foundation said successful applicants will receive support covering tuition, books, accommodation, and stipends. That means the core costs that usually force students out of school are handled.
But there is a condition. You must maintain good academic standing throughout your studies. The scholarship is not a free ride for students who stop attending lectures or fail their courses. You have to keep your grades up.
The foundation operates as a Pan-African initiative. Its broader work includes education access, healthcare and wellbeing, elder care, economic empowerment, social support, and basic needs such as food and water security. Beneficiaries include underserved young people, single-parent families, widowed individuals, and older adults.
Care Wave said its guiding belief is that people do not always lack potential, but sometimes lack access and opportunity. As the foundation put it: “Education should not be a privilege that disappears when a family can no longer afford it.”
How to Apply for the Scholarship
The application process has clear stages. First, you complete an eligibility assessment. Then you submit your documents. A scholarship committee reviews your application. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews before final selections are made.
Interviews are not guaranteed, but you should prepare as if they are. Know your course, your career goals, and why you need the funding. The committee wants to see that you are serious.
The application deadline is November 9, 2026. Eligible applicants must submit all required documents through the foundation’s official application portal before that date. Do not wait until the last week. Portals crash. Documents go missing. Apply early.
The Mentorship Angle
The foundation is also preparing to activate a companion mentorship programme. It will connect young people with professionals and volunteers who will share knowledge, experience, and guidance on education, career development, and personal growth.
This matters more than most students realise. A scholarship can open a door, but many students walk through that door and have no idea what to do next. A mentor can help you choose the right courses, prepare for internships, and avoid career mistakes.
As the foundation said: “A scholarship can open a door. Mentorship can help a young person understand what to do after walking through it.”
What Other Foundations Are Doing
The Care Wave programmed is not happening in isolation. Foundations around the world are launching similar initiatives. The Bay Area Community Foundation in Michigan launched a scholarship offering up to $2,000 for short-term career training in fields like truck driving, nursing assistance, and phlebotomy. That programme targets training that can be completed in one year or less.
In Georgia, the Valdosta State University Foundation launched a regional initiative to establish an endowed scholarship in every county the university serves. The campaign, called Blaze the Trail, targets 41 counties and aims to raise one million dollars.
These examples show a pattern: foundations are stepping in where traditional financial aid falls short. For Nigerian students, the Care Wave scholarship is a direct opportunity.
Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
First, do not submit incomplete documents. The committee will not chase you. If your application is missing required items, it will likely be rejected.
Second, do not ignore the eligibility assessment. It is the first filter. If you do not meet the basic criteria, your application will not move forward.
Third, do not assume you will automatically get the scholarship because you have good grades. Many students with strong results apply. The committee also looks at financial need and your personal circumstances.
Fourth, do not miss the deadline. November 9, 2026, is final. There is no extension mentioned in the foundation’s statement.
How to Prepare Your Application
Start by gathering your documents. You will likely need proof of admission, academic records, and evidence of financial need. The foundation has not listed every document publicly, so check the application portal for the full list.
Write a clear personal statement. Explain why you need the scholarship and what you plan to do with your education. Avoid sob stories. Focus on your goals and how the funding will change your situation.
If you are shortlisted for an interview, practise your answers. Be ready to explain your course choice, your career plans, and how you will maintain good academic standing.
Your Daily Plan from Today
Set aside 30 minutes today to visit the Care Wave Foundation’s official application portal. Read the eligibility criteria. Download the document checklist. Then block two hours this weekend to gather your documents and draft your personal statement. Submit before October ends. That gives you a buffer if something goes wrong. The deadline is November 9, 2026, but students who apply early avoid the panic that comes with last-minute technical problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Care Wave ARISE Scholarship Programme cover?
The scholarship covers tuition, books, accommodation, and stipends. Recipients must maintain good academic standing throughout their studies.
When is the application deadline for the Care Wave scholarship?
The application deadline is November 9, 2026. Applicants must submit all required documents through the foundation’s official application portal before that date.
Does the scholarship include mentorship?
Yes. The foundation is preparing to activate a companion mentorship programme that will connect young people with professionals and volunteers for guidance on education, career development, and personal growth.
Related Articles
- Tinubu: Tough Reforms Necessary to Rescue Nigeria’s Economy
- Trump $500 ACA Refund Checks: What You Need to Know
- JAMB Nov 30 Deadline: Don’t Lose Your 2021–2025 Admission
- iPhone Duo Release Timeline vs iPhone 18 Pro
- Huion Note E Review: Android Tablet for Note-Taking
scholarships
Cybernovr 100% Cybersecurity Scholarships Mark Nigeria at 66
Cybernovr unveils 100% cybersecurity scholarships for Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary. Nine-week CEAP programme, 12 modules, applications close Oct 13, 2026.
Cybernovr Limited has launched a fully funded cybersecurity scholarships programme to mark Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary, offering 100 percent tuition waivers to learners seeking practical cybersecurity skills through its Cybersecurity Education & Awareness Programmed (CEAP).
The nine-week program me is open to applicants at all levels. Selected learners will pay no tuition fees, with the company stating they will commit their time rather than their money.
The initiative lands as individuals, businesses and organization’s lean harder on digital platforms and online services, deepening demand for cybersecurity awareness and skills across Nigeria.
Applications close on October 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. West Africa Time (WAT). Interested applicants can apply through the Cybernovr Academy platform at https://www.cybernovr.com/academy.
Cybernovr, a cybersecurity company that provides professional services designed to complement deployed security products, says the programme focuses on strengthening governance, managing risks and protecting critical assets.
HOW THE CYBERSECURITY SCHOLARSHIPS PROGRAMME WORKS
The programme will run live instructor-led sessions for two hours weekly, alongside access to the Cybernovr Mobile Learning Management System (LMS). Participants will also complete a hands-on capstone project and receive a certificate of completion at the end.
Training covers 12 modules. These include introduction to cybersecurity, identity management, cyber threat awareness, ethical hacking and coding, cyber laws and regulations, and penetration testing.
Other modules are digital literacy and critical thinking, responsible use of social media, data and privacy management, cyber hygiene practices, cybersecurity career paths and a complementary course completion module.
According to Cybernovr, the programme also exposes participants to access control, threat landscapes, offensive security, legal frameworks, vulnerability assessment, data protection, social engineering defence and professional development.
The company said the scholarship is designed to provide participants with foundational and practical knowledge in cybersecurity while promoting digital safety and awareness.
WHY THE TIMING MATTERS
The push comes as cybersecurity training programmes such as CEAP aim to help learners understand common cyber threats, strengthen their digital security practices and explore career opportunities in the field.
For a country where digital adoption is rising across banking, commerce and public services, the skills gap remains a live concern. Programmes that combine awarenes with hands-on practice can lower the risk that individuals and small organisations fall for routine attacks.
Cybernovr said it is passionate about developing young talents through CEAP, framing the independence anniversary scholarship as a talent pipeline rather than a one-off giveaway.
The company’s broader business focuses on complementing cybersecurity products already deployed to organisations, with an emphasis on governance, risk management and critical asset protection.
WHAT LEARNERS GET
Participants move through a structured path: weekly live instruction, self-paced access via the mobile LMS, and a capstone project that tests applied skills. The certificate of completion gives learners a credential to show employers or clients.
The 12-module curriculum mixes technical topics with legal and behavioural ones. Ethical hacking, penetration testing and vulnerability assessment sit alongside cyber laws, data privacy and social media responsibility.
That blend reflects how modern cyber incidents often start with human error rather than sophisticated exploits. Awareness of social engineering defence and cyber hygiene can matter as much as technical controls.
Career-path content is included, signalling that the programme is also a recruitment channel for a sector short on trained hands.
WHAT’S NEXT
With applications set to close on October 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. WAT, prospective learners have a defined window to apply through the Cybernovr Academy platfoprm.
Selected applicants will then begin the nine-week run, with live sessions, LMS access and the capstone project forming the core experience.
For Cybernovr, the scholarship doubles as brand-building and talent development. For Nigeria’s digital economy, it adds a small but targeted injection of trained awareness at a moment when online risk keeps rising.
Where things stand: the cybersecurity scholarships are open, the tuition is zero, and the clock is running toward the October 2026 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Cybernovr cybersecurity scholarships?
The programme is open to applicants at all levels. Selected learners pay no tuition fees and commit their time instead.
How long is the Cybernovr CEAP programme?
It is a nine-week programme featuring two hours of live instructor-led sessions weekly, access to the Cybernovr Mobile LMS, and a hands-on capstone project.
When do applications close?
Applications close on October 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. West Africa Time (WAT). Applicants can apply through the Cybernovr Academy platform.
Related Articles
scholarships
APM Terminals Expands Scholarship Scheme: 2026 Guide
APM Terminals expands scholarship scheme with 102 new awards in 2026. Learn eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for this life-changing opportunity.
If you are a Nigerian undergraduate struggling with tuition, or a student in a host community near Onne, Ogu, or Apapa, the APM Terminals expands scholarship scheme is one opportunity you should not ignore. In 2026, the company awarded scholarships to 102 new beneficiaries across two major programme. The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) aded 52 new beneficiaries, bringing its total to 193. APM Terminals Apapa awarded 50 undergraduates, bringing its total to 151. This is real money and real support for your education.
This guide breaks down the eligibility, benefits, and application steps so you can position yourself for the next round.
What the APM Terminals Expands Scholarship Scheme Covers

The WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria scholarship scheme supports students from host communities and children of employees. In July 2026, 47 students from host communities and 5 children of employees received awards. According to ThisDay, the scheme has produced first-class graduates, some of whom now work for the company.
APM Terminals Apapa runs a separate scholarship for undergraduates from its Apapa host community. It is open to students in public universities and other accredited higher institutions across Nigeria. The thlrd edition in 2026 added 50 new beneficiaries, bringing total support to 151 undergraduates.
The company’s Country CEO, Frederik Klinke, described the scheme as one of its most impactful social sustainability initiatives. He noted that investing in education aligns with the organisation’s purpose of facilitating trade and supporting national development.
Eligibility Requirements and Selection Tips
To qualify for the WACT scholarship, you must be from a host community (such as Onne or Ogu) or be a child of an employee. For the Apapa scholarship, you must be an undergraduate from the Apapa host community enrolled in a public or accredited higher institution.
Academic performance matters. The WACT Managing Director, Courage Obadagbonyi, told beneficiaries that being selected is proof of intelligence, diligence, and dedication. The best-performing student in the 2026 WACT cohort, Ejor Mirabel Emmanuel, was specially recognised.
Here is how to strengthen your application:
– Maintain a strong CGPA. The scheme supports beneficiaries until graduation, provided they maintain required academic standards.
– Prepare your documents early. Proof of community residency, admission letter, and student ID are essential.
– Write a clear personal statement. Explain your goals and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your community.
– Get a recommendation. A letter from a community leader or school official can boost your profile.
According to Punch, beneficiaries remain on the programme until graduation if they keep their grades up. This is not a one-off payment. It is sustained support.
Benefits Beyond Tuition
The scholarship covers financial assistance, but the benefits go further. APM Terminals offers internship opportunities to beneficiaries. Several scholarship recipients have already gained workplace experience through placements with the company.
Oseni Omolara, a 400-level student and 2025 beneficiary, said the programme eased the financial burden on her parents and gave her practical exposure to global business operations. Another beneficiary, medical student Olakunle Oluwafemi, described it as an investment in his future aspirations.
WACT also runs the EngineerHER Programme, a 1-year development initiative for female graduates. It provides practical skills and industry exposure. The WACT Internship Programme gives scholars workplace experience while they study.
According to Vanguard, the scheme has created opportunities for young people to pursue their academic aspirations, with some graduates now employed by the company.
How to Apply and Key Timeline
The WACT scholarship award ceremony held on Tuesday, 21 July 2026. The Apapa scholarship presentation held on Friday in Apapa, Lagos. Applications typically open months before the ceremony. You should start preparing now.
Step 1: Confirm your eligibility. Check if you are from a host community or a child of an employee.
Step 2: Gather your documents. You will need your admission letter, student ID, academic transcripts, and proof of community residency.
Step 3: Watch for announcements. Follow APM Terminals Nigeria and WACT social media pages, and check with your community leaders.
Step 4: Submit a strong application. Focus on your academic record and your community involvement.
Step 5: Prepare for selection. The process is competitive. The 2026 WACT cohort had only 52 slots. The Apapa cohort had 50.
Community leaders like Godfrey Maate, Chairman of the Onne Community Development Committee, have praised the programme. He encouraged the company to sustain its educational initiatives. Adolphus Dasetima, WACT Ogu Community Liaison Officer, urged beneficiaries to serve as worthy ambassadors.
Your First Step Today
Do not wait for the next application window to open before you start preparing. The APM Terminals expands scholarship scheme is competitive, but it is achievable. Start by checking your CGPA and gathering your documents. Speak to your community liaison officer or school advisor about your interest. Follow APM Terminals Nigeria and WACT on social media for announcements. The company has supported 344 students across both programmes so far. You could be next. Take the first step today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the APM Terminals scholarship?
For WACT, students from host communities (Onne and Ogu) and children of employees. For Apapa, undergraduates from the Apapa host community enrolled in public or accredited higher institutions.
How long does the scholarship last?
Beneficiaries remain on the programme until graduation, provide they maintain the required academic standards.
Does the scholarship include internship opportunities?
Yes. APM Terminals offers internship placements to beneficiaries, and several recipients have gained workplace experience through the company.
Related Articles
-
Startups3 weeks ago
What a Successful Dangote Refinery IPO Really Says
-
Trending Entertainment News5 days ago
Taylor Swift Joins Beatles as Only Acts With 100 Weeks at No. 1
-
World News3 weeks ago
Carney Calls U.S. Tariffs a Miscalculation as Canada Retaliates
-
Fintech3 weeks ago
OPay No Dey Comot Nigeria: How to Verify Fintech News
-
Nigerian Business3 weeks ago
Moniepoint POS Network: How to Buy Dangote Shares
-
Fintech3 weeks ago
OPay Investing in People to Build a Better Nigeria
-
Football3 weeks ago
Mexico vs Colombia 2026: Márquez Debut Ends in Defeat
-
Black Celebrities3 weeks ago
Brandi Carlile: Rock Star in Her Prime, On Tour Now


