32 NDDC postgraduate scholars earn distinction at UK university

A total of 32 scholars sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) through its Postgraduate Scholarship Programme have graduated with distinction from Coventry University in the United Kingdom (UK).

These students were awarded their postgraduate degrees across various disciplines during a graduation ceremony held in Coventry on Thursday.

Dr Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the NDDC, praised the graduates for their achievements in a statement released by the Director of Corporate Affairs of the NDDC, Mrs Seledi Thompson-Wakama, in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Ogbuku, who headed a delegation to the event, remarked that the academic excellence displayed by the scholars had brought great honour to the NDDC, the Niger Delta region, and Nigeria in general.

“They are excellent ambassadors of the Niger Delta region.”

“No scholar from the NDDC has ever been associated with any misconduct, which underscores the admirable character of our beneficiaries,” he said.

Ogbuku observed that earlier recipients of the scholarship programme had built a solid legacy and set high standards for upcoming scholars to follow.

He also disclosed that 18 scholars had equally graduated with distinction from Coventry University in 2024.

He stated that the consistent level of success attained through the scholarship initiative over the years reflected the commission’s unwavering dedication to developing human capital.

“Education remains the most powerful instrument for transforming the fortunes of the Niger Delta region.”

“I am therefore delighted to be in Coventry to witness the outstanding performance of our scholars, which also affirms the transparency and merit-based process through which the beneficiaries were selected,” he added.

The Managing Director suggested that scholars who did not attain distinction may have encountered challenges related to limited computer skills.

He pointed out that a lack of computer literacy had posed a serious challenge for some students pursuing studies overseas.

“This is due to the fact that the educational system in the United Kingdom integrates technology extensively and employs blended learning techniques, which may be unfamiliar to many Nigerian students.”

“Henceforth, applicants for the upcoming NDDC Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship must provide proof of computer proficiency,” he stated.

Ogbuku further mentioned that the visit created an opportunity for the NDDC team to explore possible collaborative ties between Coventry University and universities located within the Niger Delta region.