Details: MTN Scholarship, Digital Training Shape Student’s University Journey

For Joshua Umoh, the transition from secondary school to university brought both financial demands and an opportunity to prepare for a digital economy. After scoring highly in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination, he received a ₦300,000 MTN scholarship, following his participation in the MTN Skills Academy programme, as he shared his experience at SMFest Abuja, holding at Family Worship Center, Wuye, Abuja, on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Umoh, who studies at Nile University in Abuja, said the scholarship helped cover some education-related expenses. He also saw the opportunity to develop skills beyond the classroom, particularly in technology, which he believed would support his education and future career prospects.

“I was motivated to enroll in the Skills Academy because I also wanted to gain something beyond the financial support. I wanted to learn practical digital skills, especially in areas related to technology, that could help me in school and prepare me for future opportunities,” he said.

Through the MTN Skills Academy, Umoh studied digital marketing and e-commerce, areas he selected because of his interest in how businesses use technology to reach customers, promote products and expand their operations.

The online learning format allowed him to study at his own pace, although balancing the courses with other responsibilities required discipline. He managed the workload by dividing the lessons into smaller sections and setting achievable learning targets.

“The biggest lesson I learned was the importance of developing skills outside of school. The programme made me realise that good grades are important, but practical skills are also very valuable,” Umoh said, adding that the experience strengthened his interest in technology and continuous learning.

His experience reflects the objectives of MTN Foundation’s youth development initiatives, which support access to education, digital skills and opportunities for young Nigerians.

The MTN Skills Academy provides free online learning resources, career guidance and digital training designed to prepare young people for employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. The Foundation’s broader youth development portfolio also includes scholarships and other skills-building programmes.

Umoh’s account offers a practical example of how financial assistance and digital training can complement each other during a critical stage of a young person’s education. While the scholarship helped reduce some of the financial pressure associated with starting university, the Skills Academy exposed him to knowledge he believes will remain useful beyond graduation.

He encouraged other young Nigerians to take advantage of similar opportunities, stressing that the benefits extend beyond financial assistance. For him, the lasting value lies in combining educational support with the willingness to acquire practical skills and prepare for future professional demands.