After six months of rigorous screening and examinations, 30 students from Taraba State have been shortlisted for the Haruna Manu Foundation foreign scholarship scheme for master’s degree programmes in pure sciences across four universities in India.
Speaking during a send-forth ceremony for the beneficiaries in Abuja, former Deputy Governor of Taraba State and Founder of the scheme, Senator Haruna Manu, charged the students to focus on their studies and uphold Nigeria’s image abroad.
“It is not yet time for celebration until you come back with your certificates and make us proud as good ambassadors of Nigeria and Taraba State,” Manu said.
Recalling the challenges faced during the selection process, Manu explained that the scholarship award was driven by his insistence on merit and quality education.
“At first, I was told that it was not going to be possible, but I said no. I don’t believe in impossibility.
“We went through negotiation, verification, and confirmation from the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the universities are genuine and globally recognised,” he stated.
The senator emphasised that the scholarship targets critical fields such as engineering, artificial intelligence, medicine, and public health.
“Those of you going for your master’s are in areas where you can contribute meaningfully to Taraba and Nigeria at large,” he said.
“We deliberately avoided courses in the humanities and focused on pure sciences and technology.”
He also commended members of the selection committee, noting that the process was strictly based on merit.
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“From the beginning to the end of this process, I never intervened. I didn’t know any of the applicants personally.
“I told the committee to select only those who passed the exams, and they did an excellent job,” Manu added.
One of the programme coordinators, Prof. Mahmood Umar, described Manu’s effort as unprecedented in Taraba Central, saying it complements Governor Agbu Kefas’s free education policy that is fast gaining momentum across the state.
Another coordinator, Alhassan Umar, praised the initiative as the best scholarship package he has participated in.
“It’s all-encompassing — from stipends to accommodation and tuition fees. This is a rare privilege, and I encourage all beneficiaries to optimise the opportunity and make us proud,” he said.
Also speaking, a parent, Alhassan Gassol, expressed gratitude to Senator Manu for the initiative, assuring that the students would justify the confidence reposed in them.
“On behalf of the parents, we thank you immensely. This is the first of its kind in the history of Taraba State, and we promise our children will not fail you,” he said.
