1,643 PhD and MSc Students Compete for PTDF Scholarships

1,643 PhD and MSc Students Compete for PTDF Scholarships

A total of 1,643 PhD and MSc applicants from various universities across Nigeria are vying for the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) scholarship.

This was revealed by Mr. Tajudeen Ibiyeye, Chief Officer and Team Leader for the South West during the interview process for the 2024 in-country PTDF scholarship scheme, held at the Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Ibadan.

Ibiyeye explained that this year, 255 applicants are from the South West, with 185 seeking MSc scholarships and 70 applying for PhD programs. The scholarship covers a wide range of fields, including engineering, science, management, geoscience, and ICT.

“The selection process is transparent,” Ibiyeye said. “Applicants must be Nigerian, hold a second-class upper degree, and have good O’Level results. After shortlisting, the candidates face a panel to ensure the best are chosen.”

When asked about the number of successful candidates, Ibiyeye stated that the decision rests with PTDF management. He also noted that the interview panelists are drawn from various fields and are not PTDF staff, with Federal Character Commission officials overseeing the process to ensure fairness.

Several applicants shared their experiences. Ridwan Kayode, an MSc Computer Science student from Obafemi Awolowo University, said he learned about the scholarship via social media and was guided by a friend who had previously received the award. Olufemi Okunowo, a third-time applicant, expressed hope to finally secure a scholarship for his PhD, while Yetunde Oriji from the Federal University of Technology Akure described the interview process as thorough and strict.