Scholarship winner’s ideas could change education in Nigeria

A Nigerian student's innovative ideas on how to ensure that education is made universal in his country has resulted in a scholarship to Edge Hill University.

The University was one of six institutions to provide tuition and livings costs for one winner of the British Council's Innovation 360 competition, which promotes educational opportunities across Nigeria by actively engaging the youths in creative problem solving tasks.

It was Obiajulu Onuorah's bright ideas and ‘can-do' attitude to make a difference while providing solutions for real life problems facing the educational world that impressed judges.

As a result, he has won a place to study on a full scholarship at Edge Hill on the new MSc Information Security and IT Management programme.

"It was such a tough competition so was ecstatic when I found out that I'd won", said Obi. "I've always wanted to study outside of Nigeria and had been saving up to do a Masters so this has happened much sooner than I'd hoped for. To win the scholarship is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I have so many dreams and so much that I want to do in life and this is a big stepping stone which will be just what I need to get going in my career. The sky is the limit."

Leaving his native country behind wasn't without sacrifice for Obi, who was due to get married in December but had to put his wedding on hold to fulfil his ambitions.

"My fiance was sad but supportive because it is an investment for our future. My family were also very understanding that I had to grasp this great opportunity with both hands," he said.

Since moving to the UK in September, Obi has been impressed by the education system. He explained: "I watch a lot of TV and read the media so I had an idea what to expect when I moved to England but I'm pleased that the way that classes are delivered are even better than I expected. The tutors are really supportive too and I like the fact that it's a campus environment  so I don't feel lost. In fact, where I grew up in Nigeria isn't so different to Ormskirk in that it was quite small and actually a bit cold too, so I'm getting used to the weather here."

Already Obi is finding his course interesting and engaging and is hoping to take part in volunteering work while over here to improve his CV even further.

"Back home I had already started my own business because I have a knack for it and also computing, but now I want to learn as much as I can here so that I can build a stronger IT business in Nigeria and take my country forward in this industry because we are behind most when it comes to technology.

"I'm so grateful for being given this chance and I'm looking forward to spending the next year gaining new skills to help me in my career."