Chidinma Iroegbu & Esther Oseyiomon
A new fully funded scholarship initiative aimed at widening access to higher education and health training has been launched for Nigerian students by the Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education at King’s College London.
The programme offers successful applicants full tuition support through a one-year Foundation Certificate in Applied Health and is designed to create alternative pathways into tertiary education for young Nigerians who have completed secondary school but are yet to gain university admission.
Applications for the programme are currently open and will close on June 25, 2026, while successful candidates are expected to commence studies on September 14, 2026.
According to the organisers, the scholarship is targeted at Nigerian students who possess WAEC or NECO qualifications with a minimum grade of C6 and are not presently enrolled in any higher institution.
Participants admitted into the programme will undertake eight core courses covering Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Data Analysis, Applied Health Sciences, Applied Critical Thinking, and English for Scientific and Academic Purposes.
The programme will be delivered entirely online using mobile-compatible and low-data digital technology, a model designed to make participation accessible to students across different parts of Nigeria without the need for relocation.
Speaking on the initiative, Vice President (International, Engagement and Service) at King’s College London, Prof. Funmi Olonisakin, described the programme as an opportunity to extend world-class education to students across Africa while expanding access to quality learning.
She noted that the initiative reflects the institution’s broader commitment to ensuring education serves communities and creates opportunities for young people regardless of economic circumstances.
The Centre also disclosed that applicants experiencing financial hardship, displacement or significant caregiving responsibilities would receive special consideration during the selection process. Assessment, it added, would focus on academic potential, community engagement and commitment to public service.
Executive Director of the African Leadership Centre, Dr. Shuvai Nyoni, said the scholarship demonstrates the value of partnerships between African institutions and international universities in creating more inclusive educational opportunities.
Also speaking, Coordinator of the ABC Continental Hub in Nairobi, Dr. Adeoti Dipeolu, said early interest in the programme had been encouraging and reflected growing demand for accessible higher education pathways.
Upon completion, graduates of the Foundation Certificate will become eligible to progress into undergraduate degree programmes, diploma courses, technical training opportunities and health-related career pathways after completing a community health capstone project.
The initiative is expected to broaden educational access for Nigerian youths while equipping participants with foundational skills needed for future academic and professional advancement.