The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) scholarship scheme has attracted an impressive 1,643 applicants seeking funding for MSc and PhD programs. This information was shared by Mr. Tajudeen Ibiyeye, Chief Officer and Team Leader for the South West during this year’s scholarship interview held at the Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Ibadan.
Breakdown of Applicants
According to Mr. Ibiyeye, the 1,643 applicants represent a diverse pool of candidates from various universities across Nigeria. Specifically, there are 255 applicants from the South West region, which includes 185 MSc and 70 PhD candidates. The scholarship program covers a wide range of fields, including engineering, science, management, geoscience, and ICT.
Selection Process
Mr. Ibiyeye emphasized the transparency of the selection process, stating that to qualify, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Hold a first degree with a minimum of second class (Upper Division)
- Possess strong O’ Level results
Once the applications are shortlisted, candidates will undergo interviews with a panel of experts to determine the most suitable applicants for the scholarships. “Our aim is to select candidates who will add value to the oil and gas sector, reflecting the renewed hope expressed by the President,” he remarked.
Final Decisions
While the PTDF will provide recommendations for the best candidates, the final decision on the number of successful applicants will rest with the management of the PTDF. Mr. Ibiyeye noted that the panelists chosen for the interview process come from various fields and are not PTDF staff, ensuring an unbiased evaluation of the candidates.
This scholarship initiative aims to cultivate a skilled workforce for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, contributing to its overall growth and sustainability.