Seventy students from Kano State have embarked on a journey to India to pursue postgraduate studies in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and related fields under the foreign scholarship program of the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin.
The beneficiaries, selected through the Barau I Jibrin Foundation (BIJF), represented the first cohort of this ambitious initiative aimed at expanding access to quality education for young Nigerians. The scholars, drawn from Kano’s three senatorial districts, departed from Malam Aminu Kano International Airport on Sunday.
Senator Barau was present at the airport to bid the students farewell, engaged with them for over an hour in what was both an inspiring and emotional send-off.
Speaking to the beneficiaries, the Deputy Senate President emphasized the importance of the initiative as a step toward addressing the gaps in Nigeria’s education system.
“This scholarship program is not just an investment in your future but also in the future of our country. You have been given an opportunity to study at top institutions and gain the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development,” he said.
He urged the scholars to remain focused, disciplined, and to uphold the image of Nigeria as they pursue their studies. Senator Barau assured them that all logistics for a conducive learning environment had been put in place to ensure their success.
The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude, vowed to excel in their respective fields and make both Senator Barau and Nigeria proud.
The Barau I Jibrin Foreign Scholarship Program, initiated by Senator Barau I. Jibrin through his foundation, is a flagship educational empowerment project aimed at addressing the educational challenges facing Nigeria.
The program seeks to provide talented but underprivileged students with opportunities to gain world-class education and skills in critical fields essential for national development.
The scholarship covered tuition, travel expenses, accommodation, and a stipend for the duration of the beneficiaries’ studies. The first batch of 70 students selected for the program reflected a commitment to equitable representation, with beneficiaries drawn from Kano State’s three senatorial districts.
The scholars are enrolled in top-tier universities in India, renowned for their programs in technology and innovation. These institutions were carefully chosen to ensure that the beneficiaries receive quality education and exposure to global best practices in their fields.
This initiative complements Senator Barau’s broader vision of human capital development, aligned with the Federal Government’s focus on youth empowerment and capacity building.
The program is expected to expand in the coming years, providing more opportunities for Nigerian youths to access higher education and contribute to the nation’s growth.
“Human capital remains the cornerstone of development globally, and empowering our youths is a critical step in achieving national progress. These scholars represent our greatest asset, and I am confident they will return with the expertise needed to move Nigeria forward,” Senator Barau stated.
