Be Good Ambassadors of Nigeria, Taraba, Senator Manu Urges 30 Beneficiaries of Foreign Scholarship Scheme ~ Truth Reporters

...It’s the best scholarship package — Dr. Umar

 

After six months of rigorous screening and examinations, 30 students have emerged beneficiaries of the Haruna Manu Foundation (HMF) foreign scholarship scheme for master’s degree programmes in the pure sciences across four reputable universities in India.

 

Speaking at a send-forth ceremony held over the weekend in Abuja, Senator Haruna Manu charged the beneficiaries to be good ambassadors of both Nigeria and Taraba State, urging them to justify the investment in their education by excelling in their studies.

 

He said:“It’s not yet time for celebration until you return home with your certificates and make us proud as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria and Taraba State.”

 

Reflecting on the journey leading to the final selection, Senator Manu recalled initial doubts about the feasibility of the programme but maintained his resolve to ensure its success.

 

“At first, I was told it was not going to be possible, but I said no, I don’t believe in impossibilities. We started the negotiation process, and that’s why it took time to complete. Some of you were apprehensive, but I insisted we must send our students to recognised universities,” he explained.

 

The lawmaker further disclosed that the universities were thoroughly vetted and verified by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to confirm their credibility and global recognition.

 

“You’re going to universities whose certificates will be recognised not only in Nigeria but worldwide,” he assured.

 

Senator Manu also noted that the focus of the scholarship was deliberately placed on pure sciences and engineering.

 

“When I started this, I said I wouldn’t sponsor people in humanities. Those going for their master’s are in fields such as Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, and Public Health. These are areas where you can meaningfully contribute to Taraba and Nigeria upon your return,” he said.

 

He thanked members of the selection committee for their professionalism and transparency, emphasizing that the process was based purely on merit.

 

“From the beginning to the end, I never intervened. I didn’t know any of the applicants. I said, let them write their exams, mark them, and select those who performed best and I’m happy you did a good job,” Manu added.

 

Also speaking at the event, one of the scheme’s coordinators, Professor Mahmood Hamid Umar, commended Senator Manu for pioneering such a large-scale educational intervention in Taraba Central Senatorial District.

 

“This initiative perfectly aligns with Governor Agbu Kefas’ free education policy that’s fast gaining momentum in the state,” he said.

 

Another coordinator, Dr. Alhassan Umar, lauded the scholarship as the most comprehensive he has ever worked on.

 

“It’s the first of its kind, and without mincing words, it’s the best scholarship package I’ve been involved in. It’s all-encompassing covering stipends, accommodation, and tuition fees. This is a rare privilege,” he noted.

He encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunity and make their benefactor and the state proud.

 

Similarly, Hon. Alhassan Hamman Gassol, who spoke on behalf of parents and guardians, expressed deep appreciation to Senator Manu for the life-changing gesture.

 

“Your Excellency, we thank you immensely. This is a gesture we’ll never forget, the first in the history of Taraba State. We assure you our children are well trained and will not fail you,” he pledged.

 

The event also featured emotional testimonials from some of the beneficiaries, including Sanusi Aliu, Patience Joshua, Zinnat, and Hosea Yohanna, who expressed gratitude to Senator Manu for the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams abroad.