Scholarship

Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) Scholars Program 2023

The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) Scholars Program 2023 is an exceptional opportunity for talented Nigerian students to accelerate their careers and acquire valuable professional skills. This in-depth guide provides all the information you need to successfully apply for and participate in the NHEF Scholars Program 2023. We’ll cover the various components of the program, eligibility criteria, application process, resources available, and much more.

Introduction to the Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF)

The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of higher education in Nigeria and empowering Nigerian students. Established in 2014, NHEF aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry by providing students with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to succeed in the global marketplace.

The NHEF Scholars Program is one of the foundation’s flagship initiatives, designed to identify and support talented Nigerian students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to community service. Since its inception, the program has helped hundreds of students gain access to internships, professional development, and networking opportunities, laying the groundwork for successful careers.

Overview of the NHEF Scholars Program 2023

The NHEF Scholars Program 2023 is an early career-accelerating initiative that offers a range of opportunities for selected students from partner universities in Nigeria. The program includes the following components:

Orientation Week

Participants will undergo a week-long orientation program designed to introduce them to the NHEF Scholars community, the program’s objectives, and the expectations placed upon them. The orientation week also includes workshops, team-building exercises, and networking events.

Career Development Training

Throughout the program, scholars will participate in career development training sessions focused on essential skills such as effective communication, leadership, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship. These sessions aim to equip students with the tools needed to excel in their chosen fields.

Internship Placement

NHEF Scholars will be placed in internships lasting 6-8 weeks with one of the NHEF Partner Firms. These internships provide students with hands-on experience in their respective industries, allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the program.

Continuous Personal and Professional Growth

The program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to ensure continuous personal and professional development. Scholars will have access to mentorship, networking events, and resources that will help them achieve their career goals.

Eligibility Criteria for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023

To qualify as an NHEF Scholar, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  1. Be a penultimate student at one of the NHEF Partner Universities, i.e., 300 Level students studying a 4-year course or 400-level students studying a 5-year course.
  2. Demonstrate academic excellence, as evidenced by a strong academic record and positive evaluations from faculty members.
  3. Exhibit a commitment to leadership, community service, and philanthropy, as demonstrated through participation in extracurricular activities and involvement in community projects.
  4. Show a dedication to long-term career development and a willingness to actively engage in the program’s activities.

The NHEF Partner Universities include:

  1. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
  2. Bayero University, Kano
  3. Kwara State University
  4. University of Ibadan
  5. University of Lagos
  6. University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  7. University of Port Harcourt

Application Procedure for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023

The application process for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023 is straightforward and user-friendly. To apply, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the NHEF application portal at https://portal.thenhef.org/.
  2. Register and create an account with your first and last name, email address, phone number, and password.
  3. Verify your email address by clicking the link sent to your inbox.
  4. Log in using your email and password.
  5. Click on the Scholars Program application tab from the dashboard.
  6. Fill in all required bio-data and answer the program essay questions.
  7. Upload a one-page CV, a one-page Cover Letter, and your most recent Statement of Result (all in PDF format).
  8. Review and submit your application.

Important Dates for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023

Applicants must adhere to the following deadlines and timelines for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023:

  • Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. (WAT) on May 26, 2023.
  • Selection Process: After the application deadline, the NHEF team will review all submissions and select the most qualified candidates based on the program’s eligibility criteria.
  • Notification of Acceptance: Successful applicants will be notified via email after the selection process is completed. Be sure to check your email regularly for updates regarding your application status.

Application Resources and Support

To help you navigate the application process, NHEF provides several resources and support materials, including:

  1. How to Write a Good CV and Cover Letter: Visit https://www.thenhef.org/getting-started/ for tips and best practices on crafting a standout CV and cover letter.
  2. Answers to Frequently Asked Questions: Access the FAQ section at https://www.thenhef.org/faqs/ for answers to common questions about the NHEF Scholars Program and the application process.
  3. Industry Areas & Partner Firms: Learn more about the various industries and partner firms involved in the NHEF Scholars Program at https://www.thenhef.org/industry-areas/.

Benefits of Participating in the NHEF Scholars Program 2023

Participating in the NHEF Scholars Program 2023 comes with numerous benefits, including:

  1. Internship Opportunities: Gain valuable work experience and industry exposure through internships with leading Nigerian companies.
  2. Professional Development: Enhance your employability with career development training sessions, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
  3. Leadership Skills: Develop your leadership potential through workshops, team-building exercises, and community service projects.
  4. Networking: Build a strong professional network by connecting with fellow NHEF Scholars, alumni, mentors, and industry professionals.
  5. Global Impact: Contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development by applying your skills and expertise in your chosen field.

NHEF Partner Firms and Industry Areas

The NHEF Scholars Program partners with a diverse group of firms across various industries in Nigeria. These partnerships provide students with internship opportunities and exposure to a wide range of career paths. Some of the industries represented in the program include:

  1. Banking and Finance
  2. Consulting
  3. Engineering
  4. Health Care
  5. Information Technology
  6. Law
  7. Media and Communications
  8. Oil and Gas
  9. Pharmaceuticals
  10. Real Estate

For a complete list of NHEF Partner Firms and industry areas, visit https://www.thenhef.org/industry-areas/.

Testimonials from Previous NHEF Scholars

Many past participants of the NHEF Scholars Program have attributed their career success to the valuable experiences, skills, and connections gained through the program. Here are a few testimonials from previous NHEF Scholars:

  • “Through the internship placement, I gained hands-on experience that has given me a competitive edge in the job market.”
  • “The NHEF Scholars Program was a life-changing experience that opened doors to numerous opportunities and helped me develop personally and professionally.”
  • “The mentorship and networking opportunities provided by the NHEF Scholars Program have been invaluable in helping me navigate my career path.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the NHEF Scholars Program 2023

1. Can students from non-partner universities apply for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023?

No, only penultimate students from the NHEF Partner Universities are eligible to apply for the program.

2. Can I apply for the NHEF Scholars Program 2023 if I have already graduated?

No, the program is specifically designed for penultimate students who are in their 300 Level (4-year course) or 400 Level (5-year course) at the time of application.

3. What documents do I need to submit with my application?

You will need to upload a one-page CV, a one-page cover letter, and your most recent Statement of Result in PDF format.

4. How will I know if my application has been submitted successfully?

You will receive a confirmation email, a message on your dashboard, and the application tab on the dashboard will no longer be accessible if your application is submitted successfully.

5. Can I apply for the NHEF Scholars Program more than once?

Yes, if you are not selected as a scholar in a given year, you can reapply in the following year if you still meet the eligibility criteria.

6. Can I defer my participation in the program if I am selected?

No, the NHEF Scholars Program is designed for a specific cohort of students each year, and deferrals are not permitted.

Conclusion

The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation (NHEF) Scholars Program 2023 is a unique opportunity for talented Nigerian students to accelerate their careers and make a lasting global impact. Be sure to apply before the deadline on May 26, 2023, at 11:59 PM WAT. Good luck with your application, and we hope to see you as a part of the NHEF Scholars community!

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