MTN Bright Scholarship Supports 500 Students and Teachers

MTN Ghana has awarded 500 scholarships to students and teachers under its Bright Scholarship programme for the 2025/26 academic year, reaffirming its commitment to education and sustainable national development.

The package, which covers tuition, accommodation, stipends, and laptops, was presented to 300 students pursuing first degrees in STEM and vocational/technical courses, as well as 200 teachers furthering their studies in public universities across the country.

Beneficiaries were selected from over 3,600 applications nationwide, with 1,200 shortlisted for interviews. In total, students from 42 public institutions benefited, including 187 females, 313 males, and 33 differently-abled students.

CEO’s Remarks

Speaking at the presentation ceremony in Accra, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, described the scholarship scheme as an investment in the dreams of young people and the future of Ghana.

“This is not just about awarding scholarships; it’s about investing in dreams, unlocking potential, and securing the future of Ghana. You are the next generation with great ideas, and this opportunity allows you to be part of building the Ghana you want,” he said.

Mr. Blewett emphasized that education is the key driver of transformation and innovation, yet many young people are often held back by financial difficulties.

“That is why the MTN Ghana Foundation established the Bright Scholarship scheme — to remove barriers and give brilliant students a fair chance to succeed,” he added.

He explained that the scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, stipends, and a laptop to support learning, urging beneficiaries to see it as both a privilege and a responsibility.

“Those of you who succeed must remember to give back. One day, I hope to see a Bright Scholarship graduate standing here as CEO of MTN Ghana. That would be fantastic,” he remarked.

Achievements of the Scheme

Since its re-launch in 2018, the Bright Scholarship has supported over 1,700 students nationwide. Notable achievements include 10 graduates who emerged as valedictorians and best students from their universities, 520 graduates who obtained First Class honours, and 94 graduates who completed their studies with Second Class Upper division.

For the 2025/26 academic year, the awards were selected from a pool of 3,691 applicants, of whom 1,200 were shortlisted for interviews. Ultimately, 500 beneficiaries were chosen, including 300 students pursuing STEM, vocational, and technical courses, as well as 200 teachers upgrading their skills at public universities.

Beneficiaries came from 42 public institutions nationwide, comprising 187 females, 313 males, and 33 differently-abled students.

Looking ahead, the MTN Ghana Foundation aims to support 1,500 students and teachers annually for the next three years, with a focus on STEM and technical education to build skills essential for national development.

Jury Member’s Perspective

Rev. Dr. Lawrence Asare Boadi, a member of the jury for this year’s selection process, described the experience as both humbling and inspiring.

He recounted his own struggles in financing his education up to the PhD level, noting that he once lost an opportunity because he could not pay a bribe demanded for a scholarship.

“Because of my experience, I deeply understand what it means to support brilliant but needy students, and I commend MTN Ghana and the MTN Foundation for this initiative,” he said.

According to him, the two-week interview process revealed the resilience, determination, and passion of applicants despite their financial struggles.

“We ensured the process was rigorous, fair, and friendly. We verified details from families and schools to make sure our decisions were fair and unbiased. It was not an easy task, but today, we are confident that every awardee truly deserves this opportunity,” he noted.

Rev. Dr. Boadi urged the beneficiaries to remain focused and to consider themselves ambassadors of the MTN Foundation.

“Use this platform to give back and inspire others in your families and communities. You are not just beneficiaries; you are future change-makers and stewards of excellence,” he encouraged.

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Minister of Education’s Message

Representing the Minister for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Newman commended MTN Ghana and the MTN Foundation for their consistent investment in education.

Dr. Newman noted that the Bright Scholarship aligns with the government’s vision of expanding access to quality education, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as vocational and technical fields.

“The focus on STEM, vocational and technical education, and teacher development reflects Ghana’s national target of achieving a stronger, innovation-driven economy. This partnership contributes significantly to human capital development,” he said.

He highlighted the increasing enrollment of women in higher education and technical institutions, describing it as a positive trend for national progress.

Dr. Newman also called on MTN to expand the reach of the scholarship to cover more regions, ensuring equitable access across the country.

“We encourage the MTN Ghana Foundation to increase the number of beneficiaries, ensuring that every region benefits from this life-changing initiative. Education is not only a personal gain but a national investment,” he added.

The Ministry, he assured, remains committed to collaborating with private sector stakeholders to bridge educational gaps, promote inclusivity, and prepare Ghanaian youth for leadership in a knowledge-based global economy.

“To the 500 beneficiaries present, you are the future entrepreneurs, scientists, technologists, professors, judges, and CEOs. The future is indeed bright. Shine brightly and use this opportunity to transform your communities, Ghana, and the continent,” Dr. Newman concluded.

Beneficiary’s Gratitude

A scholarship beneficiary, Eugenia Mamele Appiah, expressed her gratitude to MTN Ghana for believing in her and granting her the opportunity.

She said the scholarship would ease the rest of her academic journey and help her achieve her dreams.

“I have been chasing this scholarship since my first year, but it didn’t go through. I am grateful that on my third attempt, I finally made it,” she said.

Source: Isaac Kofi Dzokpo