The Rhodes Scholarships for West Africa was formally launched in Lagos recently. Under the scheme, remarkably brilliant students from Nigeria, Ghana and other countries in the sub-region will be given opportunity to study at the prestigious University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
The historic event which is meant for young men and women aged 19-25 from across countries in West Africa was hosted by Charles Conn, CEO of the Rhodes Trust, and attended by international and West Africa donors, and university leaders, who have generously supported the scholarship scheme.
“Our aspiration is to identify and support innovative, energetic and ethical young leaders in West Africa,” Conn said during the launch. “We see the value of additional cultural diversity in our cohorts of scholars every day and they learn from each other in profound ways. The new Rhodes Scholars from West Africa will contribute significantly through sharing their skills, experiences and energy with their peers at Oxford and we look forward to welcoming them to Rhodes House in October 2018.”
Ike Chioke, Managing Director of Afrinvest (West Africa) Limited and a Rhodes Scholar, has been appointed as the Rhodes National Secretary for West Africa. Also named Strategic Adviser for the West Africa region is Tope Folarin, award-wining writer and a former spokesperson for Google.
On the choice of Chioke as National Secretary for West Africa, Conn noted: “For many years Ike has been such a strong supporter of the reinstatement of the Rhodes Scholarship for West Africa. That, coupled with his knowledge of Nigeria, Ghana and the entire sub-region, makes him the standout choice for the role. His sterling reputation, deep insight, vast network and unwavering commitment will, no doubt, be very crucial as we implement together the important mission of reinstating the Rhodes Scholarships for exceptional students in West Africa.”
The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards supporting exceptionally bright students from around the world to study at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom. It is the oldest and the most prestigious international scholarship programme in the world, which aims to nurture public-spirited leaders for the world’s future.
Established at Oxford University in 1903, it selects creative young leaders with a commitment to serving others. The new round of applications will open in early summer 2017.