Tunji Olowolafe Foundation Commits ₦1 Billion to Fund Miva Open University Scholarships for 1,000 Students

Tunji Olowolafe Foundation partners with Miva Open University to launch a ₦1 billion scholarship fund supporting 1,000 students over five years.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 11, 2026, 11:38 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from GUARDIAN

A Strategic Investment in Digital Human Capital

The Tunji Olowolafe Foundation has formalized a major philanthropic partnership with Miva Open University, committing ₦1 billion to establish the Gbemisola Olowolafe Miva Scholarship. This initiative is structured as a five-year program designed to bridge the educational gap for underserved populations by providing full tuition support for 1,000 students. By focusing on Nigeria’s first operational private online university, the foundation aims to leverage technology-enabled instruction to empower a new generation of leaders with the skills necessary to navigate a modern, digital economy.

Strict Eligibility and Selection Criteria

To ensure the funds reach the most deserving candidates, the scholarship committee has outlined a rigorous set of requirements. Applicants must first secure a valid admission offer from Miva Open University and provide comprehensive documentation proving financial need. Beyond academic transcripts, the selection process places a heavy emphasis on personal statements that detail career goals and prior involvement in community service or leadership roles. This holistic approach ensures that the scholarship recipients are not only academically capable but also socially responsible individuals.

The Vision of Educational Equality

Sim Shagaya, the founder and chancellor of Miva Open University, emphasized that the partnership is rooted in the belief that education should serve as a national equalizer rather than a gatekept privilege. During the memorandum of understanding signing ceremony, Shagaya noted that the ultimate goal is to create a Nigeria where every qualified student can access world-class resources regardless of their economic background. This vision aligns with the university's broader mission to provide flexible, accessible learning options that allow students to pursue degrees without the constraints of traditional brick-and-mortar institutions.