After Transparent Selection Process, Sen. Harauna Manu Sponsors 30 Youths To India For Fully Funded Postgraduate Studies
The fully funded scholarship covers Master's degree programmes in pure sciences, engineering, artificial intelligence, medicine, and public health across four accredited Indian universities. The scheme, according to Senator Manu, complements the free education policy of Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, which is aimed at broadening access to quality education at all levels.
Speaking during a send-forth ceremony held over the weekend in Abuja, Senator Manu urged the departing scholars to focus on their studies and to serve as responsible ambassadors of both Nigeria and Taraba State.
"It's not yet time to celebrate," he said. "Celebration comes when you return home with your certificates and with stories of hard work and success. Be good ambassadors of Taraba, of Nigeria, and of your families."
Recalling the hurdles encountered during the scholarship's implementation, Senator Manu disclosed that several people doubted the feasibility of the initiative.
"At first I was told it wasn't possible. I said no, I don't believe in impossibility. Let's start the negotiation process," he said. "It took time because I wanted it done properly. We verified every university through the Federal Ministry of External Affairs to ensure they are credible and globally recognized."
He emphasized that the selection process was based purely on merit, with no political or personal interference.
"From the beginning to the end of this process, I never intervened. I don't know any of the students personally. I only insisted that the process must be transparent — they must write exams, and those who scored the highest should be selected," he explained.
Manu said his decision to focus the scholarships on science and technology fields was deliberate.
The lawmaker also commended the scholarship committee members for their integrity and professionalism throughout the exercise.
"Dr. Umar and his team have done a wonderful job. From the selection in Jalingo to the final approval, everything was handled professionally," he noted.
One of the coordinators of the scheme, Professor Mahmood Hamid Umar, lauded Senator Manu's foresight, describing the project as "the first large-scale foreign postgraduate scholarship initiative from Taraba Central."
"This development aligns perfectly with Governor Agbu Kefas' free education policy that is fast gaining momentum in Taraba," Prof. Umar said.
Another coordinator, Dr. Alhassan Umar, described the Haruna Manu Foundation Scholarship as the most comprehensive he had ever helped to design.
"It's the best scholarship I've been involved in packaging. It covers everything — tuition, accommodation, stipends, and welfare. It's a rare privilege and I urge the beneficiaries to make the best use of it," he said.
Also speaking, Hon. Alhassan Hamman Gassol, who represented parents and guardians at the event, thanked Senator Manu for "making history" in Taraba's educational landscape.
"This gesture will never be forgotten. It's the first of its kind in Taraba State," he said. "We assure you, our children are disciplined, focused, and will make you proud."
The event ended with emotional testimonials from some of the beneficiaries — Sanusi Aliu, Patience Joshua, Zinnat, and Hosea Yohanna — who expressed gratitude to Senator Manu and pledged to excel in their studies.
The thirty beneficiaries are expected to pursue advanced studies in various fields across four leading Indian universities, with the hope of returning to Nigeria to contribute to scientific innovation and development in Taraba and beyond.
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