UK’s Loughborough University to Expand Scholarships for Nigerians through PTDF Partnership
Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF)
Loughborough University in the United Kingdom is collaborating with the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to boost scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students. The partnership is focused on fields like oil, gas, renewable energy, and public health—areas that are vital for Nigeria’s development.
Capacity Building & Long-Term Impact
Speaking in Abuja, Prof. Sam Grogan, Loughborough’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Student Experience, emphasized that the goal is not a one-time offer. “We’re not interested in being here for one year and not coming back. What we’re interested in is getting in for a long-term, sustainable relationship that makes a long-term difference to the world,” he said.
The scholarships aim to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity by building a pipeline of skilled professionals who can drive innovation in energy and health sectors. Options include full scholarships, short-term courses, and postgraduate programmes.
Why Loughborough?
The university is ranked among the top 10 in the UK and number one globally for sports-related programmes. Nearly 50% of its students undertake industry placements, helping them secure competitive jobs after graduation.
Affordable and Inclusive
Florence Mutero, Loughborough’s Global Engagement Officer and a former student, said tuition ranges between £26,000 and £32,000 per year, with living costs lower than other major UK cities. She highlighted several scholarship options for African students:
20% “Creating Better Futures” tuition discount
African Development Scholarship
Global Impact Scholarship
Subject-specific and sports scholarships
Computer Science Scholarship for underrepresented groups (Black students, women, and persons with disabilities)
Health Research Collaboration
Prof. Amanda Daley, a Professor of Behavioral Medicine, stressed the university’s interest in joint research with Nigeria, especially as non-communicable diseases rise in both countries. Nigerian students are not only learners but contributors to Loughborough’s academic growth.
“We’re not interested in being here for one year and not coming back. What we’re interested in is getting in for a long-term, sustainable relationship that actually makes a long-term difference to the world.” — Prof. Sam Grogan, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Loughborough University
How to Benefit
Nigerian students interested in these opportunities should:
Visit Loughborough University’s website for scholarship information.
Monitor PTDF announcements for scholarship openings.
Apply early and ensure eligibility for targeted scholarships, including those based on merit or special categories like sports or tech.
This partnership between Loughborough University and PTDF is more than a scholarship—it’s a chance for Nigerian students to gain global skills and return home to contribute meaningfully to national development.
