By Tunde Alade, Business Correspondent
Sterling Bank has expanded its flagship Beyond Education initiative by adding guaranteed job placements and paid internships for select recipients of its ₦2 billion scholarship programme targeting 600 Nigerian youths.
In a statement this week, the bank revealed that beneficiaries will not only receive tuition support, but also gain structured internship experience—including competitive stipends, professional training, and hands-on mentoring with senior executives across its operations.
Launched on Democracy Day, the Beyond Education campaign is designed to identify and empower promising young Nigerians across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Selection of recipients will be community-driven, with nominations facilitated by both residents and existing Sterling customers.
The first set of award letters is expected to be issued this month, with successful scholars commencing their academic programmes by September.
Commenting on the initiative, Sterling Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Abubakar Suleiman, said: “Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people, and our responsibility is to equip them to lead, innovate, and transform. With this initiative, we have created a launchpad for the next generation of builders and problem solvers.”
He further called on like-minded organisations to support the mission by offering internship placements, job opportunities, and mentorship programmes for beneficiaries.
“This is how we shape a stronger, more inclusive future for our country,” he added.
