PTDF Screens 2,102 Applicants For Overseas PhD Scholarships

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has commenced interviews for 2,102 applicants under its Overseas Scholarship Scheme (OSS), targeting PhD programmes in France, Germany and Malaysia.

Speaking during the screening exercise in Abuja, PTDF’s Deputy General Manager of Education and Training, Mohammed Mustapha, said the interviews, which began last week, are expected to conclude within the week.

He disclosed that out of the total number of applicants nationwide, 912 candidates were being interviewed at the Abuja centre over a five-day period.

Mustapha explained that the final number of successful candidates would depend on budgetary provisions and management decisions.

According to him, the selection process will adhere to the guidelines of the Federal Character Commission, with at least one scholar to be selected from each state.

He added that oil-producing states would receive additional slots.

He noted that the selection process is highly competitive, as candidates are assessed against others from their respective states, with top performers emerging successful.

Representatives of the Federal Character Commission, including State Coordinator John Imeji Uchara and Commissioner Eugene Aleba, were present to monitor the process and ensure transparency, fairness and equity.

One of the applicants, chemical engineer Tanko Fwadwabea, expressed optimism about his chances, explaining that his research focuses on process simulation and blue hydrogen production aimed at reducing emissions and improving utilisation of Nigeria’s natural gas resources.

Another candidate, Cornelia Collins-Onoha, with a background in Geosciences, said his research examines antimicrobial resistance in aquatic environments, particularly in oil-impacted regions, with a view to addressing related public health concerns.

A member of the interview panel, Bashir Aliyu, said the exercise was progressing smoothly, noting that candidates were being assessed based on academic background, research quality, and overall capacity.

The PTDF reiterated that the scheme remains merit-based, aimed at developing skilled manpower to address challenges in Nigeria’s energy sector.