The Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation has confirmed plans to launch a nationwide scholarship programme targeting 1,000 indigent but exceptionally talented Nigerian youths in technology, in a move designed to deepen the country’s digital talent pipeline and strengthen its global competitiveness.
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The initiative, executed in collaboration with TD Africa, Konga Group, Zinox Technologies, and Task Systems, will formally open its application portal on April 27, 2026, following a slight shift from the earlier announced April 22 date. Organisers said the adjustment was necessary to complete final technical enhancements that will guarantee a secure, seamless and transparent application process for candidates across the country.
The scholarship scheme was first unveiled on February 22, 2026, by Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group, as part of activities marking his 70th birthday. Rather than host a ceremonial celebration, Ekeh redirected resources towards what he described as a long-term national investment—funding university education for bright but financially disadvantaged Nigerians to study Computer Science in federal institutions.
At the time, Ekeh emphasised that the programme goes beyond philanthropy and is structured as a strategic intervention in Nigeria’s human capital development. “Our goal is to nurture a new generation of highly skilled technology professionals who will support both the public and private sectors, while positioning Nigeria more competitively in the global digital economy,” he said.
The initiative builds on a legacy that has seen over 6,700 Nigerians trained by Ekeh and his affiliated companies over the past four decades. Industry observers note that his contributions—from pioneering indigenous computer production to driving large-scale digital transformation projects—have played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s technology ecosystem.
According to the organisers, beneficiaries of the scholarship will receive more than tuition support. The programme is designed as a full ecosystem that integrates mentorship, technical training and real-world industry exposure. Participants will be mentored by senior professionals within the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), alongside access to infrastructure and platforms provided by partner organisations.
This multi-layered approach, the Foundation noted, is intended to ensure that beneficiaries graduate with both academic knowledge and practical, market-relevant skills. It also aims to bridge the long-standing gap between theoretical learning and industry readiness, a challenge that continues to affect Nigeria’s broader workforce development.
By leveraging the combined capabilities of its partners, the programme is expected to produce a new cadre of tech professionals equipped to drive innovation across sectors including finance, healthcare, education and public administration. Analysts say such interventions are critical at a time when demand for digital skills continues to outpace supply both locally and globally.
Ekeh’s broader vision, stakeholders say, reflects a consistent focus on building sustainable and disruptive capacity within Nigeria’s economy. His investments in digital infrastructure, local manufacturing and talent development have positioned the country as an emerging force within Africa’s technology landscape.
As the April 27 launch date approaches, prospective applicants have been advised to access the application portal via the Konga website, where a dedicated Foundation banner for the “1000 Tech Scholarships Awards” will host registration details and participation guidelines. The organisers added that the selection process will be strictly merit-driven, inclusive and transparent, with representation expected from all regions of the country.
The programme signals a renewed push by private sector leaders to complement government efforts in addressing Nigeria’s skills deficit, particularly in high-growth sectors where the future of work is increasingly defined by technology.
