By Ovie Okpare
Nigeria’s leading indigenous oil company, Oriental Energy Resources Limited, says application for its 2020/2021 university scholarship scheme for undergraduate students of Akwa Ibom State origin has commenced.
It said entries for the online application closes on 31st August, 2020, saying interested students could apply through the company’s website, www.oriental-er.com.
A statement issued by Oriental Energy’s Head of Community and Government Relations, Dr Uwem Ite, said the scholarship scheme is targeted at eligible undergraduate students from Akwa Ibom State, particularly indigenes of Effiatand Mbo communities.
The statement directed undergraduates from the state to visit its website for full details of the application process, including eligibility criteria and supporting documentation.
It disclosed that the company introduced the online application system last year to ensure transparency, as well as a more efficient and cost-effective application process for intending applicants.
ALSO READ: Ndokwa Youths Threaten To Shutdown Oil Facilities in Delta
The Managing Director of Oriental Energy, Mr Ignatius Ifelayo, according to the statement, noted that the award is the demonstration of company’s resolve to continue to build human capital development of its area of operations especially in Akwa Ibom State.
“The underlying philosophy behind our social investment is to create sustainable footprints through projects and programs that improve the general quality of life in communities within our area of operation and for the people Akwa Ibom State in general.
“Our delivery strategy creates room for host community ownership to ensure sustainability. As such, we place emphasis on social investment initiatives that respond to stakeholder needs”, Ifelayo, in the statement said.
It revealed that applicants for the scholarship scheme are expected to have obtained admission for undergraduate studies in a recognised Nigerian university, adding that shortlisted candidates will be invited via e-mail for an aptitude test.
“Based on test results, awards are made to successful applicants for a maximum duration of four (4) years, subject to continuous satisfactory academic performance”, it added.
The statement further disclosed that Oriental Energy currently focusing its social investments in education, community health and enterprise development, noting that over 1000 students have benefited from the scheme.
“In addition, Oriental Energy is currently working towards completing a science laboratory complex at Community Grammar School, Ebughu in Mbo LGA, Akwa Ibom State.
“The solar-powered building and associated infrastructure will have WAEC-standard equipment and accessories for the study and learning of the three core science subjects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics by students before the end of this year”, the company further revealed.