Sterling Bank boosts N2bn scholarship with guaranteed jobs
Sterling Bank towers
Sterling Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to shaping Nigeria’s future workforce by announcing a significant expansion of its “Beyond Education” initiative.1
The bank is now offering paid internships and guaranteed job opportunities to select beneficiaries of its recently announced N2bn scholarship fund for 600 young Nigerians.
This strategic move, according to a statement from the bank on Saturday, builds upon the initial scholarship program, transforming it into a comprehensive talent development pipeline.
The bank said that the initiative aims to equip graduates with practical, hands-on experience in vital sectors such as banking, technology, customer service, and risk management.
Sterling Bank Chief Executive Officer, Abubakar Suleiman, in the statement emphasised the bank’s driving philosophy, saying, “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. This is the work that moves a nation forward. This is the path we have deliberately chosen as an institution.”
Beyond this landmark initiative, Sulaiman said Sterling Bank’s dedication to real-world impact is deeply ingrained in its retail strategy.
“In April, the bank made headlines by becoming the first Nigerian bank to abolish transfer fees for individual customers, resulting in over N600m in collective savings within just three months. Furthermore, its “AlwaysOn” initiative provides eligible customers with instant access to a N1,000,000 cash advance, offering a crucial financial safety net.
“Sterling Bank stands as a leading financial institution in Nigeria, driven by a mission that extends beyond mere profitability. Operating at the intersection of finance and national progress, the bank continues to set a benchmark for purposeful leadership.
“Sterling Bank is now extending an invitation to other forward-thinking companies across various industries to join this vital effort by offering internships, jobs, or mentorship opportunities to scholarship recipients. This collaborative approach presents a unique opportunity for employers to contribute to shaping a more inclusive and productive future for Nigeria”, Suleiman said.
Interns under this expanded program will receive competitive stipends, benefit from structured formal training, and gain invaluable insights through direct collaboration with senior leaders across the organization.
Since adopting its “HEART” strategy (Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation), Sterling Bank has demonstrably redefined the role of a financial institution in national development. Its investments in these critical sectors have positively impacted over 30 million Nigerians, ranging from deploying smart health booths in remote communities to facilitating digital upgrades in public schools, providing agricultural support systems, implementing rural energy solutions, and investing in electric mobility infrastructure.
The “Beyond Education” campaign, launched on Democracy Day, continues to gain nationwide traction. Scholarship nominees are being selected from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory through a transparent process led by community members and Sterling Bank customers.
