MTN Unveils Bright Scholars Alumni Network
Ghana's telecom giant MTN has launched the Bright Scholars Alumni Network, a platform designed to connect over 1,200 scholarship beneficiaries and help them support the next generation of young Ghanaians. The launch ceremony was held in Accra.
Scholarship Legacy Celebrated
The Bright Scholars Alumni Network is a result of the success of the MTN Bright Scholarship, which was introduced in 2017. The programme has so far supported 1,222 students, including 299 who graduated with first-class honours. The scholarship provided tuition, accommodation support, laptops, and stipends for books.
Alumni Network to Foster Mentorship and Career Growth
The Alumni Network is designed to bridge the gap for young people who do not inherit professional networks. It will provide mentorship, CV reviews, job connections, and peer support. Madam Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, said the network aims to "build something that lasts by maintaining a register of mentors, matching scholars with opportunities, and keeping records of impact."
New Scholarships Announced
MTN has reaffirmed its commitment to education by announcing 1,500 new scholarships over three years, with 500 to be awarded this year. The package also includes support for teachers upgrading their qualifications. The company is moving beyond traditional telecommunications to become a digital platform business, and the fastest-growing demand is in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and product management.
Leadership and Unity Urged
Speaking after the swearing-in of the executives, Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Acting General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value, urged them to protect the interests of members, maintain unity, and ensure programmes respond to members' needs. "Leadership does not mean simply moving ahead and expecting everyone else to follow you. You must listen, engage, and understand their concerns," she said.
Productive Use of Technology
Mrs. Fiagbenu also urged Ghanaian youth to use technology productively through platforms like the MTN Skills Academy, which offers courses in cybersecurity, data science, and other digital skills. "Your phone should be a tool for acquiring skills, not just entertainment," she said.
The Bright Scholars Alumni Network is a significant step towards supporting the next generation of young Ghanaians. With its focus on mentorship, career growth, and education, it has the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of its members. As MTN continues to evolve and expand its reach, it is clear that education and skills development will remain a top priority.
Source: Joy Online
