LAGOS – The fourth edition of the MTN Football Scholarship for U-17 players is to commence the screening of players for the South West Zone at the National Stadium, Lagos, on Monday, May 5.
The programme, available only to pupils between the ages of 14 to 17, was fashioned to help indigent but skillful soccer players to combine education and football careers in the U.S.
MTN Scholarship Media Representative, Adesina Adetola, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday that the previous editions have been a success.
Adetola said that apart from on-the-pitch screening, participants were expected to possess a minimum standard of education qualifications recognised by the host country, the U.S.
“The stakes are high, hence the requirements are also high,” he said.
According to him, more than 200 pupils are expected to be enlisted into the programme from the Lagos screening.
He said the students would also be required to sit for the standardised test for most college admissions in the US (SAT), before going to the U.S for the two-year programme.
“Although, the players are Nigeria School Certificate holders, the U.S. education system is different from Nigeria’s, hence, the SAT examination.
“Over the years, MTN Foundation has been looking forward to assist Nigerian soccer-loving youths to make the best of their talents and this project is a product of that vision.
“The project aims to strike a balance between sports and educational pursuits, in a more advanced setting,” he said.
Adetola said that the programme would provide a new lease of life for the selected ones, as it would help them to make better career choices in sports and education. (NAN)
