Nigerian scholar and social impact consultant, Oreoluwa Ojo, has been awarded a fully funded scholarship to pursue an MPhil in Development Studies at the prestigious University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.
Ojo, a Development Studies student, social impact and communications consultant, and gender equality advocate, shared the news on her LinkedIn page, reflecting on a remarkable journey that saw her receive not one, but two fully funded offers for her master’s program — from the Hertie School in Berlin and the University of Cambridge.
According to her, the scholarship from Hertie came as a surprise after her initial application for full funding had been rejected. “Then, in June, I got a call saying I had been selected for a fully funded place for the full two-year program,” she wrote. Having prepared to relocate to Germany, she began planning for her studies there.
However, just a few weeks later, in July, she received an even more life-changing message — an offer from the University of Cambridge, accompanied by a full scholarship to study for an MPhil in Development Studies.
Faced with two prestigious offers, Ojo chose Cambridge, citing its global reputation, academic excellence, and powerful alumni network as key factors in her decision. “The Hertie program was incredible, too,” she noted, “but the two-year length and the requirement to learn German added layers of complexity I wasn’t ready to take on.”
Reflecting on her experience, Ojo shared three key lessons from her journey:
“Persistence pays off. Even if one door closes, another may open.
Timing matters. The right opportunity comes at the right time, not always when we expect it.
Trust yourself. Decisions can be difficult, but weighing options and listening to your instincts is key.”
Ojo’s story has inspired hundreds of young professionals and aspiring scholars across Africa who follow her advocacy work and educational journey. Her achievement not only highlights her academic excellence but also reinforces the growing recognition of Nigerian scholars on the global stage.
“I am beyond thrilled to start my MPhil in Development Studies at Cambridge,” she wrote. “I can’t wait to share my journey over the coming year.”
Her success reflects the power of perseverance, self-belief, and a commitment to lifelong learning — values she continues to champion in her work advancing gender equality, social impact, and youth empowerment across Africa.
