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MTN Lights Up the Future: Introducing the Bright Scholars Alumni Network

MTN launches Bright Scholars Alumni Network to harness opportunity

MTN Lights Up the Future: Introducing the Bright Scholars Alumni Network

Ghana's telecom giant MTN has launched the Bright Scholars Alumni Network in Accra, a platform designed to connect over 1,200 scholarship beneficiaries and help them support the next generation of young Ghanaians. The network was unveiled by MTN Ghana's Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Madam Adwoa Wiafe, on behalf of the company's CEO, Stephen Blewitt.

A Platform for Success

The Bright Scholars Alumni Network is a response to the growing need for mentorship and career support among young Ghanaians. Madam Adwoa Wiafe explained that while some young people inherit professional networks, others do not. The Alumni Network is meant to bridge that gap by providing mentorship, CV reviews, job connections, and peer support. "Leadership does not mean simply moving ahead and expecting everyone else to follow you. You must listen, engage, and understand their concerns," said Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Acting General Manager for Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Ghana.

Celebrating the Impact of the MTN Bright Scholarship

The launch of the Bright Scholars Alumni Network celebrates the impact of the MTN Bright Scholarship since its introduction in 2017. The programme has so far supported 1,222 students, including 299 who graduated with first-class honours. The Foundation provided tuition, accommodation support, laptops, and stipends for books. "They represent real lives, real families, real ambitions and young people whose potential might otherwise have been limited by financial circumstances," said Madam Adwoa Wiafe.

Empowering Young Ghanaians

The Bright Scholars Alumni Network is not just a platform for existing scholarship beneficiaries; it also aims to empower young Ghanaians who are yet to benefit from the programme. Mr. Abdallah Ibrahim, General Manager for HR Operations & Analytics at MTN Ghana, noted that the world of work has changed, and continuous learning is now the most important career asset. "You are not defined by your first degree. Having a university degree is important, but your degree should not limit what you can become or the career opportunities you can pursue," he said.

A Brighter Future Ahead

MTN has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting young Ghanaians 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. This move is seen as a positive step towards bridging the gap between education and employment in Ghana. As the country continues to face challenges in the job market, initiatives like the Bright Scholars Alumni Network and the new scholarship programme will be crucial in empowering young Ghanaians to become active contributors to the economy.

Embracing Technology and Innovation

MTN's commitment to supporting young Ghanaians goes beyond just education and employment. The company is also using its platform to promote technology and innovation among the youth. Mrs. Georgina Asare Fiagbenu 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.

As MTN continues to light up the future for young Ghanaians, it is clear that the company's commitment to supporting education and employment will have a lasting impact on the country's development. With the launch of the Bright Scholars Alumni Network and the announcement of new scholarships, MTN is taking a significant step towards empowering the next generation of leaders in Ghana.


Source: Joy Online