Leading digital payment platform, OPay, has taken a major step in youth empowerment and education support by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Calabar (UNICAL) for the implementation of its 10-Year Scholarship Programme.

The official signing ceremony took place at the Vice Chancellor’s office on Wednesday. 

As part of the agreement, 20 outstanding UNICAL students will each receive ₦300,000 yearly, totalling ₦6 million in scholarships this year alone. The initiative is part of OPay’s ₦1.2 billion scholarship scheme aimed at supporting 400 students across 20 Nigerian tertiary institutions over a decade.

Speaking at the event, which was held at the VC’s office on Wednesday in Calabar, Cross River State, the Head of Partnerships at OPay, IK Odiase, emphasised the company’s commitment to creating lasting social impact through education.

“We know the economic realities students face today. This scholarship is not just financial aid, but a stepping stone to a better future, we are not only offering funds, we are opening doors to internship opportunities, job placements, and long-term collaboration.”

Also representing OPay, Community Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager, Itoro Udo, stated that this initiative is only the beginning of deeper engagements with the university.

“This is not a full stop, but a continuation. We are looking at opportunities that will outlast the present and create sustainable value for students and the institution,” He noted.
 
Speaking also, the Marketing Manager, Rhenua Adebo, highlighted the importance of student visibility and engagement.
 
“We are already talking with students. We want them to see their peers benefiting and be inspired. Scholarships are just the start, we are interested in their holistic growth, including sport, digital skills, and visibility on campus.” 
 
UNICAL’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, praised the initiative, calling it a timely intervention amid financial challenges facing students.

Highlighting some of the challenges students face, she said that some students defer or drop out because they can’t pay their charges, noting that OPay’s support will go a long way in ensuring they stay in school and succeed.