PTDF Screens 229 Candidates for South-South Post-Graduate Scholarship in Rivers

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has successfully conducted interviews for 229 candidates vying for the 2023/2024 post-graduate scholarship program in the South-South zone. The interviews took place at the Institute of Petroleum Studies (IPS), University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

PTDF, a federal government agency responsible for developing indigenous human capacity and petroleum technology for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, is offering scholarships to candidates pursuing PhDs and MScs. Out of the 229 candidates, 99 are applying for PhDs, while 130 are seeking MSc scholarships.

Ere Iyalla, the PTDF Team Lead for the South-South Local Scholarship Scheme, revealed that 12 panelists were responsible for conducting the interviews. “This is one of our key programs, and the 2023/2024 version continues our efforts to develop top talent,” Iyalla stated, noting that the selection criteria included academic performance, research potential, leadership qualities, and suitability for post-graduate studies.

“The candidates underwent a pre-selection process, ensuring that only the best were invited for the interview,” Iyalla added. The scholarship is part of PTDF’s in-country program aimed at supporting Nigerians studying in local institutions.

Some of the candidates expressed their excitement about the opportunity. Adebayo Ayodeji, a PhD applicant, shared that his research focuses on “Corrosion Monitoring and Prediction in Petroleum Refining Units using Artificial Intelligence (AI).” He described the interview experience as positive and noted the panelists were impressed with his research proposal. “I hope to harness AI to predict and monitor corrosion in the oil and gas industry, which would address a key challenge in the sector,” Ayodeji said.

Another candidate, Mrs. Susan Emerure, an MSc student in Environmental Toxicology at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), Delta State, admitted to being nervous at first but gained confidence during the interview. “The panel asked questions about my field of study to ensure I truly understood my proposal and how it aligns with PTDF’s objectives,” she shared.

The transparent and rigorous selection process continues to reinforce PTDF’s commitment to nurturing talent that can contribute to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry through advanced research and innovation.