MTN Foundation said since 2007, it has sponsored a total of 457 students on two-year training at the Musical Society of Nigeria.

The foundation said that despite the challenging economic situation, it would continue to support the development of youths due to its commitment and deep responsibility to make good things happen.

The Executive Secretary, MTNF, Odunayo Sanya, said this on Friday at the 17^th graduation of pupils sponsored from the Muson Diploma School of Music in Lagos.

Mrs Sanya said that 2024 had been quite challenging, noting that the Foundation could have stopped the sponsorship but for its commitment.

“The journey has been long, 17 years, and getting stronger over the years, but we will continue to support and be an inspiration to others. You are a gift that we wrapped. MTN Foundation has wrapped you as a gift and we are presenting you to the world so make a vow to be a worthy gift to the world.

“I am happy we saw members of the alumni also give back, even if you do not pay back in MUSON, please continue to give back remember some people also took a chance on you and that is why you are here today. Another thing I will like to say is that at the foundation, we expect that the alumni body will become strong. Over 400 people across the world can do wonders, but you cannot do it except you come together and that is something we would take seriously and support, hoping that the alumni body will make a change and have a voice in Nigeria. It’s been a journey of 17 years. What you are experiencing today is a testament that MTN has at heart, the Nigerian youths,” the MTNF scribe told the graduands.

Also speaking at the occasion, a Director of MTNF, Dennis Okoro, urged the graduands to be the best in whatever they do.

Mr Okoro said, “This programme tends as a launch pitch for talents to blossom, plenty doors for countless opportunities to transcend boundaries and bring about change.”

He said that the foundation had no doubt that the graduands had a chance to transcend nationally and internationally.

“So far, 457 have passed through this programme. Thank you MUSON for accepting our support and for your mentorship,” he said.

In her address, the Director, MUSON/ MTNF School of Music, Banke Ademola, said the school had witnessed 457 students in the MTNF scholarship programme.

Ms Ademola said that MUSON and MTNF were specifically proud of those who had created a niche for themselves locally and internationally, showcasing Nigeria’s rich and diverse culture.

She said that the remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the foresight and generosity of the founding fathers, sponsors and donors.

According to her, they recognise the importance of quality education in music and saw the zeal of Nigerian youths and how the youth often lack opportunity, so they provided well enough the facilities being enjoyed today.

“The year 2024 with its inflation and economic pressures was particularly difficult, but we are indeed still grateful to God. This year has a significant expansion of which 45 students were graced with scholarship from MTNF and small amounts from MUSON,” Ms Adeola said.

According to her, the new 45 students will be experiencing innovative training.

She encouraged the graduands to be the spark that ignited and illuminated the world, “be slow and steady and not explosive, because the world needs your light for a long time.”

Various awards were presented to the graduands from the Alumni, MTNF, donors and sponsors among others.

(NAN)