39 students graduate from MTNF-MUSON music scholarship program

Thirty-nine students have graduated from the MUSON School of Music Diploma Programme. This marks 20 years of working together between the MTN Foundation and the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) to support music education.

These graduates are from the programme’s 19th set. They finished a two-year diploma course that MTN Foundation fully funded. The official graduation ceremony took place on July 7 and 8 at the Shell Hall, MUSON Centre in Lagos. Graduating students performed along with the MUSON School Orchestra during the event.

The MUSON School of Music Diploma Programme offers training in music performance, theory, and ensemble practice. Students can choose specialisation in instruments such as piano, violin, cello, flute, saxophone, voice, and percussion. They gain hands-on experience by taking part in choirs, orchestras, and concert bands.

Since 2006, the MTN Foundation has provided scholarships for students in the programme. This support covers tuition, learning materials, and transportation. The foundation says over 550 students have completed the programme through this partnership.

At the ceremony, Mosun Belo-Olusoga, Chairman of the MTN Nigeria Foundation, spoke about the music industry. She said, “It is a powerful engine for cultural identity, social cohesion, and economic growth.”

Emeka Nwokedi, Acting Director of the MUSON School of Music, talked about how the partnership helps aspiring musicians. He said, “Talent exists everywhere, but access does not always exist.” Mr Nwokedi added that the support lets young musicians focus on improving their skills and getting ready for their careers. He also mentioned that many graduates have gone on to have successful careers and further studies in Nigeria and abroad.

The ceremony included awards from the MTN Foundation for three graduating students who showed the foundation’s five core values. Michael Anieze received the first prize. Ganiyu Ajakaye took second place, and Dorcas Jimoh placed third. Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of the MTN Nigeria Foundation, presented the awards along with members of the foundation’s board.

Additionally, Louis N. Mbanefo, Chairman of the MUSON Board of Trustees, announced that Princess Banke Ademola will become Director Emeritus when she retires at the end of the academic year.

This graduation ceremony is an important milestone in the ongoing partnership between the MTN Foundation and MUSON to support music education in Nigeria.