Nigerian secondary school graduates aspiring to pursue careers in healthcare have been offered a new opportunity as the Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education at King’s College London has opened applications for a fully funded Foundation Certificate in Applied Health.
The one-year programme, scheduled to commence on September 14, 2026, will be delivered entirely online and includes full scholarships covering tuition fees for successful applicants from Nigeria and other countries across Sub-Saharan Africa. Applications are open until June 25, 2026.
The initiative is designed to expand access to higher education and healthcare-related career pathways for academically talented young people whose aspirations may have been limited by financial constraints or lack of educational opportunities.
According to the organisers, the Foundation Certificate targets secondary school graduates with strong academic credentials who have not yet secured admission into tertiary institutions. The programme has been optimised for mobile devices and low-data usage, allowing participants from diverse socio-economic backgrounds and remote locations to engage effectively in their studies.
Students will complete eight core modules, including Biology, Physics and Chemistry, Mathematics and Data Analysis, English for Scientific and Academic Purposes, Applied Critical Thinking, and Applied Health Sciences. The programme will conclude with a capstone project focused on addressing a real-world health challenge within participants’ local communities.
Speaking on the initiative, Funmi Olonisakin said the programme reflects the university’s commitment to extending its academic expertise in service of communities across Africa. She noted that barriers such as geography, financial limitations and family circumstances should not determine access to quality education.
The Centre said it particularly welcomes applications from young people who have experienced financial hardship, displacement or significant caregiving responsibilities. Selection will be based on academic potential, involvement in school, work or community activities, and a demonstrated commitment to health and community service.
Executive Director of the African Leadership Centre, Shuvai Nyoni, described the programme as an example of how equitable partnerships between African institutions and global universities can expand educational opportunities and nurture future leaders.
Participants will receive academic support from tutors based in London and partner institutions across Africa through small-group tutorials, personalised feedback and ongoing mentoring. They will also have access to optional courses in digital skills, entrepreneurship and employability.
Coordinator of the ABC Continental Hub in Nairobi, Adeoti Dipeolu, said the strong interest shown by young people from Nigeria and other African countries highlights a growing desire among the continent’s youth to drive positive change within their communities.
Graduates of the programme will be positioned to progress to undergraduate studies, diploma and technical education programmes, health-sector employment opportunities and other professional development pathways, subject to the admission requirements of individual institutions.
To qualify, Nigerian applicants must have obtained at least a C6 grade in relevant subjects in either WAEC or NECO examinations, must not currently be enrolled in any higher education institution, and must have reliable access to a smartphone or computer with internet connectivity, as well as sufficient time to participate in weekly coursework.
The Afe Babalola Centre for Transnational Education was established in 2023 through funding from renowned Nigerian philanthropist and legal icon Afe Babalola. Based at King’s College London, the Centre collaborates with African universities, community organisations and government institutions to broaden access to education and equip young Africans with the skills and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to societal development.
