Nigerian Graduate Khadijat Sikirulahi Wins Prestigious Mastercard Scholarship to Study Forestry in Canada

Khadijat Sikirulahi, a University of Ibadan alumna, has earned a Mastercard Foundation Scholarship to pursue a Master of Sustainable Forest Management at the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada.

Her academic journey began with disappointment when she was admitted to study forestry instead of her preferred medicine course. This unexpected change initially affected her deeply, even impacting her health.

Despite multiple attempts to switch to medicine through re-examinations and applications to other universities, Khadijat did not succeed. Eventually, she embraced forestry, developing a strong passion for biodiversity and climate resilience by her second year.

After completing her undergraduate degree, Khadijat actively sought postgraduate opportunities abroad. Her determination paid off when she was selected as one of only 42 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from over 11,000 African applicants to join UBC’s master’s programme.

In a LinkedIn post, she expressed gratitude to her lecturers, family, and fellow scholars for their support during this transition.

Community Reactions

• Olatomide Ojajune applauded her resilience, sharing how Khadijat’s story resonated with his own shift from microbiology to forestry.
• Kehinde Yusuf highlighted the power of redirection, celebrating Khadijat’s success and new beginnings.
• Abdulmujeeb Adediran offered blessings and encouragement for the promising future ahead.

Khadijat’s experience serves as an inspiring example of perseverance and adaptability, illustrating how unexpected challenges can lead to fulfilling new paths.