Nigerian music star offers scholarships to young women at IUEA

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The Vice Chancellor of the Kansanga-based International University of East Africa (IUEA), Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, has applauded UK-based Afro-fusion artist Gabzy for his gesture of offering scholarships to disadvantaged young women in Uganda.

“Gabzy has gone a step further by giving scholarships to disadvantaged women, which shows his strong support for education,” Prof. Akaezuwa said on Friday after a brief one-on-one engagement with the artist.

“It does not matter which field the scholarship covers—what matters is that he is extending opportunities to those in need.” He added.

Prof. Akaezuwa stressed that IUEA values partnerships with individuals and organisations that share its mission of empowering students.

“We appreciate artists like him, and not just artists, but people who believe in education and provide scholarships to the needy,” he pointed.

The Vice Chancellor further highlighted the university’s growing reputation as a hub for both science and creativity. “IUEA is known for science and technology, but also for excellence in all disciplines. Last year, we launched a Faculty of Music, accredited by the National Council for Higher Education. We even hosted Davido a year ago, and now we are honoured to welcome Gabzy,” he said.

Prof. Akaezuwa noted that the university’s relationship with Gabzy is anchored in excellence and global influence. “Our partnership with him is a very good one. It is based on excellence, and the fact that he is known worldwide. As you can see from the response of our students—who come from all over the globe—his influence resonates with them,” he explained.

He emphasised that Gabzy’s decision to offer scholarships aligns perfectly with IUEA’s culture of giving back. “Giving back is one of our core values as a university. His presence here, his interaction with our students, and his support for women’s education all encourage them to be the best in what they do. Life is not one-sided—our students must appreciate technology and also the arts to be well-rounded,” Prof. Akaezuwa said.

The scholarships, which start with the August 2025 intake, will cover the full cost of tuition for any course offered at IUEA, a leading private university in Uganda known for its commitment to fostering innovation, academic excellence, and inclusivity.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Gabzy thanked Ugandan youth—particularly young women—for their overwhelming support and announced a scholarship initiative.

“I’m humbled by the love from the amazing young women in Uganda, I’m excited to offer full scholarships to two underprivileged but outstanding girls to pursue any course of their choice at @IUEA, beginning with the August intake,” he wrote.

Gabzy, born Gabriel Akinyemi, is an Afro-fusion musician who has gained international recognition. According to Prof. Akaezuwa, his decision to support IUEA stems from his early experiences in Uganda. “He loves Uganda because Uganda supported him when he was starting out, and now he is coming back to give back,” he noted.

Prof. Akaezuwa also pointed out that scholarships such as those offered by Gabzy are not only about financial support but also about inspiration. “We encourage our students not just to study to get jobs but to study to create and to be global leaders. When creators like Gabzy share their journey, it inspires our students to ask themselves—what am I going to create as an engineer, lawyer, or entrepreneur? That spirit of innovation is what we are nurturing here at IUEA,” he said.