ZEANI National Scholarship Award 2026/2027 Opens for SS1/ SS2 and SSCE Holders; The Zion Empowerment Arena for the Needy Initiative (ZEANI) has announced the commencement of applications for its 2026/2027 National Scholarship Award (NSA).
The scholarship is open to Nigerian students in SS1, SS2, and SSCE holders who are interested in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Successful applicants will receive training in various vocational trades designed to equip them with practical skills for employment and career development.
About the ZEANI National Scholarship Award
The ZEANI National Scholarship Award is a skills acquisition programme organised by the Zion Empowerment Arena for the Needy Initiative on behalf of its Board of Trustees and development partners supporting its humanitarian and educational programmes.
The scholarship is designed to promote Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) among Nigerian youths.
Scholarship Location
The training programme will take place in Nsukka, Enugu State.
According to ZEANI, its approval number is CAC/IT/NO102538, while its designated centre code is 15160.
About ZEANI
Zion Empowerment Arena for the Needy Initiative is a registered non-profit and non-governmental organisation committed to providing vocational education and empowerment opportunities.
The organisation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) on 22 February 2024. The partnership creates opportunities for ZEANI trainees and university students to earn National Skill Qualifications, vocational certifications and degree qualifications after completing their programmes.
ZEANI also states that its qualifications can support employment opportunities and may provide a pathway for admission into universities at the first or second-year level without sitting for JAMB, subject to applicable institutional requirements.
ZEANI Training Background
According to the organisation, its Community Development Service Education (CDSE) programme is currently training 500 beneficiaries under the Federal Ministry of Education TVET Initiative through the IDEAS Project with support from the World Bank.
Since commencing operations in November 2017, ZEANI says it has graduated more than 1,000 trainees.
The organisation also states that it is regulated by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and has approval from both the Federal Ministry of Education and the Enugu State Ministry of Education to offer scholarship and non-scholarship TVET programmes at senior secondary and tertiary levels.
Available Trade Courses
Applicants can choose from any of the following vocational programmes:
- Fishery Craft
- Electrical Installation and Maintenance
- Motor Mechanic Work
- Computer Craft
- Electronics Works
- Catering Craft Practice
Candidates are advised to select a trade that aligns with their interests and career goals.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to Nigerian citizens who meet the stated eligibility requirements.
Applicants should possess:
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Bank Verification Number (BVN)
- An active bank account
The programme also accepts applicants who have completed senior secondary education.
ZEANI Scholarship Requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following conditions before applying:
- Must be a Nigerian citizen.
- Must have a valid NIN, BVN and bank account.
- Must have completed senior secondary education.
- Must be able to cover workplace maintenance costs.
- Must be able to pay for accommodation and certain living expenses.
- Must be able to provide personal protective equipment (PPE), uniforms and other practice materials where required.
- Must obtain a police clearance report.
- Must provide a parent or guardian’s undertaking.
- Must submit a medical report from any government hospital. Applicants may also use the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Medical Centre for this purpose.
- Must demonstrate commitment to practical training and examinations.
- Must participate in compulsory workplace assignments, assessments and classwork.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure they can meet these requirements before beginning the application process.
Duration of Training
The duration of the programme depends on the applicant’s educational qualification.
- Candidates who have completed senior secondary education will undergo one year of training leading to ANTC or ANBC certification.
- Candidates who have completed junior secondary education will undertake three years of training leading to NTC or NBC certification.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Free application
- Full tuition for one year
- Monthly stipend of ₦5,000 for one year
- Potential employment opportunities after graduation
Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is 31 August 2026.
Interested applicants are advised to complete their applications before the closing date.
How to Apply
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official ZEANI scholarship application portal.
Applicants who prefer a physical application can obtain the application form free of charge at the address below:
UC Network Plaza
2nd and 3rd Floor
No. 25 University Road
Nsukka Local Government Area
Opposite the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Main Gate
Enugu State
Documents Required for Physical Application
Applicants collecting the physical application form should come with:
- One passport photograph
- Photocopy of NIN card
- BVN details
- Bank account details
Please note that OPAY, PAMPAY and Moniepoint accounts are not accepted for the application.
Important Information for Applicants
Before applying, candidates should ensure they:
- Have valid NIN, BVN and acceptable bank account details.
- Can meet the personal costs associated with accommodation, workplace maintenance and training materials.
- Obtain the required police clearance certificate, medical report and parent or guardian’s undertaking.
- Select a vocational trade that aligns with their career aspirations.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the 31 August 2026 deadline to be considered for the 2026/2027 ZEANI National Scholarship Award.
